Isaiah 16:3

KJV

Take counsel, execute judgment; make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday; hide the outcasts; bewray not him that wandereth.

KJV (with Strong's)

Take {H935} counsel {H6098}, execute {H6213} judgment {H6415}; make {H7896} thy shadow {H6738} as the night {H3915} in the midst {H8432} of the noonday {H6672}; hide {H5641} the outcasts {H5080}; bewray {H1540} not him that wandereth {H5074}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Give [us] counsel! Decide [to help]! Make your shadow [over us] like night in the middle of noonday. Hide [our] outcasts! Don't betray [our] fugitives!

Berean Standard Bible

“Give us counsel; render a decision. Shelter us at noonday with shade as dark as night. Hide the refugees; do not betray the one who flees.

American Standard Version

Give counsel, execute justice; make thy shade as the night in the midst of the noonday; hide the outcasts; betray not the fugitive.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 16:3 issues a profound and urgent prophetic appeal, calling upon those in positions of authority—likely Judah or any benevolent power—to extend radical compassion and righteous judgment towards the vulnerable and displaced Moabite refugees. Set against the backdrop of Moab's impending desolation, the verse implores the powerful to provide comprehensive sanctuary, shielding fugitives from exposure and betrayal, thereby embodying divine principles of mercy and just governance in a time of severe humanitarian crisis.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the "oracle concerning Moab," which spans [Isaiah chapters 15 and 16](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15-16 - Oracle Against Moab"). Chapter 15 vividly depicts the widespread devastation and lamentation across Moab, portraying its inhabitants as desperate refugees fleeing their destroyed homeland. [Isaiah 16:1-5](/isaiah/16-1-5 "Isaiah 16:1-5 - Moab's Plea for Refuge and Judah's Response") then presents a complex scenario: a plea for refuge from Moab, a potential offer of tribute (perhaps a "lamb to the ruler of the land" in [Isaiah 16:1](/isaiah/16-1 "Isaiah 16:1 - Moab Sends a Lamb to Judah")), and a direct appeal for Judah to act justly. Verse 3, specifically, serves as a powerful humanitarian injunction, urging the potential protectors to offer sanctuary to the fleeing Moabites rather than exploiting their extreme vulnerability. This ethical imperative immediately precedes a significant messianic promise in [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of David Established in Justice"), which grounds the call for justice and compassion in the righteous and steadfast character of God and His future king.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The oracle against Moab is typically situated within the tumultuous 8th century BCE, a period dominated by the relentless expansion of the Assyrian Empire. Moab, a nation located east of the Dead Sea, frequently found itself caught between the geopolitical ambitions of larger powers like Assyria, Egypt, and Judah. In times of war and invasion, the plight of refugees was a common and dire reality. Ancient Near Eastern societies, while often brutal, also possessed ethical codes regarding the treatment of sojourners and the helpless, sometimes even extending to those from enemy nations. The concept of asylum and hospitality, though not always perfectly practiced, was a significant moral consideration. The imagery of "noonday" (Hebrew: _tsôhar'_) in the verse is particularly poignant, evoking the scorching heat and open exposure of the desert landscape common to the region, symbolizing the extreme danger and vulnerability faced by those without shelter. The prophet's plea underscores the dire circumstances of those fleeing for their lives, highlighting a moral imperative to protect the defenseless, a principle deeply embedded in Old Testament law concerning the sojourner and the needy, as seen in passages like [Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18-19 - God's Love for the Sojourner").

* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 16:3 powerfully articulates several core themes central to biblical ethics and theology. Firstly, it emphasizes the **imperative of compassion for the vulnerable**, urging those with power to shelter and protect the defenseless and displaced. The commands to "hide the outcasts; bewray not him that wandereth" directly address the moral obligation to provide refuge and avoid betraying fugitives, reflecting God's own character as a protector of the marginalized, as beautifully expressed in [Psalm 146:9](/psalm/146-9 "Psalm 146:9 - The Lord Protects the Sojourner"). Secondly, the verse calls for **righteous judgment and wise counsel**, underscoring the necessity of ethical and discerning decision-making, particularly when dealing with those in dire circumstances. "Take counsel, execute judgment" implies that true governance is characterized by integrity and equity, ensuring that decisions serve justice rather than oppression or self-interest. Lastly, the vivid imagery of "make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday" conveys the theme of **profound and absolute protection**. Just as the coolness of night offers respite from the oppressive midday sun, so too should the shelter provided be comprehensive and life-saving, offering complete safety from overwhelming threats and reflecting the divine promise of refuge found in passages like [Psalm 91:1](/psalm/91-1 "Psalm 91:1 - Dwelling in the Shelter of the Most High").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Counsel (Hebrew, _ʻêtsâh'_):** From H6098, this word signifies "advice; by implication, plan; also prudence." In this context, it calls for thoughtful and ethical deliberation, implying that decisions regarding the vulnerable should not be impulsive or self-serving but carefully considered and guided by wisdom and justice. It suggests a strategic and moral approach to governance and aid, emphasizing the need for leaders to seek and apply sound, righteous judgment.
* **Shadow (Hebrew, _tsêl'_):** From H6738, this term literally means "shade" or "shadow" but frequently carries the figurative meaning of "protection" or "defense." Here, it is used metaphorically to represent a comprehensive and life-saving refuge. The imagery of a shadow in the intense "noonday" heat emphasizes the critical need for shelter from overwhelming danger, highlighting the profound and essential nature of the protection being sought—a complete covering that offers relief and safety.
* **Bewray (Hebrew, _gâlâh'_):** From H1540, an archaic English translation of a primitive root meaning "to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile; figuratively, to reveal." In this verse, "bewray not" means "do not betray" or "do not expose." It is a powerful injunction against revealing the location or identity of those seeking refuge, emphasizing the sacred trust involved in offering sanctuary and the severe moral failing of betraying a fugitive to their pursuers or oppressors.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Take counsel, execute judgment;":** This initial imperative calls upon those in positions of authority to engage in thoughtful deliberation and to implement decisions that are just and righteous. "Counsel" (H6098) implies wisdom and careful consideration, while "judgment" (H6415) refers to the act of rendering justice, particularly in legal or ethical matters. The combined phrase urges leaders to govern with integrity and equity, ensuring that their actions are rooted in divine principles of fairness, especially when dealing with the vulnerable.
* **"make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday;":** This is a vivid and powerful metaphorical command to provide profound and absolute protection. "Shadow" (H6738) symbolizes refuge, and "night" (H3915) offers relief from the oppressive "noonday" (H6672) heat, which represents extreme danger or distress. The imagery conveys the idea of offering complete, life-saving shelter from overwhelming and immediate threats, a sanctuary so absolute it transforms perilous exposure into secure concealment.
* **"hide the outcasts;":** This is a direct, compassionate command to provide sanctuary and concealment. "Hide" (H5641) means to conceal or keep secret, while "outcasts" (H5080) refers to those who have been driven away, expelled, or are fleeing from persecution or disaster. It emphasizes the moral obligation to actively provide a safe haven for the displaced and vulnerable, ensuring their anonymity and security from those who would harm them.
* **"bewray not him that wandereth.":** This is a stern and unequivocal prohibition against betrayal. "Bewray" (H1540) means to reveal, expose, or betray, and "him that wandereth" (H5074) refers to a fugitive, exile, or one who is roving and without a fixed home, desperately seeking safety. The command underscores the sanctity of providing refuge and the severe moral failing of exposing or betraying those who have sought protection, highlighting the profound trust placed in the protector.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 16:3 is profoundly impactful due to its strategic use of several literary devices. The prophet employs a strong **Imperative Mood**, using direct commands ("Take counsel," "execute judgment," "make thy shadow," "hide," "bewray not") to convey the urgency, moral weight, and non-negotiable nature of the plea. The most striking device is the powerful **Metaphor** and **Imagery** found in "make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday." This vivid image contrasts the oppressive, life-threatening heat and exposure of midday with the cool, protective darkness of night, symbolizing a desperate need for profound and absolute refuge. It is an example of **Hyperbole** in its intensity, emphasizing the life-or-death nature of the protection required and the overwhelming danger faced by the fugitives. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism** in its structure, particularly in the final two clauses ("hide the outcasts; bewray not him that wandereth"), where two related commands reinforce the central theme of protecting the vulnerable and avoiding betrayal, creating a sense of rhetorical emphasis and moral clarity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on God's character as a protector of the vulnerable and a God of justice. It challenges humanity to reflect divine attributes by extending compassion, hospitality, and righteous judgment, especially towards those who are marginalized, displaced, or suffering. The plea for profound protection echoes the many psalms where God is depicted as a refuge and a stronghold for His people, demonstrating that human acts of mercy are a participation in God's own benevolent rule. The call to "take counsel, execute judgment" underscores that true leadership, whether national or individual, is measured by its commitment to equity and care for the weakest members of society, aligning with the broader prophetic tradition that champions social justice as integral to true worship and obedience to God.

* [Deuteronomy 23:15-16](/deuteronomy/23-15-16 "Deuteronomy 23:15-16 - Do Not Return a Runaway Slave")
* [Psalm 91:1-4](/psalm/91-1-4 "Psalm 91:1-4 - God Our Refuge and Fortress")
* [Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "Matthew 25:35-40 - The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 16:3 offers a timeless and challenging call to action for individuals, communities, and nations in every generation. It compels us to examine our posture towards those who are vulnerable, displaced, or seeking refuge. In a world marked by ongoing humanitarian crises, conflict, and natural disasters, the command to "hide the outcasts" and "bewray not him that wandereth" directly applies to our responsibility to offer hospitality, support, and advocacy for refugees, asylum seekers, and the marginalized. It is a summons to move beyond mere sympathy to active, sacrificial compassion, becoming a "shadow as the night" – a source of profound safety and relief – for those in desperate need. Furthermore, the directive to "take counsel, execute judgment" reminds us that our decisions, whether personal or collective, must be rooted in wisdom, justice, and empathy, prioritizing human dignity and well-being over self-interest, fear, or political expediency. This verse challenges us to embody God's character of mercy and justice in tangible ways, transforming our communities into places of refuge and hope, reflecting the very heart of God for the oppressed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday" challenge my understanding of what it means to offer true, life-saving protection to the vulnerable?**
* **In what practical ways can I, or my community, actively "hide the outcasts" and faithfully "bewray not him that wandereth" in today's complex world?**
* **How can I ensure that my personal and collective "counsel" and "judgment" are consistently guided by compassion, equity, and biblical justice, especially towards those in distress or marginalized?**

### FAQ
**What is the historical context of the "outcasts" and "wanderers" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "outcasts" (H5080, _nâdach'_) and "wanderers" (H5074, _nâdad'_) in Isaiah 16:3 primarily refer to the Moabite refugees fleeing the devastation prophesied in [Isaiah chapter 15](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15 - Oracle Against Moab"). This destruction was likely caused by an invading power, most probably the Assyrian Empire, which was a dominant force in the ancient Near East during Isaiah's time. These terms describe people who have been driven from their homes, expelled, or are in flight, desperately seeking safety and refuge from war, famine, or other calamities. The prophet is appealing to Judah, or perhaps any benevolent authority, to offer them sanctuary rather than betraying their vulnerable state, reflecting a broader biblical concern for the plight of the displaced.

**Why is the imagery of "shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday" so significant?**

Answer: This imagery is profoundly significant because it conveys the extreme urgency and life-saving nature of the protection being requested. "Noonday" (H6672, _tsôhar'_) in the ancient Near East signified the hottest, most exposed, and often most dangerous part of the day, symbolizing intense distress, vulnerability, or overwhelming threat. "Night" (H3915, _layil'_) provides relief from this oppressive heat and offers concealment and safety. Therefore, to "make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday" means to provide absolute, comprehensive, and life-sustaining refuge from the most severe and immediate dangers. It emphasizes that the shelter must be as complete and effective as the darkness of night is in shielding one from the scorching midday sun, highlighting the desperate need for profound intervention and care that transforms peril into peace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 16:3 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who flawlessly embodies the call to righteous judgment, profound protection, and compassionate refuge. While the verse directly addresses human responsibility, it points to the divine standard of mercy that Christ perfectly exemplified. Jesus Himself became the ultimate "shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday" for humanity, offering complete spiritual and eternal refuge from the scorching judgment of sin and the oppressive power of death. He is the one who "hides the outcasts" and "bewrays not him that wandereth," welcoming all who are spiritually displaced, lost, and vulnerable into His kingdom. His earthly ministry was characterized by taking "counsel" from the Father and executing "judgment" with perfect justice and boundless mercy, particularly towards the marginalized and downtrodden, as seen in His healing of the sick and His profound compassion for the weary crowds (e.g., [Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion for the Crowds")). Furthermore, Jesus commands His followers to extend this same radical compassion, identifying with the "least of these" as if ministering directly to Him (e.g., [Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "Matthew 25:35-40 - The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Christ provides the ultimate sanctuary, inviting all who wander in sin and despair to find rest and security in Him, becoming our eternal refuge and the perfect fulfillment of Isaiah's plea for a compassionate and unfailing protector (e.g., [Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - Hope in God's Unchanging Promise")).

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 32:2

And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

1 Kings 18:4

For it was [so], when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the LORD, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.)

Isaiah 56:8

The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather [others] to him, beside those that are gathered unto him.

Hebrews 13:2

Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Isaiah 1:17

Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Matthew 25:35

For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: