Isaiah 13:7

KJV

Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man's heart shall melt:

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore shall all hands {H3027} be faint {H7503}, and every man's {H582} heart {H3824} shall melt {H4549}:

Complete Jewish Bible

This is why every arm will hang limp and everyone's courage melt away.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore all hands will fall limp, and every man’s heart will melt.

American Standard Version

Therefore shall all hands be feeble, and every heart of man shall melt:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 13:7 vividly portrays the profound psychological and physical paralysis that will grip the inhabitants of Babylon during the "Day of the Lord," a time of devastating divine judgment. The verse depicts a universal collapse of courage and strength, where hands are rendered useless and hearts dissolve in terror, signifying the utter helplessness of even a mighty empire when confronted by the sovereign wrath of God. This imagery underscores the inescapable nature of the impending doom and the futility of human power in the face of divine decree.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 13:7 is embedded within a prophetic oracle, explicitly introduced as "the burden of Babylon" in [Isaiah 13:1](/isaiah/13-1 "Isaiah 13:1 - The Prophecy Against Babylon"). This chapter initiates a series of oracles against various nations, emphasizing God's universal sovereignty over all peoples. The preceding verses (e.g., [Isaiah 13:2-5](/isaiah/13-2 "Isaiah 13:2-5 - God Mustering Armies")) describe God mustering a fearsome, divinely appointed army from distant lands to execute His judgment upon Babylon. The imagery escalates from the gathering of troops to the earth trembling and the heavens darkening, setting a cosmic stage for the impending catastrophe. Verse 7 specifically hones in on the internal, human response to this overwhelming external force, detailing the psychological and physical breakdown of those facing judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Babylon, at the time of Isaiah's prophecy, was a rising power, though its full imperial might under Nebuchadnezzar II was yet to come. However, its reputation for pride, idolatry, and oppressive conquest was already established. The prophecy anticipates its eventual downfall, a significant historical event that would later be fulfilled by the Medes and Persians (cf. [Daniel 5](/daniel/5 "Daniel 5 - The Fall of Babylon")). Culturally, ancient Near Eastern warfare often involved psychological tactics, and the description of "faint hands" and "melting hearts" would have resonated deeply with the experience of a besieged or defeated populace, whose morale was as crucial as their physical defenses. The imagery speaks to a complete loss of resolve and the inability to fight or flee, a common outcome for those facing a superior, terrifying force.
* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and broader prophetic literature. It highlights **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**, demonstrating that no earthly empire, regardless of its might or perceived invincibility, is beyond the reach of God's righteous wrath. Babylon's pride and oppression, often seen in passages like [Isaiah 14](/isaiah/14 "Isaiah 14 - Taunt Against Babylon"), are met with an inescapable divine reckoning. Furthermore, it underscores **Human Helplessness** in the face of divine power; all human strength, military prowess, and self-reliance are utterly futile when God acts. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, reminding humanity that true security and deliverance come from God alone, not from earthly defenses or alliances, as seen in [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16 "Psalm 33:16-17 - No King Saved by Multitude of Host"). Finally, the imagery of fear and despair emphasizes the **Consequences of Sin and Rebellion**, illustrating the terrifying spiritual and psychological toll exacted by unrepentant defiance against the Creator.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hands (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** This primitive word refers to the hand, often the open one, and is used in a vast array of applications, both literally and figuratively. In this context, "hands" (H3027) symbolize strength, capability, and the means to act or defend oneself. When hands are "faint," it signifies a complete loss of power, an inability to wield weapons, perform tasks, or offer resistance, indicating utter paralysis and helplessness.
* **faint (Hebrew, _râphâh'_):** This primitive root (H7503) means "to slacken," "to sink down," "to grow weak," or "to become feeble." It implies a loss of resolve, energy, and physical strength. When hands become "faint," it is not merely tiredness but a profound, debilitating weakness that renders one incapable of action, directly linked to the overwhelming fear and despair described in the verse.
* **melt (Hebrew, _mâçaç'_):** This primitive root (H4549) signifies "to liquefy," "to dissolve," or figuratively, "to waste away" or "to faint" from fatigue, fear, or grief. The imagery of the heart "melting" is a powerful metaphor for extreme terror, demoralization, and a complete loss of courage and inner fortitude. It suggests a profound emotional and psychological collapse, where the very core of one's being turns to water, leaving one utterly vulnerable and without resolve.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore shall all hands be faint,"**: This clause describes a physical manifestation of terror and despair. The word "all" emphasizes the universality of this experience among the inhabitants of Babylon. Their hands, which represent strength, labor, and the ability to fight or defend, become utterly useless. This signifies a complete loss of physical and mental resolve, rendering them incapable of any action, whether in defense, flight, or resistance. The "faintness" is a direct consequence of the overwhelming and inescapable judgment descending upon them.
* **"and every man's heart shall melt:"**: This second clause parallels and intensifies the first, focusing on the internal, emotional, and psychological impact. "Every man's" reiterates the widespread nature of this terror. The "heart" (Hebrew, _lêbâb'_ - H3824) is understood as the seat of courage, will, and intellect. For the heart to "melt" is a vivid metaphor for extreme fear, demoralization, and a complete loss of courage and hope. It paints a picture of utter emotional disintegration, leaving individuals paralyzed by terror and despair, unable to think clearly or act decisively.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 13:7 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message of impending doom. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrases "all hands" and "every man's heart," emphasizing the universal and overwhelming nature of the terror that will grip Babylon, suggesting that no one will be exempt from this paralyzing fear. The verse also utilizes striking **imagery** and **metaphor**: "hands be faint" and "heart shall melt" are not literal descriptions but vivid, visceral metaphors for extreme psychological and physical collapse. The "faintness" of hands visually represents the loss of strength and ability to act, while the "melting" heart powerfully conveys a profound sense of terror, demoralization, and the dissolution of courage. This imagery is designed to evoke a strong emotional response in the reader, mirroring the terror experienced by Babylon. Furthermore, the verse exhibits **parallelism**, where the two clauses ("all hands be faint" and "every man's heart shall melt") mirror each other in structure and meaning, reinforcing the central idea of universal paralysis and despair through a double emphasis on both physical and emotional breakdown.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 13:7 serves as a stark reminder of God's absolute sovereignty over nations and history, demonstrating that even the most formidable human powers are utterly vulnerable before His righteous judgment. The complete collapse of courage and strength among Babylon's inhabitants underscores the futility of trusting in human might or earthly defenses. This divine judgment is not arbitrary but a consequence of pride, idolatry, and oppression, revealing God's justice in holding nations accountable for their actions. The terror described highlights the awesome and terrifying nature of encountering God's wrath, contrasting sharply with the peace and security found in His covenant faithfulness.

* [Joshua 2:11](/joshua/2-11 "Joshua 2:11 - Hearts Melted Before Israel")
* [Deuteronomy 20:8](/deuteronomy/20-8 "Deuteronomy 20:8 - Faint-Hearted Sent Home")
* [Jeremiah 50:43](/jeremiah/50-43 "Jeremiah 50:43 - King of Babylon's Hands Wax Feeble")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 13:7, though a prophecy of judgment against an ancient empire, carries profound and timeless implications for us today. It forces us to confront the reality of divine sovereignty and the ultimate futility of placing our trust in anything other than God. In a world that often exalts human strength, technological prowess, and economic might, this verse serves as a sobering corrective, reminding us that all earthly foundations are transient and can crumble in the face of God's purposes. It challenges us to examine where our true security lies: is it in our financial portfolios, our national defense, our personal achievements, or is it in the unchanging character and steadfast love of God? The terror described in Babylon should prompt a healthy fear of God, not a cowering dread, but a reverential awe that leads to humility, repentance, and a desire to live in alignment with His will. For believers, while the judgment is severe, it also offers comfort, affirming that God is just and will ultimately bring all things into His perfect order, vindicating His people and establishing His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I tend to place my ultimate trust and security in life, and how does this verse challenge those foundations?**
* **How does the concept of God's sovereignty over nations, even in judgment, shape my understanding of current global events?**
* **What does "a melting heart" signify in my own spiritual walk, and how can I cultivate a heart that is courageous and steadfast in God?**

### FAQ

**What is the "Day of the Lord" mentioned in this context?**

Answer: The "Day of the Lord" is a recurring prophetic theme in the Old Testament, signifying a specific time when God intervenes decisively in human history to execute judgment upon His enemies and to deliver His people. While it can refer to a specific historical event (like the fall of Babylon in [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - The Burden of Babylon")), it also carries eschatological implications, pointing to a future, ultimate day of divine reckoning and the establishment of God's kingdom. In Isaiah 13, it describes an overwhelming, destructive event, characterized by cosmic disturbances and widespread terror, demonstrating God's absolute control over the destiny of nations.

**How does this prophecy against Babylon relate to other biblical judgments?**

Answer: This prophecy against Babylon is typical of many divine judgments found throughout the Bible, particularly in the prophetic books. Like the judgments against Egypt, Assyria, Tyre, and other nations, it demonstrates God's moral governance over the world and His commitment to justice. These judgments often target nations for their pride, idolatry, oppression of God's people, and general wickedness. They serve as a warning to all who defy God and as an assurance to His people that He will ultimately right all wrongs. The fall of Babylon, as depicted here and in [Jeremiah 50-51](/jeremiah/50 "Jeremiah 50 - Prophecy Against Babylon"), is a prime example of a powerful empire brought low by divine decree.

**Does this verse imply a complete and utter destruction of Babylon's population?**

Answer: While the language of "all hands" and "every man's heart" suggests a universal and overwhelming impact, it is primarily a rhetorical device (hyperbole) to emphasize the profound and debilitating terror that will grip the entire populace. It signifies a complete collapse of morale, courage, and the ability to resist, rather than necessarily implying the literal annihilation of every single individual. Historical accounts of Babylon's fall to the Persians (as recorded by ancient historians like Herodotus) suggest a relatively swift capture without a prolonged siege or widespread massacre, though the city's power and independence were indeed utterly broken, fulfilling the spirit of the prophecy. The focus is on the psychological and spiritual devastation that accompanies divine judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Isaiah 13:7 describes a historical judgment on Babylon, its underlying theological principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The terror and helplessness experienced by Babylon's inhabitants in the face of divine wrath foreshadow the ultimate judgment that awaits all who reject God's sovereignty. However, in Christ, this terrifying prospect is transformed. Jesus, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the full weight of God's wrath on the cross, offering Himself as a substitute for humanity's sin. Through His sacrifice, those who trust in Him are delivered from the "melting heart" of fear before a holy God and are instead granted peace with God ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God Through Christ")). The "faint hands" of humanity, powerless to save themselves, are met by the strong, nail-pierced hands of Christ, who offers salvation and eternal life ([Acts 4:12](/acts/4-12 "Acts 4:12 - Salvation in No Other Name")). Thus, the judgment depicted in Isaiah 13:7, while a historical reality for Babylon, ultimately points to the greater spiritual reality of humanity's need for a Savior, and the glorious provision of that Savior in Jesus Christ, who delivers us from the fear of judgment and brings us into His kingdom of light ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness to Light")).

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

Ezekiel 21:7

And it shall be, when they say unto thee, Wherefore sighest thou? that thou shalt answer, For the tidings; because it cometh: and every heart shall melt, and all hands shall be feeble, and every spirit shall faint, and all knees shall be weak [as] water: behold, it cometh, and shall be brought to pass, saith the Lord GOD.

Nahum 1:6

Who can stand before his indignation? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? his fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him.

Ezekiel 7:17

All hands shall be feeble, and all knees shall be weak [as] water.

Isaiah 19:1

¶ The burden of Egypt. Behold, the LORD rideth upon a swift cloud, and shall come into Egypt: and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at his presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in the midst of it.

Nahum 2:10

She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much pain [is] in all loins, and the faces of them all gather blackness.

Isaiah 37:27

Therefore their inhabitants [were] of small power, they were dismayed and confounded: they were [as] the grass of the field, and [as] the green herb, [as] the grass on the housetops, and [as corn] blasted before it be grown up.

Jeremiah 50:43

The king of Babylon hath heard the report of them, and his hands waxed feeble: anguish took hold of him, [and] pangs as of a woman in travail.