Isaiah 16:7

KJV

Therefore shall Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl: for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn; surely [they are] stricken.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore shall Moab {H4124} howl {H3213} for Moab {H4124}, every one shall howl {H3213}: for the foundations {H808} of Kirhareseth {H7025} shall ye mourn {H1897}; surely they are stricken {H5218}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore Mo'av will wail for Mo'av - they will all wail! You will sigh, stricken by grief, for the raisin-cakes of Kir-Hareset.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore let Moab wail; let them wail together for Moab. Moan for the raisin cakes of Kir-hareseth, you who are utterly stricken.

American Standard Version

Therefore shall Moab wail for Moab, every one shall wail: for the raisin-cakes of Kir-hareseth shall ye mourn, utterly stricken.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 16:7 is a profound prophetic lament foretelling the utter devastation and widespread despair that will engulf the nation of Moab. It vividly portrays a scene of deep, communal mourning, specifically highlighting the destruction of Kirhareseth, a formidable Moabite stronghold, as a symbol of their complete and irreversible downfall under divine judgment. The verse underscores the futility of human strength and pride in the face of God's sovereign decree.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 16:7 is situated within a larger prophetic oracle against Moab, spanning [Isaiah chapters 15 and 16](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15-16 - The Burden of Moab"). This section, often referred to as "the burden of Moab," details the impending judgment and desolation of the Moabite kingdom. Chapter 15 opens with a vivid description of cities laid waste and widespread lamentation, setting a somber tone. Chapter 16 initially presents a plea for Moab to send tribute to Jerusalem and offers a glimmer of hope or a call for refuge, perhaps reflecting a compassionate intercession from Judah. However, this brief interlude of potential mercy quickly gives way to a renewed emphasis on Moab's inevitable destruction, largely due to their excessive pride and arrogance, explicitly condemned in [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Great Pride"). Verse 7 serves as a climactic expression of the lament, focusing on the despair over the loss of their strongest city, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution for their hubris.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was an ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. Descended from Lot (as recounted in [Genesis 19:37](/genesis/19-37 "Genesis 19:37 - Origin of Moab")), Moabites were known for their idolatry, particularly the worship of Chemosh, and their persistent animosity towards Israel. Their territory was fertile, contributing to their wealth and self-sufficiency, which often fostered a sense of national pride and independence. Kirhareseth (also known as Kir Hareseth or Kir of Moab) was a major fortified city, serving as a strategic stronghold and a symbol of Moabite power and security. Its destruction, therefore, represented not just a military defeat but the complete dismantling of their national identity and defense. The "howling" and "mourning" described in the verse reflect ancient Near Eastern customs of public lamentation, often involving loud wails, tearing of clothes, and expressions of profound grief in response to national catastrophe, famine, or death.

* **Key Themes:** The primary theme permeating [Isaiah 15-16](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15-16 - The Burden of Moab") and powerfully articulated in verse 7 is **Divine Judgment and Desolation**. God's unwavering justice is brought to bear upon Moab, resulting in their utter ruin. This judgment is largely a consequence of **Moab's Pride and Arrogance**, a recurring motif in prophetic literature, where nations that exalt themselves against God or His people face severe consequences. The verse also highlights the **Futility of Earthly Security and Strength**. Kirhareseth, a symbol of Moab's might, is rendered helpless, illustrating that no human stronghold or military power can withstand God's decree, echoing the sentiment found in [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16 "Psalm 33:16-17 - God's Deliverance, Not Human Strength"). Finally, the intense repetition of "howl" and the mention of "mourning" emphasize **Profound Lamentation and Communal Grief**, depicting a nation overwhelmed by irreversible loss and despair, a direct outcome of their rebellion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **howl (Hebrew, _yâlal'_):** This primitive root signifies a guttural, mournful cry, a deep wailing sound, or a boisterous yell. It conveys an intense, public, and often desperate expression of grief, distress, or anguish. The repetition in the verse ("Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl") underscores the widespread and inescapable nature of this lamentation, indicating a profound, national catastrophe.
* **mourn (Hebrew, _hâgâh'_):** While often translated as "mourn" in this context, the root meaning encompasses murmuring (in pleasure or anger), pondering, meditating, muttering, or roaring. Here, it specifically denotes a deep, internal groaning or lament that finds outward expression, often associated with intense sorrow or distress. The mourning is not merely for the loss of life but for the very "foundations" of their strength, suggesting a profound, existential grief over complete ruin.
* **stricken (Hebrew, _nâkêʼ'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to smite" or "to strike down," this word describes a state of being smitten, afflicted, broken, or wounded. In a prophetic context, "stricken" often implies a blow or judgment from God, indicating that Moab's ruin is not accidental or merely a result of human conflict, but a divinely ordained act of judgment, leading to their utter collapse.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore shall Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl":** This clause emphasizes the pervasive and internal nature of the impending grief. The repetition of "howl" (yâlal) intensifies the image of widespread, uncontrollable lamentation. "Moab howl for Moab" suggests a self-inflicted sorrow, a nation consumed by its own despair, or perhaps the people of Moab lamenting for the very land and identity of Moab. The phrase "every one shall howl" underscores the universality of this anguish, indicating that no one within the nation will be spared from this profound sorrow.
* **"for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn":** This part specifies the cause of the deep mourning. Kirhareseth was a major fortified city, a symbol of Moab's strength and security. The mention of its "foundations" (ʼâshîysh) being mourned implies a destruction so complete that even its deepest structures are affected, signifying not just a superficial defeat but a total collapse and ruin from which there is no recovery. The mourning is for the very bedrock of their national confidence and defense.
* **"surely [they are] stricken":** This concluding phrase provides the ultimate reason for the despair. The word "stricken" (nâkêʼ) implies a decisive, often divinely inflicted, blow. It conveys the finality and certainty of their destruction, leaving no room for hope or reversal. It suggests that their downfall is not merely a consequence of war but a direct result of a powerful, perhaps supernatural, force that has utterly broken them.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 16:7 employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its message of profound despair and judgment. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically the doubling of "howl" ("Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl"). This not only emphasizes the intensity and pervasiveness of the lament but also creates a sense of an inescapable, echoing sorrow that grips the entire nation. **Hyperbole** is also present in "every one shall howl," suggesting a universal and overwhelming grief that leaves no one untouched. The phrase "Moab howl for Moab" can be seen as a form of **Personification**, where the nation itself is depicted as the subject and object of its own sorrow, internalizing its grief. Furthermore, Kirhareseth serves as a potent **Symbolism**. As a strong, fortified city, its "foundations" being "stricken" symbolizes the complete and utter collapse of Moab's national security, pride, and very existence. The mourning over its foundations underscores that the destruction is not superficial but reaches the very core of their being, representing the futility of human strength against divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 16:7 powerfully illustrates the theological principle that divine judgment inevitably follows national pride and rebellion against God. Moab's wailing is not merely a consequence of military defeat but a spiritual lament over the shattering of their self-reliance and the futility of their earthly strongholds. The destruction of Kirhareseth serves as a stark reminder that no human edifice, no matter how strong or secure, can stand against the sovereign decree of the Almighty. This verse underscores God's ultimate authority over nations, demonstrating His justice in bringing low those who exalt themselves and refuse to acknowledge His supremacy. It is a timeless warning that true security and lasting peace are found not in human might or material possessions, but in humility and submission to the divine will.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [Psalm 33:16-17](/psalms/33-16 "Psalm 33:16-17 - God's Deliverance, Not Human Strength")
* [Jeremiah 48:31-36](/jeremiah/48-31 "Jeremiah 48:31-36 - Lament Over Moab's Desolation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 16:7 serves as a poignant mirror for self-examination, urging us to consider where our true security lies. The profound lamentation of Moab over its fallen foundations challenges us to recognize the transient nature of all earthly achievements, possessions, and even national strengths. If we place our trust in anything other than God—be it wealth, power, intellect, or personal accomplishments—we are building on foundations that are ultimately vulnerable to being "stricken." This verse calls us to cultivate humility, acknowledging God's sovereignty over all aspects of life, both individual and communal. It reminds us that pride precedes a fall, and true wisdom involves recognizing our dependence on divine grace. The wailing of Moab should prompt us to repent of any self-reliance or arrogance, turning instead to the Lord for our ultimate refuge and hope, ensuring that our lives are built upon the unshakeable foundation of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "foundations" in my life (e.g., career, finances, relationships, personal achievements) might I be relying on more than God?**
* **How does the "howling" of Moab challenge my own expressions of grief or despair when earthly securities fail?**
* **In what ways might pride subtly manifest in my life, and how can I actively cultivate a spirit of humility before God?**
* **How does the sovereignty of God over nations, as seen in this verse, impact my perspective on current global events and my role in prayer?**

### FAQ
**Why was Moab subjected to such severe judgment, leading to this profound lament?**

Answer: Moab's judgment, as depicted in Isaiah 16:7 and the surrounding chapters, was primarily a consequence of their persistent pride, arrogance, and idolatry. [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Exceeding Pride") explicitly states, "We have heard of the pride of Moab; he is exceeding proud." Their haughtiness led them to defy God and often to oppress or show contempt for His people, Israel. Furthermore, Moab worshipped pagan gods like Chemosh, engaging in practices abhorrent to the Lord. The destruction of their strongholds, like Kirhareseth, symbolized God's righteous judgment against their self-exaltation and their reliance on earthly power rather than on the true God. This judgment served as a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty over all nations and His intolerance for unrepentant rebellion.

**What is the significance of Kirhareseth in this verse?**

Answer: Kirhareseth (also known as Kir Hareseth or Kir of Moab) was a strategically important, heavily fortified city in Moab, often considered its capital or a primary stronghold. Its mention in Isaiah 16:7 is highly significant because it symbolizes the very core of Moab's national security, strength, and pride. The phrase "the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn" indicates that the destruction would not be superficial but would reach the very bedrock of their defenses, signifying a complete and utter collapse. It highlights the futility of human strength and fortresses against God's decree. The lament over Kirhareseth's foundations underscores that even the most formidable human constructions are powerless when God's judgment is enacted, serving as a powerful object lesson that ultimate security resides only in the Lord, not in earthly strongholds, a theme echoed in [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - Unless the Lord Builds the House").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The lament over Moab in Isaiah 16:7, with its imagery of utter despair and the collapse of earthly strongholds, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. While Moab's wailing is a consequence of divine judgment against their pride and rebellion, it foreshadows the universal human condition of spiritual brokenness and the futility of seeking security apart from God. In Christ, the "foundations" of human self-reliance and sin are truly "stricken" (as in [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")), leading to a recognition of our desperate need for a Savior. Unlike the temporary and ultimately doomed security of Kirhareseth, Jesus Christ is the **unshakeable foundation** upon which all true and lasting hope is built, as declared in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation"). The wailing of Moab for its lost glory contrasts sharply with the joy and peace found in Christ, who promises a kingdom that cannot be shaken ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken")) and a future where "God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain" ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain")). Thus, the judgment on Moab, while severe, ultimately points to the greater judgment of sin at the cross and the ultimate triumph of Christ, who offers eternal security and comfort to all who mourn their spiritual brokenness and build their lives on Him.

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

2 Kings 3:25

And they beat down the cities, and on every good piece of land cast every man his stone, and filled it; and they stopped all the wells of water, and felled all the good trees: only in Kirharaseth left they the stones thereof; howbeit the slingers went about [it], and smote it.

Jeremiah 48:20

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

Isaiah 16:11

Wherefore my bowels shall sound like an harp for Moab, and mine inward parts for Kirharesh.

Isaiah 8:19

And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?

Isaiah 15:1

¶ The burden of Moab. Because in the night Ar of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence; because in the night Kir of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence;

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.

1 Chronicles 16:3

And he dealt to every one of Israel, both man and woman, to every one a loaf of bread, and a good piece of flesh, and a flagon [of wine].