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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Isaiah 17:1–5.
We have here the burden of Damascus; the Chaldee paraphrase reads it, The burden of the cup of the curse to drink to Damascus in; and, the ten tribes being in alliance, they must expect to pledge Damascus in this cup of trembling that is to go round. 1. Damascus itself, the head city of Syria, must be destroyed; the houses, it is likely, will be burnt, as least the walls, and gates, and fortifications demolished, and the inhabitants carried away captive, so that for the present it is taken away from being a city, and is reduced not only to a village, but to a ruinous heap, Isa 17:1. Such desolating work as this does sin make with cities. 2. The country towns are abandoned by their inhabitants, frightened or forced away by the invaders: The cities of Aroer (a province of Syria so called) are forsaken (Isa 17:2); the conquered dare not dwell in them, and the conquerors have no occasion for them, nor did they seize them for want, but wantonness; so that the places which should be for men to live in are for flocks to lie down in, which they may do, and none will disturb nor dislodge them. Stately houses are converted into sheep-cotes. It is strange that great conquerors should pride themselves in being common enemies to mankind. But, how unrighteous soever they are, God is righteous in causing those cities to spue out their inhabitants, who by their wickedness had made themselves vile; it is better that flocks should lie down there than that they should harbour such as are in open rebellion against God and virtue. 3. The strongholds of Israel, the kingdom of the ten tribes, will be brought to ruin: The fortress shall cease from Ephraim (Isa 17:3), that in Samaria, and all the rest. They had joined with Syria in invading Judah very unnaturally; and now those that had been partakers in sin should be made partakers in ruin, and justly. When the fortress shall cease from Ephraim, by which Israel will be weakened, the kingdom will cease from Damascus, by which Syria will be ruined. The Syrians were the ring-leaders in that confederacy against Judah, and therefore they are punished first and sorest; and, because they boasted of their alliance with Israel, now that Israel is weakened they are upbraided with those boasts: "The remnant of Syria shall be as the glory of the children of Israel; those few that remain of the Syrians shall be in as mean and despicable a condition as the children of Israel are, and the glory of Israel shall be no relief or reputation to them." Sinful confederacies will be no strength, no stay, to the confederates, when God's judgments come upon them. See here what the glory of Jacob is when God contends with him, and what little reason Syria will have to be proud of resembling the glory of Jacob. (1.) It is wasted like a man in a consumption, Isa 17:4. The glory of Jacob was their numbers, that they were as the sand of the sea for multitude; but this glory shall be made thin, when many are cut off, and few left. Then the fatness of their flesh, which was their pride and security, shall was lean, and the body of the people shall become a perfect skeleton, nothing but skin and bones. Israel died of a lingering disease; the kingdom of the ten tribes wasted gradually; God was to them as a moth, Hos 5:12. Such is all the glory of this world: it soon withers, and is made thin; but thee is a far more exceeding and external weight of glory designed for the spiritual seed of Jacob, which is not subject to any such decay - fatness of God's house, which will not wax lean. (2.) It is all gathered and carried away by the Assyrian army, as the corn is carried out of the field by the husbandmen, Isa 17:5. The corn is the glory of the fields (Psa 65:13); but, when it is reaped and gone, where is the glory? The people had by their sins made themselves ripe for ruin, and their glory was as quickly, as easily, as justly, and as irresistibly, cut down and taken away, as the corn is out of the field by the husbandman. God's judgments are compared to the thrusting in of the sickle when the harvest is ripe, Rev 14:15. And the victorious army, like the careful husbandmen in the valley of Rephaim, where the corn was extraordinary, would not, if they could help it, leave an ear behind, would lose nothing that they could lay their hands on.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
(Verse 1 onwards) Behold, Damascus will cease to be a city, and it will be like a heap of stones in ruin. The deserted cities will be for flocks, and they will rest there, and there will be no one to frighten them away. The help from Ephraim will cease, and the kingdom from Damascus, and the remnant of Syria will be like the glory of the children of Israel, declares the Lord of hosts. As indicated in the title, the calling of the nations is signified by Damascus, those who loved or drank blood, who, after believing in Christ, will cease to be cities of their former way of life, and will be like a heap of stones in ruin. For just as heaps of stones, which were scattered in the fields, are gathered into one mound, so a heap of believers from all nations was gathered together in the downfall of the Jewish people, as they fell, and we rose up. The deserted cities, Aroer, that is, Myrhae, will be for the Ecclesiastical flocks, so that we may inhabit those which the Jews deserted: whether the destroyed idolatry will be rebuilt as the Gospel. And we see that this has been fulfilled in our times: the Serapeum in Alexandria and the temple of Marnas in Gaza have arisen as churches of the Lord, and the cities of Aroer have been prepared for the Evangelical flocks. Aroer, that is, myrice, grows in desert places, according to what is written in the curse of the man who trusts in man and departs from the Lord: He shall be like a myrtle in the desert and shall not see when good comes; but he shall dwell in dryness, in the desert, in a land of saltness and uninhabitable. So those who were once in the desert of the Gentiles, and hated the name of Christians, will serve the flocks of Christ, who will find rest in them, and there will be no one to frighten them, for the Lord will dwell among them, and with the Shepherd present, they will not be able to fear the wolf. Then the help of God will cease from Ephraim, who in this place are understood as the Scribes and Pharisees, according to the prophecy of Hosea, who calls them adversaries of the people of God and names them Ephraim (Hosea 5 and 8). And the kingdom shall cease from Damascus, so that sin shall by no means reign, and the prince of sin, the devil, shall reign in Damascus, which once loved bloodshed; but the remnant of Syria, that is, those from the Gentiles who have believed, shall be as the sons of Israel were before, the kingdom of God being taken away from them and given to the Gentiles, who bear its fruit, as the Lord God of hosts has spoken through all His prophets.
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Summary
Isaiah 17:2 delivers a stark prophetic declaration concerning the utter desolation of the cities of Aroer, signifying the widespread impact of divine judgment. This verse, part of a broader oracle against Damascus and Ephraim, vividly portrays once-thriving urban centers reduced to uninhabited pastureland, where only flocks find undisturbed rest, emphasizing the comprehensive and irreversible nature of God's sovereign wrath against nations that oppose His will and rely on human alliances rather than divine faithfulness.
Context
Literary Context
Isaiah 17:2 is intricately woven into a significant prophetic oracle often titled "The Burden of Damascus" or "Prophecy Against Damascus and Ephraim," which commences in Isaiah 17:1. This chapter immediately follows prophecies concerning Assyria and Philistia in Isaiah 14-16, underscoring God's universal sovereignty over all nations and His role as the orchestrator of world events. The specific historical backdrop for this prophecy is the Syro-Ephraimite War (c. 735-732 BC), a period of intense geopolitical maneuvering. During this conflict, King Rezin of Aram (Damascus) and King Pekah of Israel (Ephraim) formed an alliance to compel King Ahaz of Judah to join their anti-Assyrian coalition. When Ahaz refused, they attacked Judah, as vividly recounted in Isaiah 7. Rather than trusting in the Lord for deliverance, Ahaz unwisely appealed to Tiglath-Pileser III of Assyria for military aid, inadvertently inviting the very superpower that would ultimately devastate all three kingdoms. Therefore, Isaiah 17 serves as a divine pronouncement of judgment, foretelling the downfall of Damascus and its ally Ephraim, and the comprehensive desolation of their territories, including regions like Aroer that were either allied with them or fell within the broader sphere of conflict and conquest.
Historical & Cultural Context
Aroer refers to several cities and regions primarily located in Transjordan, east of the Jordan River. The most prominent Aroer was a city in Moabite territory, near the Arnon River, which had historically been part of the Israelite inheritance for the tribes of Gad or Reuben (e.g., Numbers 32:34). Another Aroer was situated in Ammonite territory. The mention of "cities of Aroer" in Isaiah 17:2 likely refers to the broader Transjordanian region that was frequently contested and subject to various geopolitical influences, including those of Syria and Israel. At the time of Isaiah's prophecy, the Neo-Assyrian Empire was rapidly expanding westward under Tiglath-Pileser III, employing brutal tactics of conquest, deportation, and devastation. The desolation described in the verse is a direct consequence of these Assyrian military campaigns, which the prophet Isaiah consistently portrays as God's instruments of judgment against rebellious nations. The imagery of once-thriving cities being forsaken and becoming pastureland for flocks was a common and terrifying outcome of ancient warfare, signifying complete devastation, depopulation, and the reversal of civilized order, where human habitation gave way to the undisturbed domain of nature.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prevalent within the book of Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores Divine Judgment, demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His readiness to execute righteous judgment upon those who defy His will, engage in idolatry, or oppress His people. The desolation of Aroer is a tangible manifestation of this impending divine wrath, serving as a stark warning to all who place their trust in human alliances and military might rather than in the Lord's omnipotence, a theme echoed in Isaiah 31:1. Secondly, the theme of Desolation and Abandonment is starkly portrayed. The prophecy paints a picture of utter emptiness, where once-bustling cities are "forsaken," implying a complete cessation of human life and activity. This speaks to the severity and comprehensiveness of the judgment, leaving no doubt about its totality. Thirdly, there is a profound Reversal of Order. The powerful imagery of vibrant cities becoming mere pasturelands for "flocks, which shall lie down," signifies a dramatic inversion of societal norms. Human civilization gives way to the undisturbed tranquility of nature, but it is a tranquility born of destruction and absence, not peace. This reversal underscores the futility of human endeavors when they stand opposed to God's purposes, a truth powerfully articulated in Psalm 33:10-11. Finally, the verse subtly touches upon the Futility of Human Schemes, particularly those that ignore or defy God's ultimate plan. The alliance between Damascus and Ephraim, intended to secure their power and thwart Assyria, ultimately leads to their ruin, illustrating that no human power or strategic alliance can ultimately thwart God's sovereign will, as seen in Proverbs 21:30.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc.; commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, [idiom] surely." In Isaiah 17:2, the passive participle "forsaken" (עֲזוּבוֹת, ʻazuvot) conveys a profound sense of abandonment and desertion. It signifies that the cities are not merely empty but have been deliberately left behind, stripped of their inhabitants and human presence, emphasizing the complete cessation of life and activity. This term underscores the deliberate and comprehensive nature of the desolation, a direct consequence of divine judgment.
Meaning "an arrangement, i.e., muster (of animals); drove, flock, herd." This word refers specifically to a group of sheep or goats, highlighting the pastoral nature of the imagery. Its use here is crucial for the stark contrast it creates: once-bustling human habitations are now reduced to grazing grounds for animals. This transformation vividly illustrates the reversal of order and the complete absence of human civilization, emphasizing the extent of the judgment.
A primitive root meaning "to shudder with terror; hence, to fear; also to hasten (with anxiety); be (make) afraid, be careful, discomfit, fray (away), quake, tremble." The Niphal form, "shall make them afraid" (מַחֲרִיד, macharid), implies causing terror or disturbance. The phrase "none shall make them afraid" is profoundly ironic. It indicates not a peaceful tranquility for the flocks due to human benevolence or protection, but rather an absolute absence of human beings—there is no one left to disturb or frighten the grazing animals because the human population has vanished, underscoring the totality of the desolation and the grim silence that follows judgment.
Verse Breakdown
"The cities of Aroer are forsaken:"
This opening clause immediately establishes the grim reality of impending or actual desolation. "Aroer" refers to specific Transjordanian cities, indicating a geographically precise judgment that extends beyond the primary targets of Damascus and Ephraim. The term "forsaken" (עֲזוּבוֹת) emphasizes a complete and deliberate abandonment, suggesting that these once-inhabited urban centers are now devoid of human life, left desolate and empty, a testament to the severity of the divine decree.
"they shall be for flocks,"
This clause describes the new, degraded purpose or state of the forsaken cities. Instead of housing people, conducting commerce, or serving as strategic strongholds, they will now serve as mere grazing grounds. The land, once cultivated and built upon by humans, reverts to a more primitive, wild state, suitable only for the roaming of animals. This imagery powerfully conveys the utter destruction of human civilization and its replacement by nature's undisturbed domain.
"which shall lie down,"
This phrase further develops the imagery of the flocks. "Lie down" (רָבַץ, râbats) implies a state of rest, security, and undisturbed peace for the animals. It suggests that the flocks will find ample pasture and a safe environment, contrasting sharply with the previous human activity and the turmoil of war that led to the cities' abandonment. This detail highlights the completeness of the desolation—even the animals are at peace because there is no human presence to disturb them.
"and none shall make them afraid."
This concluding clause is profoundly ironic and serves as the chilling climax of the verse. While it superficially suggests a peaceful existence for the animals, its true meaning is grim. The absence of anyone to "make them afraid" is not due to a benevolent human presence ensuring their safety, but precisely because there are no humans left at all. The total depopulation of the cities means there is no one to disturb the flocks, highlighting the absolute and terrifying completeness of the judgment and desolation. It paints a picture of eerie silence and utter emptiness.
Literary Devices
Isaiah 17:2 is rich in Imagery, painting a vivid and desolate picture. The transformation of once-bustling "cities" into mere pastureland for "flocks" creates a powerful visual contrast between human civilization and the wild, emphasizing the complete reversal of order. The phrase "which shall lie down" evokes a sense of undisturbed peace for the animals, further highlighting the chilling absence of human activity. This verse also employs profound Irony. The peace experienced by the flocks is not a blessing for humanity but a grim consequence of its eradication. The fact that "none shall make them afraid" underscores the terrifying completeness of the human absence, rather than a pastoral idyll. Furthermore, the description verges on Hyperbole in its depiction of total and absolute desolation, where no human remains to disturb even a grazing animal, serving to emphasize the severity and scope of God's judgment. The stark Contrast between the former vibrant life of cities and their future as desolate grazing lands is central to the verse's impact, underscoring the transience of human power and the enduring consequences of divine judgment.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Isaiah 17:2 serves as a profound theological statement on God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and His righteous judgment. It underscores that no earthly power, no matter how mighty or strategically allied, can ultimately withstand or thwart the divine will. The desolation of Aroer, a region often contested and considered significant, demonstrates that God's judgment is comprehensive and reaches even into the farthest corners of human influence. This verse reminds us that rebellion against God, whether through idolatry, injustice, or arrogant self-reliance, carries severe and inevitable consequences. It vividly portrays the transience and fragility of human achievements—cities, empires, and alliances—which can be reduced to ruins, serving as a stark contrast to the eternal and unchanging nature of God's kingdom and His word. Ultimately, the passage calls for a reorientation of trust, away from fleeting human strength and toward the omnipotent hand of the Lord, whose prophecies are always fulfilled and whose purposes cannot be thwarted.
Reflection and Application
Isaiah 17:2 offers a sobering yet vital message for contemporary believers, confronting us with the reality of God's unwavering justice and His ultimate control over human history. In a world where nations rise and fall, and where human ingenuity often leads to a false sense of security, this verse calls us to profound humility and unwavering dependence on the Divine. It reminds us that our cities, our economies, our technologies, and our political alliances are temporal and fragile, subject to the sovereign will of God. The desolation of Aroer serves as a powerful metaphor for the inevitable consequences of turning away from God, whether individually or corporately. It compels us to examine where our trust truly lies: in fleeting human power and accomplishments, or in the eternal, unchanging God? This passage encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, investing our lives in what truly lasts—God's kingdom and His righteousness—rather than building our hopes on foundations that can be swept away by the winds of judgment. It also prompts us to consider the spiritual desolation that can occur in lives or communities that forsake God, becoming barren and unproductive, devoid of true peace, purpose, and the vibrant presence of the Holy Spirit.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of Aroer being mentioned specifically in this prophecy?
Aroer refers to several cities and a region in Transjordan, east of the Jordan River, which had historical ties to Israel but were often contested by Moab, Ammon, and Syria. Its specific mention in Isaiah 17:2 signifies the widespread and comprehensive nature of the divine judgment. While the primary focus of Isaiah 17 is on Damascus (Syria) and Ephraim (the northern kingdom of Israel), the inclusion of Aroer indicates that the judgment would extend beyond the immediate capitals to their allied territories or regions caught in the path of the Assyrian invasion, which God used as His instrument. It underscores that the desolation would be pervasive, affecting even distant or less prominent areas, demonstrating the totality of God's judgment across the land.
How does the phrase "none shall make them afraid" contribute to the overall message of the verse?
The phrase "none shall make them afraid" is a powerful and deeply ironic statement that intensifies the message of total desolation. On the surface, it might sound like a promise of peace for the flocks, suggesting a tranquil pastoral scene. However, in context, it highlights the absolute and terrifying absence of human life. The reason the flocks are undisturbed and can "lie down" in peace is not because humans are protecting them, but precisely because there are no humans left at all to disturb or threaten them. This emphasizes the complete depopulation and ruin of the cities and surrounding areas, underscoring the severity and finality of God's judgment against the rebellious nations. It paints a grim picture of a land utterly devoid of its former inhabitants, where only wild animals now roam freely and without fear of human presence.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Isaiah 17:2 directly prophesies a historical judgment against specific nations, its underlying themes find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The desolation of earthly cities and the transience of human power foreshadow the ultimate and final judgment that will fall upon all who reject God, a judgment perfectly executed by Christ, who is appointed by the Father as the final judge of the living and the dead (Acts 17:31). Unlike the temporary, desolate peace found by flocks in a forsaken Aroer, Christ offers a true and lasting peace, not born of emptiness but of redemption, reconciliation with God, and the indwelling of His Spirit, a peace He gives to His followers that the world cannot provide (John 14:27). The "flocks" that find rest in the desolate cities of Aroer point forward to Christ as the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for His sheep, gathering them into an eternal flock that will never be forsaken by God (John 10:11; John 10:27-28). The fear of human disturbance in Aroer's past is replaced by the ultimate removal of fear for those in Christ, who are adopted into God's family and receive a Spirit of adoption, not of slavery to fear, enabling them to cry "Abba, Father" (Romans 8:15). Ultimately, the temporary nature of earthly cities and kingdoms, as seen in Aroer's demise, stands in stark contrast to the eternal, unshakeable kingdom that believers receive through Christ, a kingdom that will never be forsaken or fall into desolation, for it is founded upon the immovable King of kings (Hebrews 12:28; Revelation 11:15).