Isaiah 19:14

KJV

The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and they have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken [man] staggereth in his vomit.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} hath mingled {H4537} a perverse {H5773} spirit {H7307} in the midst {H7130} thereof: and they have caused Egypt {H4714} to err {H8582} in every work {H4639} thereof, as a drunken {H7910} man staggereth {H8582} in his vomit {H6892}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI has mixed up their minds with a spirit that distorts judgment, so they make Egypt stagger in whatever she does, like a drunk staggering in his vomit.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD has poured into her a spirit of confusion. Egypt has been led astray in all she does, as a drunkard staggers through his own vomit.

American Standard Version

Jehovah hath mingled a spirit of perverseness in the midst of her; and they have caused Egypt to go astray in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his vomit.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:14 powerfully depicts the profound judgment of God upon ancient Egypt, illustrating a state of utter confusion, disarray, and self-inflicted humiliation. The verse reveals the LORD's active hand in orchestrating the intellectual and spiritual disorientation of Egypt's leadership, leading the entire nation into a state of error and helplessness, likened to a drunkard incapacitated by their own vomit. This vivid imagery underscores the complete breakdown of order and dignity, serving as a stark testament to divine sovereignty over nations and the devastating consequences of spiritual rebellion and reliance on human wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19 is a specific "burden" or prophetic oracle concerning Egypt, part of a larger section of prophecies against foreign nations found in [Isaiah 13-23](/isaiah/13-23 "Isaiah's Oracles Against the Nations"). This chapter details a series of divine judgments that would befall Egypt, leading to internal strife, economic collapse, and a profound loss of wisdom among its leaders. The preceding verses ([Isaiah 19:1-13](/isaiah/19-1-13 "Isaiah 19:1-13 - Judgment on Egypt's Idols and Wisdom")) describe the drying up of the Nile, the failure of their wise counselors, and the internal divisions that would plague the land. Verse 14 specifically zeroes in on the mental and spiritual state of Egyptian leadership and society under God's hand, directly following the declaration that the "princes of Zoan are fools" and the "counsel of the wise counselors of Pharaoh is become brutish" ([Isaiah 19:11](/isaiah/19-11 "Isaiah 19:11 - The Folly of Egypt's Princes")). The subsequent verses ([Isaiah 19:15-25](/isaiah/19-15-25 "Isaiah 19:15-25 - Egypt's Helplessness and Future Blessing")) then describe the utter helplessness of Egypt and, remarkably, a future turning of some Egyptians to the LORD, culminating in a vision of Egypt, Assyria, and Israel as a blessing in the midst of the earth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a dominant world power, renowned for its advanced civilization, engineering marvels, and perceived wisdom. Its stability was largely dependent on the annual flooding of the Nile River, which provided fertile land for agriculture. Egypt often served as a tempting, yet unreliable, ally for Judah against Assyrian or Babylonian threats, a reliance frequently condemned by prophets like Isaiah (e.g., [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1-7 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Rebellious Children")). The Egyptians were also deeply polytheistic, worshipping a vast pantheon of gods, and their leaders often relied on their own wisdom, military might, and idolatrous practices rather than seeking the LORD. The judgment described in this chapter, including the drying of the Nile and the confusion of its wise men, directly targets the sources of Egypt's pride and perceived strength, demonstrating the LORD's supremacy over all their gods and human wisdom. This divine intervention undermines the very foundations of Egyptian power and self-sufficiency, exposing the futility of their trust in anything other than the one true God.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment**, explicitly stating that "The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit," emphasizing God's active and deliberate role in orchestrating the downfall of nations. This theme resonates throughout the Old Testament, where God is consistently portrayed as the one who "removes kings and sets up kings" ([Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")). Secondly, it underscores **Spiritual and Intellectual Confusion**, portraying a deep-seated disorientation that affects the very ability of Egypt's leaders to govern effectively, leading them to "err in every work thereof." This speaks to the biblical principle that when people or nations turn away from God, they risk having their wisdom confounded, as seen in passages that speak of spiritual blindness ([2 Corinthians 4:4](/2_corinthians/4-4 "2 Corinthians 4:4 - The God of This World Blinds Minds")). Finally, the vivid simile of a "drunken [man] staggereth in his vomit" conveys extreme **Humiliation and Disgrace**, depicting a once-proud nation reduced to a state of helpless, self-inflicted degradation, unable to stand or act coherently. This imagery powerfully communicates the severity and demeaning nature of God's judgment upon those who oppose Him and rely on their own flawed wisdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **mingled (Hebrew, _mâçak'_):** From H4537, a primitive root meaning "to mix, especially wine (with spices); mingle." In this context, it implies God's deliberate and active infusion of a specific quality or element into the midst of Egypt. It is not a passive allowance but an intentional blending of a "perverse spirit" into the very fabric of their leadership and society, indicating a divine orchestration of their confusion and ultimate downfall. This suggests a precise, targeted action by God to bring about His judgment.
* **perverse (Hebrew, _ʻavʻeh'_):** From H5773, meaning "perversity." This word denotes distortion, twisting, or perversion. When applied to a "spirit," it suggests a disposition or influence that twists judgment, leading to crooked thinking, moral corruption, and a deviation from what is right or rational. It signifies not merely confusion, but a deliberate spiritual and intellectual disorientation that prevents clear, upright, and effective decision-making, leading to self-destructive outcomes.
* **err (Hebrew, _tâʻâh'_):** From H8582, a primitive root meaning "to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both; (cause to) go astray, deceive, dissemble, (cause to, make to) err, pant, seduce, (make to) stagger, (cause to) wander, be out of the way." This word perfectly captures the comprehensive consequence of the "perverse spirit." It describes a state of being led astray, wandering aimlessly, or stumbling, both literally in action and figuratively in judgment, leading to widespread failure and futility in all their endeavors.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof:"** This opening clause unequivocally attributes the source of Egypt's impending chaos to the sovereign action of the LORD (Yᵉhôvâh, H3068). The verb "mingled" (mâçak) implies a deliberate, intentional infusion of a "perverse spirit" (ʻavʻeh rûwach) into the very core of Egypt's being, specifically its leadership and decision-making processes. This "perverse spirit" is not merely a general confusion but a divinely orchestrated distortion of their wisdom and judgment, causing them to think and act in ways that are self-defeating and contrary to their own best interests. The phrase "in the midst thereof" (qereb) emphasizes that this perversion affects the innermost parts, the very heart and counsel of the nation, corrupting it from within.
* **"and they have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof,"** This clause describes the direct consequence of the "perverse spirit." The "they" refers to the Egyptian leaders and people who, under the influence of this divinely infused perversion, become agents of their own downfall. To "err" (tâʻâh) signifies to wander aimlessly, to go astray, or to stumble. The phrase "in every work thereof" (maʻăseh, H4639) highlights the comprehensive nature of this error; it affects all their actions, plans, policies, and endeavors, leading to widespread failure and futility across all sectors of Egyptian society. Their once-renowned wisdom and efficiency are utterly nullified, resulting in a state of national paralysis and self-sabotage.
* **"as a drunken [man] staggereth in his vomit."** This powerful and graphic simile illustrates the extreme state of degradation and helplessness to which Egypt would be reduced. A "drunken man" (shikkôwr, H7910) is one who has lost control of his faculties, unable to walk straight or think clearly. The addition of "staggereth in his vomit" (qêʼ, H6892) elevates the imagery to one of utter disgrace and incapacitation. It paints a repulsive picture of someone so overwhelmed by their condition that they are not only stumbling but also wallowing in their own filth, devoid of dignity, self-control, or the ability to recover. This vivid comparison emphasizes the complete breakdown of order, the profound humiliation, and the self-inflicted nature of Egypt's ruin under God's judgment, a consequence of their own spiritual and intellectual perversion.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:14 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic message and convey the severity of God's judgment. The most prominent is the **Simile**, vividly employed in "as a drunken [man] staggereth in his vomit." This comparison is not merely descriptive but deeply evocative, transforming an abstract concept of national failure into a visceral, repulsive image. It powerfully conveys the extreme humiliation, incapacitation, and self-degradation of Egypt, emphasizing their complete loss of control and dignity. Furthermore, the verse employs **Anthropomorphism** by attributing the action of "mingling a perverse spirit" directly to the LORD. While God is spirit, this phrase uses human action (mingling) to describe His sovereign, active intervention in the affairs of nations, making His role tangible and comprehensible. The phrase "err in every work thereof" can also be seen as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the comprehensive and pervasive nature of Egypt's failure; it suggests an absolute and universal breakdown across all aspects of their society, rather than just isolated incidents, highlighting the totality of God's judgment. Finally, there's a subtle form of **Personification** where Egypt is depicted as an entity that can "err" and "stagger," giving agency to the nation as a collective body experiencing this profound disorientation and self-inflicted ruin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 19:14 offers profound theological insights into God's sovereign control over human affairs and the devastating consequences of national pride and spiritual rebellion. It asserts that even the most powerful and seemingly wise nations are utterly subject to the divine will. God is not a distant observer but an active participant who can directly intervene to confound human wisdom and bring about the downfall of those who oppose His purposes or rely on their own strength rather than Him. This passage serves as a stark reminder that true wisdom and stability come only from the LORD, and that a nation's departure from His ways can lead to internal chaos and ultimate disgrace, a principle echoed throughout Scripture. It underscores that God's judgment often involves allowing people and nations to experience the full, self-destructive consequences of their own chosen path, highlighting the futility of human wisdom apart from divine guidance.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [Romans 1:28](/romans/1-28 "Romans 1:28 - God Gives Them Up to a Debased Mind")
* [Psalm 33:10](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10 - The LORD Frustrates the Plans of the Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 19:14, though rooted in an ancient prophecy against Egypt, carries timeless lessons for individuals and societies today. It challenges our reliance on human wisdom, political prowess, or economic stability, reminding us that true security and clarity of thought ultimately derive from God. When nations or individuals turn away from divine truth, they risk having their judgment perverted, leading to self-destructive paths and a profound loss of dignity. This verse calls us to humility, urging us to acknowledge God's sovereignty over all things and to seek His wisdom in our personal lives and national decisions. It highlights the spiritual dimension of societal health: a nation's moral and spiritual condition profoundly impacts its ability to function coherently and prosper. We are invited to examine where we place our trust and to consider whether our "works" are truly aligned with divine principles, lest we, too, find ourselves stumbling in confusion, unable to stand upright or make sound choices, much like the drunkard in his own vomit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or our society might we be relying on a "perverse spirit" (distorted wisdom) rather than divine truth?**
* **How does this verse challenge our understanding of human autonomy versus divine sovereignty in the affairs of nations and individuals?**
* **What does "staggereth in his vomit" teach us about the ultimate, humiliating consequences of spiritual rebellion and pride?**
* **How can we, as individuals and communities, actively seek and embody God's wisdom to avoid such spiritual and intellectual disorientation and its destructive outcomes?**

### FAQ
**Why would God "mingle a perverse spirit" in Egypt?**

Answer: The phrase "mingled a perverse spirit" ([Isaiah 19:14](/isaiah/19-14 "Isaiah 19:14 - God Mingles a Perverse Spirit in Egypt")) indicates God's sovereign judgment. It's not that God creates evil, but that He can allow or even actively orchestrate circumstances that expose and exacerbate existing spiritual and moral perversion within a nation. In Egypt's case, their pride, idolatry, and reliance on their own wisdom had already led them astray. God's action here is a judicial one, a consequence of their persistent rebellion. It means He withdrew His guiding hand, allowing their inherent foolishness and spiritual blindness to manifest fully, leading to self-inflicted chaos and demonstrating that apart from Him, human wisdom is utterly futile. This is similar to how God "gives them up" to their depraved minds in [Romans 1:28](/romans/1-28 "Romans 1:28 - God Gives Them Up to a Debased Mind") when people reject Him and suppress the truth.

**What does "err in every work thereof" imply for Egypt?**

Answer: "Err in every work thereof" ([Isaiah 19:14](/isaiah/19-14 "Isaiah 19:14 - Egypt Errs in Every Work")) signifies a comprehensive and pervasive breakdown of all societal functions and endeavors. It implies that every aspect of Egyptian life—from governance and economic policy to agriculture and daily administration—would be plagued by confusion, misjudgment, and futility. Their wise counselors would give foolish advice, their plans would fail, and their efforts would be fruitless. This is a picture of total national paralysis and self-sabotage, where the very actions intended to bring progress or stability instead lead to further decline and disorder. It highlights the devastating impact of spiritual disorientation on practical affairs, demonstrating that true success is impossible when a nation is fundamentally opposed to God's wisdom.

**Is this prophecy fulfilled, or does it have ongoing relevance?**

Answer: The immediate fulfillment of [Isaiah 19:14](/isaiah/19-14 "Isaiah 19:14 - Prophecy Against Egypt") would have been evident in the historical decline and internal strife that Egypt experienced in the centuries following Isaiah's prophecy, particularly during periods of Assyrian and Babylonian dominance. However, like many Old Testament prophecies, it also carries enduring theological and spiritual relevance. It serves as a timeless principle demonstrating God's sovereign control over nations and the consequences of rejecting divine wisdom. The imagery of a nation stumbling in confusion due to a "perverse spirit" remains a powerful metaphor for any society or individual that forsakes God's guidance, leading to spiritual blindness and self-destructive paths. It reminds us that reliance on human intellect apart from God's truth inevitably leads to confusion and futility, a truth applicable across all generations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 19:14, with its depiction of a nation staggering in spiritual and intellectual confusion, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "perverse spirit" that caused Egypt to err highlights humanity's desperate need for true wisdom and clear guidance, a need that no earthly ruler or system can ultimately provide. Christ is revealed as the very **Wisdom of God** ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")) and the **Light of the World** ([John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World")), who dispels the spiritual darkness and perversion that lead to stumbling. Where Egypt's leaders were confused and caused their nation to err, Jesus is the **Good Shepherd** who leads His flock in paths of righteousness ([Psalm 23:3](/psalms/23-3 "Psalm 23:3 - He Leads Me in Paths of Righteousness")) and gives them rest for their souls ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Labor and Are Heavy Laden")). The judgment on Egypt's self-reliance and distorted wisdom points to the universal human condition of spiritual blindness and the futility of human efforts apart from God. Christ, through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, offers liberation from this spiritual perversion, granting believers new minds transformed by His truth ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Be Transformed by the Renewal of Your Mind")) and enabling them to walk in clarity and purpose, no longer staggering in the vomit of their own sin and foolishness. He is the true King who does not cause His people to err but guides them into all truth ([John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth")) and grants them the wisdom from above ([James 3:17](/james/3-17 "James 3:17 - Wisdom from Above")).

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

Ezekiel 14:7

For every one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth in Israel, which separateth himself from me, and setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to a prophet to enquire of him concerning me; I the LORD will answer him by myself:

Ezekiel 14:9

And if the prophet be deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the LORD have deceived that prophet, and I will stretch out my hand upon him, and will destroy him from the midst of my people Israel.

1 Kings 22:20

And the LORD said, Who shall persuade Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramothgilead? And one said on this manner, and another said on that manner.

1 Kings 22:23

Now therefore, behold, the LORD hath put a lying spirit in the mouth of all these thy prophets, and the LORD hath spoken evil concerning thee.

2 Thessalonians 2:11

And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:

Isaiah 47:10

For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy wisdom and thy knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thine heart, I [am], and none else beside me.

Isaiah 47:11

Therefore shall evil come upon thee; thou shalt not know from whence it riseth: and mischief shall fall upon thee; thou shalt not be able to put it off: and desolation shall come upon thee suddenly, [which] thou shalt not know.