Isaiah 11:14

KJV

But they shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west; they shall spoil them of the east together: they shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab; and the children of Ammon shall obey them.

KJV (with Strong's)

But they shall fly {H5774} upon the shoulders {H3802} of the Philistines {H6430} toward the west {H3220}; they shall spoil {H962} them {H1121} of the east {H6924} together {H3162}: they shall lay {H4916} their hand {H3027} upon Edom {H123} and Moab {H4124}; and the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983} shall obey {H4928} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will swoop down on the flank of the P'lishtim to the west. Together they will pillage the people to the east - they will put out their hand over Edom and Mo'av, and the people of 'Amon will obey them.

Berean Standard Bible

They will swoop down on the slopes of the Philistines to the west; together they will plunder the sons of the east. They will lay their hands on Edom and Moab, and the Ammonites will be subject to them.

American Standard Version

And they shall fly down upon the shoulder of the Philistines on the west; together shall they despoil the children of the east: they shall put forth their hand upon Edom and Moab; and the children of Ammon shall obey them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 11:14 vividly portrays the future restoration and triumph of Israel under the reign of the Messiah, detailing their decisive victory and dominion over long-standing historical adversaries. This prophetic declaration illustrates a reversal of fortunes, where the scattered remnant of God's people, unified and empowered, will exert authority over nations that once oppressed them, securing their borders and establishing an era of peace and sovereignty within the Messianic kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 11:14 is situated within a profound prophetic section (Isaiah 11:1-16) that shifts from the immediate judgment of Judah and Jerusalem to a glorious vision of future redemption. The preceding verses (Isaiah 11:1-10) introduce the "Rod of Jesse," the Messiah, describing His righteous character, Spirit-empowered rule, and the resultant universal peace that will characterize His kingdom, even among animals. Verses 11-12 then pivot to the re-gathering of the remnant of Israel from all corners of the earth, emphasizing God's second act of restoration. Verse 13 speaks of the cessation of rivalry between Judah and Ephraim, signifying a unified Israel. Thus, verse 14 logically follows, detailing the unified Israel's dominion over their historical enemies as a direct consequence and feature of this restored, Messianic era, leading into the imagery of a highway for the remnant in verses 15-16.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for this prophecy is the period of Israel's division and eventual exile, particularly the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. For centuries, Israel and Judah faced constant threats and often subjugation from surrounding nations. The Philistines, located to the west along the Mediterranean coast, were perennial adversaries from the time of the Judges through the monarchy, often raiding and occupying Israelite territory (e.g., [1 Samuel 13:19-22](/1_samuel/13-19 "1 Samuel 13:19-22 - Philistine Oppression")). Edom, Moab, and Ammon, situated to the east and south-east of Israel, were kindred nations (descended from Esau and Lot, respectively) but frequently hostile, engaging in conflict and often participating in the oppression of Israel (e.g., [2 Chronicles 20:1-30](/2_chronicles/20 "2 Chronicles 20 - Jehoshaphat's Victory Over Moab and Ammon")). This verse, therefore, speaks to a future where the tables are turned, and Israel, no longer a subjugated people, will assert its dominance over these long-standing foes, a deeply significant reversal for a people accustomed to foreign oppression.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in Isaiah and broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Restoration and Re-gathering**, emphasizing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, Israel, by bringing them back from dispersion and establishing them in strength (as seen in [Jeremiah 30:3](/jeremiah/30-3 "Jeremiah 30:3 - Restoration of Jacob's Captivity") and [Ezekiel 37:21](/ezekiel/37-21 "Ezekiel 37:21 - Re-gathering of Israel")). Secondly, it vividly portrays **Triumph Over Adversaries**, a consistent motif in biblical prophecy where God's people ultimately prevail over their enemies, demonstrating God's sovereignty and justice (e.g., [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord's Anointed")). Thirdly, the imagery suggests **Unity and Purpose** within Israel, as the formerly divided kingdoms of Judah and Ephraim (implied by [Isaiah 11:13](/isaiah/11-13 "Isaiah 11:13 - Unity of Judah and Ephraim")) act in concert to secure their borders and influence. Finally, this subjugation of enemies is intrinsically linked to the **Messianic Kingdom Fulfillment**, where the peace and righteousness of the Messiah's rule extend to geopolitical dominance, ensuring the security and flourishing of His kingdom on earth, as prophesied in passages like [Isaiah 9:7](/isaiah/9-7 "Isaiah 9:7 - The Increase of Christ's Government").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fly (Hebrew, _ʻûwph'_):** From H5774, a primitive root meaning "to cover (with wings or obscurity); hence (as denominative from עוֹף); to fly." In this context, "fly upon" suggests swift, sudden, and overwhelming action, akin to a bird of prey swooping down. It conveys a sense of rapid, decisive movement and superior position, indicating that Israel's triumph will be swift and complete, taking their adversaries by surprise and from a position of power.
* **spoil (Hebrew, _bâzaz'_):** From H962, a primitive root meaning "to plunder." This term signifies the act of taking possessions, goods, or resources from a defeated enemy. It highlights the complete subjugation of the eastern adversaries, indicating not only their military defeat but also the appropriation of their wealth and resources by the victorious Israelites, a common practice in ancient warfare that demonstrated absolute conquest.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** From H3027, a primitive word referring to "a hand (the open one (indicating power, means, direction, etc.))." "Lay their hand upon" is a common idiom in Hebrew for exerting authority, taking control, or subjugating. It denotes the exercise of power and dominion, signifying that Edom and Moab will be brought under Israel's direct and firm control, losing their autonomy and becoming subject to the restored nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But they shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west;":** This clause introduces a dramatic shift, emphasizing a swift and dominant offensive. "They" refers to the unified, restored Israel. The imagery of "flying upon the shoulders" is a powerful metaphor for rapid, overwhelming conquest and control. It suggests a complete reversal of roles, where Israel, once oppressed by the Philistines (who inhabited the western coastal plain), will now dominate them from a position of superiority and swiftness. "Toward the west" specifically identifies the geographical direction of this conquest.
* **"they shall spoil them of the east together:":** Following the western conquest, the prophecy turns to the eastern adversaries. "Spoil" means to plunder or take possessions from the vanquished. "Them of the east" refers to nations or peoples situated to Israel's east, often nomadic tribes or other kingdoms. The word "together" (H3162, _yachad_) emphasizes the unified action of the restored Israel in this comprehensive campaign, indicating that no enemy, regardless of direction, will escape their collective might.
* **"they shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab;":** This clause specifies two prominent southern and eastern neighbors of Israel. "To lay their hand upon" is an idiom signifying the exercise of authority, control, or subjugation. Edom and Moab were historical enemies who often harassed Israel. This phrase indicates a complete dominion over these nations, bringing them under Israel's direct sphere of influence and control, ending their independent hostility.
* **"and the children of Ammon shall obey them.":** This final clause explicitly states the outcome for the Ammonites, another traditional enemy located to Israel's east. "The children of Ammon" (H1121, _bên_ and H5983, _ʻAmmôwn_) refers to the Ammonite people. "Shall obey them" (H4928, _mishmaʻath_) directly declares their submission and compliance, signifying that they will no longer pose a threat but will be subject to the authority of the restored Israel.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 11:14 employs several potent literary devices to convey its prophetic message. The most prominent is **Metaphor** and **Imagery**, particularly in the phrase "fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines." This vivid image suggests swift, decisive, and overwhelming dominance, akin to a bird of prey swooping down or a victor asserting control from a position of superiority, rather than a literal act of flight. This imagery underscores the complete reversal of power dynamics. The verse also utilizes **Synecdoche** by using "hand" ("lay their hand upon") to represent the full power and authority of Israel. Furthermore, the enumeration of specific geographical directions ("toward the west," "of the east") and named nations (Philistines, Edom, Moab, Ammon) serves as **Geographical Enumeration**, providing concrete details that ground the prophecy in the known world of the audience, making the future triumph tangible and specific. Overall, the verse functions as a **Prophecy**, foretelling a future geopolitical reality under the Messianic reign, filled with **Hyperbole** to emphasize the totality of Israel's future dominion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 11:14 stands as a powerful testament to God's ultimate sovereignty and His faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly concerning the restoration and exaltation of His people, Israel. It underscores the biblical truth that God's redemptive plan encompasses not only spiritual renewal but also the establishment of His kingdom's authority and peace in the physical realm. This victory over historical adversaries is not merely a geopolitical event but a divine act that secures the Messianic kingdom, demonstrating that under the Messiah's righteous rule, all opposition will be subdued, and His people will dwell in security and dominion. It speaks to a future where divine justice is fully realized, and the long-suffering people of God are finally vindicated and established in strength.

* [Jeremiah 30:3](/jeremiah/30-3 "Jeremiah 30:3 - The Lord will restore the fortunes of His people")
* [Ezekiel 37:21](/ezekiel/37-21 "Ezekiel 37:21 - I will gather them from every side and bring them back into their own land")
* [Psalm 110:1](/psalm/110-1 "Psalm 110:1 - The Lord says to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Isaiah 11:14 describes a specific future geopolitical reality for the nation of Israel, its underlying principles offer profound spiritual and practical applications for believers today. It serves as a potent reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even those that seem distant or impossible from a human perspective. This passage encourages us to trust in God's long-term plan for ultimate justice and triumph, providing immense hope in times of personal struggle, oppression, or apparent defeat. It points to a future where righteousness will ultimately prevail and all forms of spiritual and physical opposition to God's kingdom will be decisively overcome. This vision of the Messiah's complete and secure reign inspires us to live with confident expectation, knowing that our King is victorious and His kingdom will ultimately bring perfect peace and order. We are called to participate in this unfolding reality by living out the values of His kingdom now, trusting that our present struggles are temporary in light of His ultimate victory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of Israel's ultimate triumph over its enemies encourage your faith in God's faithfulness to His promises in your own life?**
* **In what ways can the imagery of "flying upon the shoulders" or "laying hand upon" be understood metaphorically in the context of spiritual warfare or overcoming personal challenges?**
* **How does the vision of a unified Israel in this prophecy inform your understanding of unity within the body of Christ today?**
* **What hope does the ultimate establishment of the Messiah's kingdom, as described here, offer you in a world still marked by conflict and injustice?**

### FAQ

**Who are "they" in Isaiah 11:14, and is this prophecy literal or symbolic?**

Answer: "They" refers to the restored and unified remnant of Israel, encompassing both Judah and Ephraim, as indicated in the preceding verse ([Isaiah 11:13](/isaiah/11-13 "Isaiah 11:13 - The Envy of Ephraim Shall Depart")). The prophecy describes a future state where God's people, gathered from dispersion, will exert dominion over their historical adversaries. While the language employs vivid imagery ("fly upon the shoulders," "spoil"), the prophecy is generally understood to have a literal fulfillment in the eschatological (end-times) establishment of the Messiah's kingdom on earth, where Israel will indeed be restored to a position of prominence and security. However, like many Old Testament prophecies, it also carries spiritual implications, pointing to the ultimate triumph of God's people (the Church) over spiritual enemies through Christ.

**How does the subjugation of these nations relate to the peaceful kingdom described earlier in Isaiah 11?**

Answer: The subjugation of these nations in Isaiah 11:14 is an integral part of the peaceful Messianic kingdom described in Isaiah 11:1-10. The peace envisioned in the earlier verses (e.g., [Isaiah 11:6-9](/isaiah/11-6 "Isaiah 11:6-9 - The Wolf and the Lamb Shall Dwell Together")) primarily concerns internal harmony within the kingdom and the natural world. However, true peace and security for Israel in the ancient world, and indeed for any nation, often required the neutralization of external threats. Therefore, the dominion over the Philistines, Edom, Moab, and Ammon is not a contradiction but a necessary prerequisite for the secure and unthreatened peace of the Messiah's reign. It signifies that all opposition to His righteous rule will be decisively overcome, ensuring the stability and flourishing of His kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Isaiah 11:14 speaks of a literal, geopolitical triumph for the restored nation of Israel, its ultimate and profound Christ-centered fulfillment is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. He is the "Rod of Jesse" ([Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Rod of Jesse")), upon whose "shoulder the government shall be" ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Unto Us a Child Is Born")). Christ's victory is not merely over earthly nations but over the cosmic powers of sin, death, and Satan, who are the true spiritual adversaries of humanity. Through His atoning death and glorious resurrection, Jesus has definitively "spoiled principalities and powers" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Powers and Authorities")), disarming them and leading them in triumph. The "flying upon the shoulders" of enemies finds its spiritual echo in Christ's swift and decisive defeat of spiritual opposition, establishing His dominion. The "laying hand upon" and the "obedience" of nations are fulfilled in the universal authority granted to Christ, to whom "all authority in heaven and on earth has been given" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), and before whom "every knee should bow" ([Philippians 2:10](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). The Church, as the spiritual Israel, participates in this Christ-won victory, exercising spiritual authority in His name, knowing that through Him, we are more than conquerors ([Romans 8:37](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors Through Him")). Ultimately, this prophecy points to the complete and secure reign of Christ, where all enemies will be put under His feet, culminating in the eternal peace of His kingdom ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - He Must Reign Until He Has Put All His Enemies Under His Feet")).

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

Joel 3:19

Egypt shall be a desolation, and Edom shall be a desolate wilderness, for the violence [against] the children of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land.

Isaiah 25:10

For in this mountain shall the hand of the LORD rest, and Moab shall be trodden down under him, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill.

Jeremiah 49:28

¶ Concerning Kedar, and concerning the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon shall smite, thus saith the LORD; Arise ye, go up to Kedar, and spoil the men of the east.

Daniel 11:41

He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many [countries] shall be overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, [even] Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.

Amos 9:12

That they may possess the remnant of Edom, and of all the heathen, which are called by my name, saith the LORD that doeth this.

Isaiah 33:1

¶ Woe to thee that spoilest, and thou [wast] not spoiled; and dealest treacherously, and they dealt not treacherously with thee! when thou shalt cease to spoil, thou shalt be spoiled; [and] when thou shalt make an end to deal treacherously, they shall deal treacherously with thee.

Isaiah 34:5

For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down upon Idumea, and upon the people of my curse, to judgment.