Isaiah 10:23

For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.

For the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} of hosts {H6635} shall make {H6213} a consumption {H3617}, even determined {H2782}, in the midst {H7130} of all the land {H776}.

Adonai ELOHIM-Tzva'ot will bring about this decreed destruction throughout all the land.

For the Lord GOD of Hosts will carry out the destruction decreed upon the whole land.

For a full end, and that determined, will the Lord, Jehovah of hosts, make in the midst of all the earth.

Commentary

Context of Isaiah 10:23

Isaiah 10 falls within a section of the prophet's writings addressing God's judgment, particularly His use of Assyria as a "rod" to punish unrighteous nations, including Judah. While Assyria is presented as God's instrument, the chapter also warns that Assyria itself will face judgment for its arrogance. Verses 20-23 specifically pivot to the fate of Israel/Judah, revealing that despite their multitude, only a remnant will return, and a severe, decisive judgment is decreed for the land. Verse 23 reinforces the certainty and finality of this divine decree.

Meaning of "Consumption, Even Determined"

The phrase "consumption" (Hebrew: kalah) signifies a complete end, a decisive work, or a sweeping destruction. It implies a thorough and inescapable judgment. The addition of "even determined" (Hebrew: necheratz) emphasizes that this judgment is not random or contingent but divinely decreed, fixed, and irreversible. It is a final, certain act of God's justice that will take place "in the midst of all the land," meaning it will affect the entire nation of Judah, not just a part.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty and Judgment: This verse powerfully asserts God's absolute control over history and nations. The title "Lord GOD of hosts" (YHWH Sebaoth) underscores His supreme authority as the commander of heavenly and earthly powers, ensuring His decrees are carried out with precision.
  • Righteousness of God: The "consumption" is not arbitrary but a righteous judgment against the sin and rebellion of the people. It is a necessary act to uphold God's holiness and justice.
  • The Remnant: While Isaiah 10:23 focuses on the severity of the judgment, it is crucial to read it in conjunction with the preceding verse, Isaiah 10:22, which introduces the concept of a "remnant" who will return. This highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, preserving a faithful few even amidst widespread judgment.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "consumption," kalah (ื›ึธึผืœึธื”), carries the sense of completion, termination, or utter destruction. It is often used in contexts of divine judgment where something is brought to an end. The term "determined," necheratz (ื ึถื—ึฑืจึธืฅ), means something that is cut off, decided, or decreed. It conveys the irreversible and decisive nature of God's plan, emphasizing His unwavering resolve.

Related Scriptures

The profound truth of Isaiah 10:23, particularly concerning God's sovereign judgment and the salvation of a remnant, was so significant that the Apostle Paul quotes it directly in Romans 9:28. Paul uses this passage to explain God's sovereign choice in salvation, showing how God's plan includes both judgment and the preservation of a chosen few, fulfilling His righteous purposes.

Practical Application

Isaiah 10:23 serves as a timeless reminder of God's unchanging character: He is both merciful and just. It teaches us that God's prophetic word is certain and will inevitably come to pass. For believers today, this verse encourages a healthy fear of God's holiness and a commitment to living righteously, knowing that His ultimate purposes will prevail. It underscores the importance of repentance and seeking God, as His "determined consumption" against sin is a reality, yet His grace also offers a way of escape for those who turn to Him.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 28:22

    Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.

  • Isaiah 14:26

    This [is] the purpose that is purposed upon the whole earth: and this [is] the hand that is stretched out upon all the nations.

  • Isaiah 14:27

    For the LORD of hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul [it]? and his hand [is] stretched out, and who shall turn it back?

  • Daniel 4:35

    And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

  • Romans 9:28

    For he will finish the work, and cut [it] short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth.

  • Isaiah 24:1

    ยถ Behold, the LORD maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabitants thereof.

  • Isaiah 24:23

    Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.
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