Isaiah 14:30

KJV

And the firstborn of the poor shall feed, and the needy shall lie down in safety: and I will kill thy root with famine, and he shall slay thy remnant.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the firstborn {H1060} of the poor {H1800} shall feed {H7462}, and the needy {H34} shall lie down {H7257} in safety {H983}: and I will kill {H4191} thy root {H8328} with famine {H7458}, and he shall slay {H2026} thy remnant {H7611}.

Complete Jewish Bible

While the firstborn of the poor graze and the needy lie down in safety, I will kill off your root with famine and slaughter the rest of you.

Berean Standard Bible

Then the firstborn of the poor will find pasture, and the needy will lie down in safety, but I will kill your root by famine, and your remnant will be slain.

American Standard Version

And the first-born of the poor shall feed, and the needy shall lie down in safety; and I will kill thy root with famine, and thy remnant shall be slain.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 14:30 delivers a powerful prophetic declaration of divine justice and a profound reversal of fortunes. It vividly portrays God's unwavering commitment to His vulnerable people, promising them secure provision and safety amidst turmoil, while simultaneously pronouncing the absolute and irreversible destruction of their oppressors. Situated within a broader oracle against Philistia, this verse underscores God's sovereign control over all nations, ensuring that the downtrodden are uplifted and those who wield oppressive power are brought to complete and utter ruin, leaving no trace of their former might.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral component of the "burden of Philistia" (Isaiah 14:29-32), a specific oracle of judgment within a larger collection of pronouncements against various nations (Isaiah 13-23). Preceding this section are extensive oracles against Babylon (Isaiah 13-14:23) and Assyria (Isaiah 14:24-27), establishing a pattern of God's sovereign intervention in global affairs. Isaiah 14:29 sets the immediate scene, warning Philistia not to rejoice over the breaking of a "rod"—likely referring to the demise of a previous oppressor like Assyria or a Judean king who had subdued them—because an even more formidable threat, described as a "viper" and a "flying fiery serpent," would emerge. Isaiah 14:30 then presents the stark contrast that is the direct consequence of this impending divine judgment: the secure well-being of God's people set against the total annihilation of their enemy. The oracle concludes in Isaiah 14:32 with a defiant affirmation to foreign envoys that the Lord has founded Zion, underscoring the invincibility of God's chosen city and people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Philistia comprised a confederation of five major city-states (Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Gath, Ekron) situated on the fertile southwestern coastal plain of ancient Israel. Historically, the Philistines were perennial adversaries of Israel, frequently engaging in military conflicts and often subjugating or harassing Judah. Their strategic geographical location made them a crucial buffer zone and a frequent pawn or ally for larger imperial powers like Egypt and Assyria, who often traversed their territory. The "rod" mentioned in Isaiah 14:29 likely refers to a dominant power or king (perhaps Uzziah or Ahaz of Judah, or even Assyria) that had previously exerted control over Philistia. The prophecy in Isaiah 14:30, therefore, speaks directly to the historical reality of Philistine aggression and their perceived triumph over a weakening Judah. It promises a divine reversal, where God would dismantle Philistine power from its very foundations, ensuring their inability to rise again and oppress His people.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 14:30 powerfully articulates several core themes central to Isaiah's prophetic message and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Justice and the Reversal of Fortunes**, portraying God as the sovereign judge who actively intervenes to bring down the proud and exalt the humble. This echoes the consistent biblical portrayal of God's justice found throughout the [Psalms](/psalm/113-7-8 "Psalm 113:7-8 - God Lifts the Poor") and the prophetic books, where God is depicted as the one who "puts down the mighty from their thrones and exalts those of humble estate" (cf. [Luke 1:52](/luke/1-52 "Luke 1:52 - Mary's Magnificat")). Secondly, the verse emphasizes **God's Faithful Provision and Protection for the Vulnerable**. The promise that "the firstborn of the poor shall feed, and the needy shall lie down in safety" underscores God's tender and unwavering care for the marginalized and oppressed, assuring His people of sustenance and security even amidst regional instability. This theme is deeply rooted in God's covenant faithfulness, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Covenant Faithfulness"). Lastly, the vivid imagery of a "root" being killed and a "remnant" being slain portrays the **Total Annihilation of the Oppressor**. This signifies a complete and irreversible end to the oppressive power, leaving no hope for resurgence, a common motif in [oracles against nations](/jeremiah/46 "Jeremiah 46 - Prophecy Against Egypt") that underscore God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly kingdoms.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **dal (Hebrew, _dal'_):** From H1800, meaning "properly, dangling, i.e. (by implication) weak or thin; lean, needy, poor (man), weaker." In the phrase "firstborn of the poor" (H1060 _bᵉkôwr_ + H1800 _dal_), _dal_ denotes extreme destitution and vulnerability. The idiom "firstborn of the poor" signifies those who are the most impoverished, the utterly destitute, or those who are the first and most severely impacted by hardship and famine. This emphasizes the profound depth of their need and the radical nature of God's promised intervention on their behalf.
* **râʻâh (Hebrew, _raʻah'_):** From H7462, a primitive root meaning "to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend); [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste." In the context of "shall feed," this word implies more than mere eating; it conveys the comprehensive care, provision, and nurturing that a shepherd provides for his flock. This highlights a state of security and abundance, standing in stark contrast to the famine and desolation awaiting the oppressors.
* **sheresh (Hebrew, _sheresh'_):** From H8328, meaning "a root (literally or figuratively); bottom, deep, heel, root." This term, used in "kill thy root," functions as a powerful **metaphor** for the very foundation, source, or lineage of a people or nation. To "kill the root" signifies complete and utter eradication, ensuring that nothing remains from which future growth, revival, or progeny could spring. This concept is further reinforced by the subsequent phrase "slay thy remnant" (H7611 _shᵉʼêrîyth_), which refers to any surviving portion or residual element, emphasizing that the destruction will be so thorough that no survivors will be left to perpetuate the lineage or power of the oppressor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the firstborn of the poor shall feed":** This opening clause introduces a dramatic reversal of fortunes. "The firstborn of the poor" refers to the most vulnerable and impoverished segments of society, those typically most susceptible to famine and hardship. The promise that they "shall feed" (râʻâh) implies not just survival, but abundant provision, care, and sustenance, akin to a flock being well-pastured and nourished by a shepherd.
* **"and the needy shall lie down in safety":** This second part of the divine promise for God's people reinforces the theme of comprehensive care and security. "The needy" (H34, _ʼebyôwn_) are those in want, often beggars or the severely disadvantaged. To "lie down in safety" (H7257, _râbats_ + H983, _beṭach_) paints a vivid picture of secure rest, profound peace, and freedom from fear—a stark contrast to the constant threat and instability they previously endured. This signifies a state of deep well-being and divine protection.
* **"and I will kill thy root with famine":** Here, the focus shifts abruptly and dramatically to the oppressor (Philistia, addressed directly as "thy"). The emphatic "I will kill" asserts God's direct, sovereign agency in this judgment. "Thy root" is a potent **metaphor** for the very source, origin, and lifeblood of the nation. To kill it "with famine" indicates a devastating, internal collapse, where the very sustenance and foundation of the nation are cut off, leading to its complete and irreversible demise.
* **"and he shall slay thy remnant.":** This final clause seals the comprehensive fate of the oppressor. While the "I" in the preceding clause refers to God, the "he" here could refer to God's appointed agent of judgment (e.g., an invading army, such as the "flying fiery serpent" mentioned in Isaiah 14:29), or it may remain an unspecified agent through whom God executes His decree. "Thy remnant" refers to any survivors or remaining elements of the nation. To "slay" them ensures that the destruction is absolute and comprehensive, leaving no survivors to rebuild, perpetuate the lineage, or carry on the oppressive legacy.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 14:30 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and contrasting message. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, which creates a sharp **Contrast** by juxtaposing the secure and nourished state of the poor with the utter destruction of the oppressor. This stark opposition highlights the divine reversal of fortunes. **Metaphor** is vividly used in "kill thy root," where the "root" represents the very foundation, source, and lineage of a nation, signifying total and irreversible eradication. This is further emphasized by **Hyperbole** inherent in the phrases "kill thy root" and "slay thy remnant," which underscores the completeness and finality of the judgment—no part of the oppressive power will survive. The phrase "kill thy root with famine" also subtly uses **Personification**, as famine itself is depicted as an active agent of destruction, though ultimately orchestrated by God's sovereign will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 14:30 stands as a profound testament to God's character as both a righteous judge and a compassionate provider. It reveals that divine justice is not merely punitive but also profoundly restorative, ensuring that the scales of righteousness are balanced in human affairs. God actively intervenes in history, not only to bring down oppressive regimes and arrogant powers but also to uplift, protect, and secure the well-being of the marginalized and vulnerable. This verse powerfully underscores the biblical principle that earthly power and prosperity are fleeting and ultimately subject to divine sovereignty, especially when wielded for exploitation or injustice. It offers profound hope and assurance to those suffering injustice, reminding them that their cries are heard and that God will ultimately act on their behalf. Simultaneously, it serves as a stern and unequivocal warning to those who hold power unjustly, highlighting the inevitable and comprehensive nature of divine judgment.

* [Psalm 75:7](/psalm/75-7 "Psalm 75:7 - God Judges the Earth") - "But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another."
* [Psalm 9:8](/psalm/9-8 "Psalm 9:8 - God Judges the World Righteously") - "And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness."
* [Psalm 140:12](/psalm/140-12 "Psalm 140:12 - God Maintains the Cause of the Afflicted") - "I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 14:30 offers a profound lens through which to understand God's active involvement in the world and His unwavering commitment to justice. For those who feel marginalized, overlooked, or oppressed, this verse is a powerful beacon of hope, reminding us that God sees our plight, hears our cries, and is actively working to bring about a reversal of fortunes. It encourages us to place our trust in His sovereign provision and protection, even when circumstances seem dire or overwhelming. For those in positions of influence, authority, or privilege, this passage serves as a sobering warning against pride, exploitation, and the misuse of power. It calls us to examine our own lives, our communities, and the systems we inhabit for any forms of oppression or neglect of the vulnerable, prompting us to actively align ourselves with God's heart for justice and compassion. Ultimately, it invites us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that God's ultimate justice will prevail, and His kingdom will be characterized by peace, abundant provision, and safety for all who trust in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of provision and safety for "the firstborn of the poor" challenge my understanding of God's priorities in a world often focused on power and wealth?**
* **In what ways might I be complicit in systems or attitudes that oppress or neglect the vulnerable, and how can I actively work towards God's justice in my sphere of influence?**
* **How does the certainty of divine judgment against oppressors strengthen my faith and encourage me to persevere when facing injustice, knowing God is ultimately in control?**

### FAQ
**Who are "the firstborn of the poor" and "the needy" in this verse?**

Answer: "The firstborn of the poor" (Hebrew: _bikurey dal_) is an idiomatic expression that signifies the most utterly destitute, the poorest of the poor, or those who are the first to experience hardship and famine. It emphasizes the extreme vulnerability of this group. "The needy" (Hebrew: _ʼebyôwn_) refers to those who are in want, often beggars or the severely impoverished. In the context of Isaiah 14:30, these terms collectively refer to God's people, Judah, who have been oppressed and impoverished by foreign powers like Philistia. The verse promises that despite their current state of vulnerability, God will provide for them and secure their safety, demonstrating His preferential care for the marginalized, a theme echoed throughout the [Old Testament](/psalm/10-14 "Psalm 10:14 - God Sees the Trouble of the Oppressed").

**Who is "he" who "shall slay thy remnant" in the latter part of the verse?**

Answer: The identity of "he" in "and he shall slay thy remnant" is not explicitly stated, but within the broader prophetic context of Isaiah, it typically refers to God's chosen instrument of judgment. While God declares "I will kill thy root," indicating His direct sovereign action, "he" could refer to a specific invading army (such as the "flying fiery serpent" mentioned in [Isaiah 14:29](/isaiah/14-29 "Isaiah 14:29 - Prophecy Against Philistia")), or it could be a more general reference to any agent through whom God executes His judgment. The emphasis is not so much on the identity of the human agent but on the certainty and completeness of the divine decree, ensuring that no vestige of the oppressive nation will survive, leaving no "remnant" to rebuild or continue their legacy (cf. [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - God Uses Babylon as His Instrument")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 14:30, with its powerful declaration of divine justice and reversal of fortunes, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The promise that "the firstborn of the poor shall feed, and the needy shall lie down in safety" is beautifully embodied in Jesus's earthly ministry, where He consistently identified with and ministered to the marginalized, the sick, and the outcast. He declared blessing upon the "poor in spirit" and those who "hunger and thirst for righteousness" ([Matthew 5:3-6](/matthew/5-3-6 "Matthew 5:3-6 - The Beatitudes")), inviting all who are weary and burdened to find rest and safety in Him ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Jesus Himself became the ultimate "Lamb of God" who was slain, yet through His sacrifice, He provided eternal sustenance and security for all who believe, ushering in a spiritual kingdom where the oppressed find true liberation and peace. Conversely, the judgment against the oppressor—"I will kill thy root with famine, and he shall slay thy remnant"—foreshadows Christ's ultimate victory over all oppressive powers, including sin, death, and the forces of evil. His return will bring about the final and complete eradication of all injustice and rebellion, where every "root" of evil will be cut off, and no "remnant" of wickedness will survive ([Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Judgment")). Thus, Isaiah 14:30 points forward to the comprehensive redemption and righteous reign of Christ, who both tenderly cares for His vulnerable people and sovereignly defeats every foe.

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

Isaiah 7:21

And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] a man shall nourish a young cow, and two sheep;

Isaiah 7:22

And it shall come to pass, for the abundance of milk [that] they shall give he shall eat butter: for butter and honey shall every one eat that is left in the land.

Zephaniah 2:4

¶ For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation: they shall drive out Ashdod at the noon day, and Ekron shall be rooted up.

Zephaniah 2:7

And the coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah; they shall feed thereupon: in the houses of Ashkelon shall they lie down in the evening: for the LORD their God shall visit them, and turn away their captivity.

Ezekiel 25:15

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because the Philistines have dealt by revenge, and have taken vengeance with a despiteful heart, to destroy [it] for the old hatred;

Ezekiel 25:17

And I will execute great vengeance upon them with furious rebukes; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I shall lay my vengeance upon them.

Isaiah 33:16

He shall dwell on high: his place of defence [shall be] the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters [shall be] sure.