Isaiah 10:28

KJV

He is come to Aiath, he is passed to Migron; at Michmash he hath laid up his carriages:

KJV (with Strong's)

He is come {H935} to Aiath {H5857}, he is passed {H5674} to Migron {H4051}; at Michmash {H4363} he hath laid up {H6485} his carriages {H3627}:

Complete Jewish Bible

He has come to 'Ayat and passed through Migron. He has stored his equipment at Mikhmas.

Berean Standard Bible

Assyria has entered Aiath and passed through Migron, storing their supplies at Michmash.

American Standard Version

He is come to Aiath, he is passed through Migron; at Michmash he layeth up his baggage;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 10:28 offers a chillingly precise and geographically detailed snapshot of the Assyrian army's relentless and methodical advance toward Jerusalem. This verse, embedded within a larger prophetic oracle, meticulously charts the specific waypoints—Aiath, Migron, and Michmash—along their northern invasion route, culminating in a strategic halt at Michmash where they consolidate their equipment and supplies. It vividly portrays the imminent and tangible threat to Judah's capital, underscoring both the terrifying proximity of the enemy and the meticulous precision of divine prophecy concerning the impending judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 10:28 is a pivotal point within a significant prophetic oracle (Isaiah 10:5-34) that masterfully weaves together themes of divine judgment, Assyrian arrogance, and ultimate divine deliverance. The preceding verses (Isaiah 10:24-27) provide a crucial counterpoint, offering a word of comfort and assurance that God's people will not be utterly destroyed, and that the oppressive Assyrian "yoke" will eventually be shattered. Immediately following this verse, Isaiah 10:29-32 continues the vivid description of the Assyrian march, listing even more towns in rapid succession, building suspense and emphasizing the enemy's terrifying proximity to Jerusalem. This sequence of place names functions as a prophetic "travelogue," designed to impress upon the Judeans the terrifying reality of the approaching invasion, making the abstract threat concrete and immediate.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Isaiah 10 directly anticipates the historical invasion of Judah by the formidable Assyrian king Sennacherib in 701 BC, during the reign of King Hezekiah. This historical event is extensively documented in biblical accounts such as [2 Kings 18:13-19:37](/2_kings/18-13-37 "2 Kings 18:13-19:37 - Sennacherib's Invasion of Judah") and [Isaiah 36-37](/isaiah/36 "Isaiah 36-37 - Sennacherib's Invasion and Jerusalem's Deliverance"). The places mentioned—Aiath (likely Ai), Migron, and Michmash—are all strategically located in the tribal territory of Benjamin, just a few miles north of Jerusalem. This northern approach was a common invasion route due to its terrain, which allowed for the movement of large armies and their cumbersome equipment. Michmash, in particular, was a highly significant strategic location, known for its deep wadis and rugged hills, making it a natural place for an army to pause, regroup, and secure its supplies before the final, arduous push towards the capital. The "carriages" (Hebrew: *keli*) would have referred to the army's heavy baggage, supplies, and siege equipment, which would be cumbersome and require careful management in such difficult terrain.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment**, as the Assyrian army, despite its formidable power and human ambition, is merely an instrument in God's hand, a "rod of my anger" ([Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod of Judgment")), used to discipline His disobedient people. Secondly, it underscores **Prophetic Accuracy and Divine Omniscience**, demonstrating God's precise foreknowledge of future events, down to the specific movements of an invading army and their strategic halts. This granular precision serves to validate Isaiah's prophetic word and God's absolute control over history, reinforcing His ultimate authority. Finally, it sets the stage for the theme of **Divine Deliverance**, as the very imminence of the threat, vividly portrayed here, makes God's subsequent miraculous intervention and the ultimate defeat of Assyria (foreshadowed in [Isaiah 10:12](/isaiah/10-12 "Isaiah 10:12 - God's Judgment on Assyria's Pride") and dramatically fulfilled in [Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Angel of the Lord Strikes the Assyrian Camp")) all the more profound and awe-inspiring, showcasing His faithfulness to His covenant people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **carriages (Hebrew, _kᵉlîy'_):** (H3627) From the root *kalah*, meaning "to complete" or "to finish," this term refers to "something prepared," encompassing any apparatus, implement, utensil, dress, vessel, or weapon. In a military context, as here, it broadly refers to all the necessary equipment, baggage, supplies, and heavy gear an army would carry, including siege engines, provisions, or personal effects. The KJV's "carriages" is an archaic rendering that can be misleading to modern readers, as it does not imply wheeled vehicles but rather the collective "stuff" or "impedimenta" of an army. The act of "laying up" these *keli* suggests a strategic action—either securing them in a fortified position, offloading them to lighten the march, or preparing them for imminent use in a siege.
* **passed (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** (H5674) A primitive root meaning "to cross over," used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative). Here, it vividly describes the continuous, unhindered movement of the Assyrian army from one geographical point to the next. The repetition of this concept, alongside "is come" (from H935, *bôwʼ*, "to go or come"), emphasizes the relentless, unstoppable momentum of the invasion, highlighting the speed and determination of the advancing forces as they traverse the landscape, leaving no doubt as to their steady approach.
* **laid up (Hebrew, _pâqad'_):** (H6485) A primitive root meaning "to visit" (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, "to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit," etc. In this context, "laid up" signifies the deliberate act of depositing, securing, or taking charge of the "carriages" or equipment. It implies a strategic pause where the army consolidates its resources, perhaps establishing a temporary base, preparing for the final assault, or organizing their heavy gear for the difficult terrain ahead. This action at Michmash underscores the methodical and organized nature of the Assyrian advance, not a haphazard rush, indicating a calculated and imminent threat.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He is come to Aiath,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the subject as the invading Assyrian king (Sennacherib, though unnamed, is the implied agent) and his formidable army. "Aiath" (likely the biblical Ai) is the first named waypoint, a town situated just north of Jerusalem. The use of "is come" (a perfect tense in Hebrew, indicating a completed action) conveys the certainty and immediacy of their arrival, as if the prophet is observing it in real-time. It marks the precise beginning of the detailed geographical progression of the invasion.
* **"he is passed to Migron;"**: Following swiftly, the army moves from Aiath to Migron. The verb "is passed" reinforces the continuous, unhindered, and rapid nature of their advance. Migron is another location in the Benjaminite territory, situated further south towards Jerusalem. The rapid succession of these place names, presented as accomplished facts, creates a palpable sense of escalating tension and impending doom, indicating that the enemy is drawing ever closer to the capital with frightening speed and efficiency.
* **"at Michmash he hath laid up his carriages:"**: This final clause describes a significant and strategic action at Michmash, a key strategic point known for its rugged terrain and defensive advantages. The phrase "hath laid up his carriages" (referring to their military equipment and supplies, not modern vehicles) indicates a deliberate, strategic halt. This pause is not a retreat or hesitation but a methodical consolidation of resources, perhaps to lighten the load for the rugged approach to Jerusalem, to prepare for a siege, or to establish a forward operating base. It signals that the Assyrian army is not only close but is also preparing for the final, decisive phase of its assault on Jerusalem, making the threat profoundly tangible, immediate, and meticulously planned.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 10:28 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its urgent and ominous message. **Imagery** is central, painting a vivid mental picture of the Assyrian army's relentless march and strategic preparations. The rapid succession of geographical place names—Aiath, Migron, Michmash—creates a sense of **Pacing** and **Urgency**, mimicking the swift and unstoppable advance of the invading force, making the threat feel immediate and inescapable. This **Geographical Specificity** also lends an air of stark realism and undeniable authenticity to the prophecy, grounding the divine word in the tangible landscape familiar to the original audience. The repeated structure "He is come... he is passed..." functions as a form of **Anaphora** (or at least a strong thematic repetition of the subject's actions), emphasizing the continuous, methodical, and seemingly inevitable progression of the enemy. Finally, the entire passage serves as potent **Foreshadowing**, building intense suspense for the climactic confrontation with Jerusalem and setting the dramatic stage for God's subsequent, miraculous intervention.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 10:28, though a seemingly simple geographical description, is laden with profound theological implications. It powerfully illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and historical events. The Assyrian army, despite its overwhelming might, human agency, and arrogant self-will, is depicted not as an independent force but as a precisely directed instrument in the divine hand, meticulously guided by God's prophetic word. This verse demonstrates that even the most terrifying and seemingly unstoppable threats are ultimately within the purview of God's plan, serving His purposes of judgment and purification for His disobedient people. It underscores that God's knowledge is not merely general but extends to the precise details of human history, down to the specific movements of armies and the strategic decisions of kings. This precision should instill both awe at God's omniscience and a deep trust in His ultimate control, even when circumstances appear dire and overwhelming. The detailed account of the enemy's advance serves to magnify the glory of God's eventual, miraculous deliverance.

* [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod of Judgment"): "Woe to the Assyrian, the rod of my anger; in whose hand is the club of my wrath!"
* [2 Kings 18:13](/2_kings/18-13 "2 Kings 18:13 - Sennacherib's Invasion of Judah"): "Now in the fourteenth year of king Hezekiah did Sennacherib king of Assyria come up against all the fenced cities of Judah, and took them."
* [Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Lord's Angel Strikes the Assyrian Camp"): "Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 10:28, by vividly portraying an imminent and overwhelming threat, speaks powerfully to the human experience of facing daunting challenges and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It reminds us that life often presents situations where danger seems close, resources are consolidated against us, and the path ahead appears fraught with peril. In such moments, this verse calls us to remember God's absolute sovereignty and meticulous providence. Just as God knew every step of the Assyrian advance and had a precise plan for Judah's eventual deliverance, so too does He oversee every detail of our lives. We are encouraged to cultivate a deep and unwavering trust in His providence, understanding that even the most formidable "enemies" or "crises" are ultimately subject to His will and can be used to refine our faith, demonstrate His power, or accomplish His divine purposes. This passage challenges us to move beyond paralyzing fear and anxiety, anchoring our hope in the God who orchestrates history and delivers His people, often in ways far beyond human expectation or capability. It invites us to pray for discernment to recognize His hand in our trials and to rest in the profound assurance that His ultimate purposes will prevail, bringing about His glory and our good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the detailed geographical description in this verse impact your understanding of God's omniscience and His meticulous control over historical events?**
* **In what areas of your life do you currently feel an "imminent threat" or overwhelming pressure, and how might remembering God's sovereignty in Isaiah 10:28 encourage you to trust in His providence?**
* **What "carriages" or burdens might you need to "lay up" (release, surrender, or entrust to God) in preparation for a spiritual battle or a new, challenging phase of your journey, knowing He is in control?**

### FAQ
**What does "laid up his carriages" mean in this context?**

Answer: The King James Version's phrase "laid up his carriages" in Isaiah 10:28 can be misleading to modern readers due to the archaic meaning of "carriages." The Hebrew word `kᵉlîy` (H3627), translated as "carriages," refers not to wheeled vehicles in the modern sense, but rather to an army's general equipment, baggage, supplies, weapons, or heavy gear—essentially, all its "impedimenta." Therefore, "he hath laid up his carriages" means that the Assyrian army strategically deposited, secured, or organized its heavy equipment at Michmash. This action suggests a deliberate pause to consolidate resources, perhaps to lighten the load for navigating difficult terrain, or to prepare for the final assault on Jerusalem, indicating a methodical and organized advance rather than a hasty one. This strategic move highlights the imminent and calculated nature of the threat, as the enemy prepares for the decisive engagement.

**Why are specific place names like Aiath, Migron, and Michmash mentioned?**

Answer: The mention of specific geographical locations—Aiath (Ai), Migron, and Michmash—serves several crucial purposes in Isaiah's prophecy. Firstly, it adds a chilling sense of realism and immediacy to the impending invasion for the original audience in Judah. These were recognizable towns just north of Jerusalem, making the threat tangible and undeniably close. Secondly, it underscores the remarkable **prophetic accuracy** of Isaiah's message, demonstrating God's precise foreknowledge of the Assyrian invasion route and even their strategic movements. This level of detail validates the divine origin of the prophecy and reinforces God's absolute control over history. Finally, it builds suspense and emphasizes the relentless, methodical advance of the Assyrian army, highlighting their proximity to the capital and the escalating danger to Jerusalem, as further detailed in [Isaiah 10:29-32](/isaiah/10-29-32 "Isaiah 10:29-32 - The Assyrian March Continues Towards Jerusalem").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Isaiah 10:28 describes a literal historical invasion and a physical threat to Judah, its deeper theological currents find profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the grand narrative of salvation. The terrifying advance of the Assyrian army, an instrument of divine judgment against a rebellious people, foreshadows the ultimate spiritual battle and the ultimate deliverer. Just as ancient Judah faced an overwhelming physical threat from a formidable earthly foe, humanity faces an even greater spiritual enemy: sin and death, whose relentless advance leads to spiritual bondage and eternal separation from God. Yet, in Christ, we find the true and eternal fulfillment of divine deliverance. He is the ultimate Lamb of God, who, unlike the temporary reprieve granted to Jerusalem from Sennacherib's forces ([Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Angel of the Lord Strikes the Assyrian Camp")), offers an eternal victory over sin and its devastating consequences. The strategic pause of the Assyrians at Michmash, preparing for a final assault, can be seen as a shadow of the enemy's attempts to consolidate power against God's people. However, Christ's victory on the cross definitively disarmed the spiritual principalities and powers, triumphing over them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). He is the King who ultimately establishes His kingdom, not through earthly military might, but through self-sacrificial love, resurrection power, and the offering of a peace that surpasses all understanding ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). His coming marked the decisive turning point in the cosmic battle, ensuring that though spiritual battles may still rage, the ultimate and eternal victory belongs to Him, and all who are in Him are more than conquerors through His love ([Romans 8:37-39](/romans/8-37-39 "Romans 8:37-39 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 14:2

And Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which [is] in Migron: and the people that [were] with him [were] about six hundred men;

1 Samuel 13:2

Saul chose him three thousand [men] of Israel; [whereof] two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

1 Samuel 13:5

And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which [is] on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from Bethaven.

1 Samuel 14:31

And they smote the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon: and the people were very faint.

Nehemiah 11:31

The children also of Benjamin from Geba [dwelt] at Michmash, and Aija, and Bethel, and [in] their villages,

Judges 18:21

So they turned and departed, and put the little ones and the cattle and the carriage before them.

Joshua 7:2

And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which [is] beside Bethaven, on the east side of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai.