Isaiah 16:8

KJV

For the fields of Heshbon languish, [and] the vine of Sibmah: the lords of the heathen have broken down the principal plants thereof, they are come [even] unto Jazer, they wandered [through] the wilderness: her branches are stretched out, they are gone over the sea.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the fields {H7709} of Heshbon {H2809} languish {H535}, and the vine {H1612} of Sibmah {H7643}: the lords {H1167} of the heathen {H1471} have broken down {H1986} the principal plants {H8291} thereof, they are come {H5060} even unto Jazer {H3270}, they wandered {H8582} through the wilderness {H4057}: her branches {H7976} are stretched out {H5203}, they are gone over {H5674} the sea {H3220}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the grainfields of Heshbon are withering, also the vineyards of Sibmah, whose red grapes overpowered rulers of nations - once they reached as far as Ya'zer and trailed out into the desert; their spreading branches even crossed the sea.

Berean Standard Bible

For the fields of Heshbon have withered, along with the grapevines of Sibmah. The rulers of the nations have trampled its choicest vines, which had reached as far as Jazer and spread toward the desert. Their shoots had spread out and passed over the sea.

American Standard Version

For the fields of Heshbon languish, and the vine of Sibmah; the lords of the nations have broken down the choice branches thereof, which reached even unto Jazer, which wandered into the wilderness; its shoots were spread abroad, they passed over the sea.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 16:8 presents a profound lament over the catastrophic desolation of Moab, focusing intensely on the destruction of its famed agricultural regions. The prophet vividly depicts the withering of the fertile fields of Heshbon and the ruin of the prized vineyards of Sibmah, whose extensive branches once symbolized Moab's widespread prosperity and influence, even reaching across the sea. This powerful imagery underscores the comprehensive nature of the impending divine judgment, executed through foreign powers, which will strip Moab of its economic foundation, its source of national joy, and its cherished identity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 16:8 is an integral part of a larger prophetic oracle against Moab, found in [Isaiah chapters 15 and 16](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15-16 - Prophecy Against Moab's Desolation"). This section functions as a lament, expressing deep sorrow over the impending destruction of a neighboring nation, despite its historical antagonism towards Israel. The preceding verses in [Isaiah 16](/isaiah/16 "Isaiah 16 - Moab's Plea and Prophecy of Doom") describe Moab's desperate, yet ultimately futile, plea for refuge and its characteristic pride, which seals its fate. The imagery of agricultural ruin in verse 8 serves as a direct and vivid consequence of the divine judgment announced throughout this oracle, emphasizing the complete reversal of Moab's once-flourishing state. The lament transitions from general desolation to specific details of economic collapse, setting the stage for the final declaration of Moab's downfall and the specific timeline given in [Isaiah 16:14](/isaiah/16-14 "Isaiah 16:14 - Three Years Until Moab's Shame").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Moab was an ancient kingdom situated east of the Dead Sea, renowned for its fertile plains, particularly the regions around Heshbon and Sibmah. These areas were celebrated for their rich vineyards and abundant harvests, making agriculture the cornerstone of Moab's economy and a potent symbol of its national identity and prosperity. The phrase "her branches are stretched out, they are gone over the sea" highlights the extensive reach and fame of Moabite wine, suggesting its export and renown even in distant lands, possibly across the Mediterranean or the Dead Sea. Historically, Moab frequently found itself in conflict with Israel, and its pride, idolatry, and hostility were often condemned by the prophets, as seen in [Numbers 22-24](/numbers/22 "Numbers 22-24 - Balaam and Balak"). The "lords of the heathen" mentioned in the verse likely refer to invading armies, such as the Assyrians or Babylonians, whom God would use as instruments of His judgment to bring about this widespread desolation, fulfilling prophecies of divine retribution against nations that opposed His will and exalted themselves.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Isaiah and broader biblical prophecy. Firstly, it highlights the **Devastation of Prosperity**, showing how what was once a source of national pride and wealth—the "fields of Heshbon" and "vine of Sibmah"—will "languish" and be "broken down." This reversal underscores the transient nature of earthly security and material abundance when divorced from divine favor, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 11:28](/proverbs/11-28 "Proverbs 11:28 - The Folly of Trusting in Riches"). Secondly, the passage emphasizes **Divine Judgment**, where "the lords of the heathen" act as agents, but the ultimate orchestrator of Moab's ruin is God Himself, responding to Moab's persistent pride and arrogance ([Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Pride and Arrogance")). This illustrates God's sovereignty over all nations, using even pagan empires to execute His righteous decrees, as seen elsewhere in [Isaiah 10:5-7](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-7 - Assyria as God's Instrument"). Finally, the imagery of destruction reaching "unto Jazer" and branches stretching "over the sea" conveys the **Widespread Ruin** and thoroughness of the desolation, demonstrating that no part of Moab's cherished identity or influence would escape the judgment, foreshadowing the complete destruction of nations that defy God, as described in [Jeremiah 48](/jeremiah/48 "Jeremiah 48 - Prophecy Against Moab").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **languish (Hebrew, _ʼâmal'_):** From H535, meaning "to droop; by implication to be sick, to mourn; languish, be weak, wax feeble." This word vividly portrays the state of the once-fertile fields, not merely being destroyed but actively withering and dying, as if afflicted by a debilitating disease. It evokes a sense of deep sorrow and irreversible decline, reflecting the emotional and economic impact of the loss on the Moabite people.
* **vine (Hebrew, _gephen'_):** From H1612, meaning "a vine (as twining), especially the grape; vine, tree." This term is central to the agricultural imagery, representing the very essence of Moab's prosperity and the source of its famed wine. The destruction of the "vine of Sibmah" signifies an attack on the core of Moab's economic and cultural identity, striking at the heart of its national pride.
* **principal plants (Hebrew, _sârûwq'_):** From H8291, meaning "a grapevine; principal plant." This refers to a superior quality of vine, specifically a "choice vine" or "noble vine" (as rendered in other translations). The breaking down of these "principal plants" emphasizes that the destruction is not merely superficial but targets the very best and most valuable assets of Moab, signifying a complete and utter loss of its pride, wealth, and status.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the fields of Heshbon languish, [and] the vine of Sibmah:"** This opening clause immediately establishes a tone of lament and profound devastation. Heshbon and Sibmah were renowned for their agricultural bounty, particularly their vineyards, which were a source of national pride and economic stability. The verb "languish" (H535) suggests a slow, painful decay rather than sudden destruction, emphasizing the deep suffering inflicted upon the land and its inhabitants. The pairing of fields and vines highlights the comprehensive nature of the agricultural ruin, affecting both general crops and specific, prized produce.
* **"the lords of the heathen have broken down the principal plants thereof,"** This identifies the agents of destruction: foreign rulers and their armies ("lords of the heathen," H1167, H1471). The phrase "broken down" (H1986) implies a forceful, violent, and deliberate act of destruction, not merely neglect. The specific target, "the principal plants" (H8291), indicates that the choicest, most valuable vines—symbols of Moab's elite wealth and pride—are being systematically destroyed, ensuring a thorough and lasting economic collapse.
* **"they are come [even] unto Jazer, they wandered [through] the wilderness:"** This describes the geographical extent of the devastation, confirming its widespread nature. Jazer was another significant city in Moabite territory, indicating that the invaders' destructive reach extended far into the land. The phrase "wandered through the wilderness" (H4057, H8582) can be interpreted in two ways: either the relentless, unhindered advance of the invaders through even desolate areas, or the displacement of Moab's inhabitants, forced to wander in desolation and despair, stripped of their homes and livelihoods.
* **"her branches are stretched out, they are gone over the sea."** This clause powerfully underscores the former glory and far-reaching fame of Moab's vineyards. The "branches" (H7976) metaphorically represent the widespread renown and extensive export of Moabite wine, signifying its international recognition and trade. The idea that they "are gone over the sea" (H3220, H5674) emphasizes that Moab's produce was known and traded internationally, making its present utter destruction all the more poignant and emphasizing the complete fall from its former prominence and influence.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 16:8 is rich with **Imagery**, painting a vivid and sorrowful picture of agricultural destruction that serves as a powerful **Symbolism** for national ruin. The "fields of Heshbon" and "vine of Sibmah" are not merely literal crops but represent Moab's prosperity, joy, and national identity, making their destruction a direct assault on the nation's very being. The **Personification** of the fields "languishing" imbues the land with a sense of suffering and decay, making the devastation more visceral and empathetic. The phrase "principal plants" employs **Synecdoche**, where a part (the choicest vines) stands for the whole (Moab's entire agricultural wealth and pride), emphasizing the quality and significance of what is lost. The description of branches stretching "over the sea" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extraordinary fame and extensive reach of Moab's produce, thereby intensifying the tragedy of its complete and widespread destruction. The overall tone of the passage is one of **Lament**, a mournful expression of profound sorrow over a catastrophic loss, characteristic of prophetic judgment oracles that grieve over the consequences of sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 16:8 powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that earthly prosperity and national strength, no matter how extensive or renowned, are ultimately transient and subject to divine sovereignty. Moab's famed vineyards and fertile fields, symbols of its pride and security, are depicted as utterly vulnerable to God's righteous judgment. This passage underscores that God uses various instruments, even "the lords of the heathen"—pagan empires—to accomplish His purposes, demonstrating His absolute control over the rise and fall of nations. It serves as a stark reminder that persistent pride, idolatry, and rebellion against God inevitably lead to desolation, challenging any nation or individual to place their ultimate trust not in fleeting material wealth or human power, but in the enduring faithfulness and righteous character of the Almighty, whose kingdom alone is eternal.

* [Jeremiah 48:33](/jeremiah/48-33 "Jeremiah 48:33 - Joy Removed from Moab's Vineyards")
* [Psalm 37:2](/psalm/37-2 "Psalm 37:2 - The Fading of the Wicked")
* [Revelation 18:11-17](/revelation/18-11-17 "Revelation 18:11-17 - Lament Over Babylon's Lost Riches")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 16:8 calls us to a profound self-examination regarding where we place our security and identity. Just as Moab's pride was inextricably tied to its material abundance and agricultural renown, we too can easily become complacent, deriving our sense of worth and stability from possessions, achievements, societal status, or even national strength. This verse serves as a sobering reminder that all earthly foundations are temporary and susceptible to decay or destruction, ultimately unable to provide lasting security. It challenges us to consider what truly "languishes" in our own lives—perhaps our spiritual vitality, our relationships, our commitment to God, or our pursuit of eternal values—when we prioritize fleeting comforts and worldly successes over eternal truths. The passage encourages us to cultivate a posture of humility and radical dependence on God, recognizing that true and lasting joy, security, and fruitfulness come only from Him. It also prompts us to reflect on the broader implications of national sin and the reality of divine judgment, urging us to pray for our nations and to live righteously as individuals, understanding that God's justice extends over all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "fields of Heshbon" or "vines of Sibmah" in my own life or culture might I be placing too much trust in for security or identity?**
* **How does the transient nature of Moab's prosperity challenge my own understanding of true security, success, and lasting joy?**
* **In what ways might I, or my community, exhibit a pride or self-reliance that could lead to spiritual "languishing" or eventual desolation?**
* **How can I better align my values, priorities, and ultimate hope with God's eternal kingdom, rather than the fleeting and vulnerable kingdoms of this world?**

### FAQ
**Why is Moab's agricultural prosperity so central to this prophecy?**

Answer: Moab's agricultural prosperity, particularly its vineyards in Heshbon and Sibmah, was not just an economic fact but a deep source of national pride, joy, and security. By targeting these specific elements, the prophecy in [Isaiah 16:8](/isaiah/16-8 "Isaiah 16:8 - The Desolation of Moab's Vineyards") underscores the comprehensive and deeply personal nature of the impending judgment. It signifies that the very foundation of Moab's identity and well-being would be utterly destroyed, turning its source of celebration and self-reliance into a profound cause for lament. This emphasis makes the judgment more poignant and complete, illustrating that God's judgment strikes at the heart of a nation's misplaced trust in worldly glory.

**Who are "the lords of the heathen" and what is their role in this prophecy?**

Answer: "The lords of the heathen" (H1167, H1471) refers to foreign rulers and their armies, typically powerful empires of the time such as Assyria or later Babylon. In biblical prophecy, these nations, though pagan and often hostile to Israel, are frequently portrayed as instruments in God's hand. As seen in [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria as God's Rod of Anger"), God uses them, even unknowingly, to execute His divine judgment against other nations, including Moab, for their pride, idolatry, and opposition to His will. They are the physical agents of destruction, but God is the ultimate sovereign orchestrator of the events, demonstrating His absolute control over human history and the destinies of nations.

**What does it mean that the branches "are gone over the sea"?**

Answer: The phrase "her branches are stretched out, they are gone over the sea" is a powerful image indicating the widespread fame and extensive reach of Moab's agricultural produce, especially its renowned wine. It suggests that Moabite wine was not only consumed locally but was exported and celebrated in distant lands, possibly across the Dead Sea or even the Mediterranean. This detail emphasizes the magnitude of Moab's former glory, influence, and economic success, making the subsequent description of its utter desolation all the more tragic and complete. It highlights that even its most celebrated and far-reaching assets would be destroyed, leaving nothing untouched by the judgment and underscoring the completeness of its downfall.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 16:8, while detailing the judgment upon Moab's earthly prosperity and pride, ultimately points to a greater reality fulfilled in Christ. The lament over the "languishing" fields and "broken down" vines of Moab foreshadows the transient nature of all earthly kingdoms and their fleeting glories, contrasting sharply with the eternal and unshakable kingdom of God established through Jesus. Where Moab's "principal plants" were destroyed, Christ declares Himself to be the [true vine](/john/15-1 "John 15:1 - Jesus, the True Vine"), from whom all spiritual fruitfulness flows, a vine that will never languish or be broken down. His kingdom is not built on perishable agricultural wealth, human power, or national pride, but on divine righteousness and an eternal covenant. The judgment on Moab for its pride and rebellion finds its ultimate resolution in Christ, who bore the full weight of God's judgment against sin on the cross, offering redemption and reconciliation to all who believe. Through Him, believers are grafted into a new, eternal "vine" that yields imperishable fruit, receiving an inheritance that is [imperishable, undefiled, and unfading](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance"), kept in heaven. Thus, the devastation of Moab's earthly kingdom serves as a stark reminder of the necessity of turning from reliance on worldly things to finding true and lasting hope in the sovereign reign of Christ, the King of an everlasting kingdom whose dominion knows no end ([Daniel 7:14](/daniel/7-14 "Daniel 7:14 - Christ's Everlasting Dominion")).

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

Numbers 32:38

And Nebo, and Baalmeon, (their names being changed,) and Shibmah: and gave other names unto the cities which they builded.

Isaiah 15:4

And Heshbon shall cry, and Elealeh: their voice shall be heard [even] unto Jahaz: therefore the armed soldiers of Moab shall cry out; his life shall be grievous unto him.

Jeremiah 27:6

And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him.

Jeremiah 27:7

And all nations shall serve him, and his son, and his son's son, until the very time of his land come: and then many nations and great kings shall serve themselves of him.

2 Samuel 1:21

Ye mountains of Gilboa, [let there be] no dew, neither [let there be] rain, upon you, nor fields of offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, [as though he had] not [been] anointed with oil.

Joshua 13:25

And their coast was Jazer, and all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the children of Ammon, unto Aroer that [is] before Rabbah;

Numbers 32:3

Ataroth, and Dibon, and Jazer, and Nimrah, and Heshbon, and Elealeh, and Shebam, and Nebo, and Beon,