Isaiah 15:8

For the cry is gone round about the borders of Moab; the howling thereof unto Eglaim, and the howling thereof unto Beerelim.

For the cry {H2201} is gone round about {H5362} the borders {H1366} of Moab {H4124}; the howling {H3215} thereof unto Eglaim {H97}, and the howling {H3215} thereof unto Beerelim {H879}.

For the cry has circulated throughout Mo'av's territory - its howling has reached Eglayim, its howling has reached Be'er-Elim.

For their outcry echoes to the border of Moab. Their wailing reaches Eglaim; it is heard in Beer-elim.

For the cry is gone round about the borders of Moab; the wailing thereof unto Eglaim, and the wailing thereof unto Beer-elim.

Commentary

Isaiah 15:8 describes the widespread and intense lamentation that will sweep across the land of Moab as a result of divine judgment. The verse paints a vivid picture of distress, with cries and howls echoing from one end of the territory to the other, specifically mentioning Eglaim and Beerelim as points reached by the sorrow.

Context

Isaiah 15 is part of a series of "burdens" or oracles against various nations surrounding Israel, delivered by the prophet Isaiah. This particular chapter focuses on Moab, a nation located east of the Dead Sea, descended from Lot (Genesis 19:37). Historically, Moab often had a contentious relationship with Israel, and was known for its pride and idolatry. The chapter portrays a swift and devastating judgment upon Moab's cities and land, leading to widespread mourning and collapse. Verse 8 specifically emphasizes the pervasiveness of this grief, indicating that no part of the nation will be untouched by the impending calamity.

Key Themes

  • Widespread Devastation and Grief: The repetition of "cry" and "howling" and the mention of the lament reaching "round about the borders" and extending to specific locations like Eglaim and Beerelim underscore the comprehensive nature of the suffering. It signifies that the judgment affects everyone and every place within Moab.
  • Divine Judgment: The lamentation is a direct consequence of God's judgment against Moab's pride, idolatry, and opposition to His people. This highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and His justice in holding them accountable.
  • Consequences of Rebellion: The verse serves as a stark reminder of the severe outcomes for nations or individuals who set themselves against God's purposes or live in defiance of His will. Moab's fall illustrates that even mighty nations are not immune to divine wrath.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "cry" is za'aq (Χ¦ΦΈΧ’Φ·Χ§), which often denotes a desperate cry for help, a shriek of anguish, or an outcry of distress. The term "howling" is yelalah (Χ™Φ°ΧœΦΈΧœΦΈΧ”), describing a deep, prolonged, and mournful wail, typically associated with intense grief, despair, or lamentation. The use of both terms and their repetition emphasizes the profound and overwhelming nature of the sorrow that will grip Moab. Eglaim and Beerelim were likely significant towns or regions within Moab, serving to illustrate the full geographical extent of the disaster.

Practical Application

Isaiah 15:8, though describing an ancient judgment, carries timeless lessons. It reminds us of the seriousness of God's judgment against sin and pride, whether in nations or individuals. Just as Moab's pride led to its downfall, so too can arrogance and rebellion against God bring about severe consequences (Proverbs 16:18). This verse encourages humility and a recognition of God's ultimate authority over all earthly powers (Daniel 4:17). Furthermore, the widespread nature of the lament can serve as a sober warning that societal or national sins often lead to pervasive suffering that affects many, not just a few.

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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 48:20

    Moab is confounded; for it is broken down: howl and cry; tell ye it in Arnon, that Moab is spoiled,

  • Jeremiah 48:24

    And upon Kerioth, and upon Bozrah, and upon all the cities of the land of Moab, far or near.

  • Isaiah 15:2

    He is gone up to Bajith, and to Dibon, the high places, to weep: Moab shall howl over Nebo, and over Medeba: on all their heads [shall be] baldness, [and] every beard cut off.

  • Isaiah 15:5

    My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives [shall flee] unto Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction.

  • Ezekiel 47:10

    And it shall come to pass, [that] the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a [place] to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many.

  • Jeremiah 48:31

    Therefore will I howl for Moab, and I will cry out for all Moab; [mine heart] shall mourn for the men of Kirheres.

  • Jeremiah 48:34

    From the cry of Heshbon [even] unto Elealeh, [and even] unto Jahaz, have they uttered their voice, from Zoar [even] unto Horonaim, [as] an heifer of three years old: for the waters also of Nimrim shall be desolate.
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