Isaiah 19:15

KJV

Neither shall there be [any] work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush, may do.

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither shall there be any work {H4639} for Egypt {H4714}, which the head {H7218} or tail {H2180}, branch {H3712} or rush {H100}, may do {H6213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Nobody in Egypt will find work to do - neither head nor tail, neither [tall] palm frond nor [lowly] reed.

Berean Standard Bible

There is nothing Egypt can do— head or tail, palm or reed.

American Standard Version

Neither shall there be for Egypt any work, which head or tail, palm-branch or rush, may do.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:15 encapsulates the profound and comprehensive nature of God's judgment upon ancient Egypt, prophesying a state of utter national paralysis and helplessness. This verse serves as a stark summary of the preceding woes, indicating that no segment of Egyptian society—from its highest leadership to its most common laborers, from its strongest assets to its weakest—would be able to perform any meaningful work or offer any effective solution. It vividly portrays a complete societal and economic breakdown, a direct consequence of divine decree against a proud nation that relied on its own wisdom and power rather than on the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19:15 concludes the initial section of a significant prophetic oracle against Egypt, which spans [Isaiah 19:1-15](/isaiah/19-1 "Isaiah 19:1-15 - Prophecy of Judgment on Egypt"). The preceding verses detail a series of devastating judgments: internal strife and civil war ([Isaiah 19:2-3](/isaiah/19-2 "Isaiah 19:2-3 - Internal Strife in Egypt")), the drying up of the Nile River leading to economic collapse and famine ([Isaiah 19:5-10](/isaiah/19-5 "Isaiah 19:5-10 - Economic Collapse and Famine")), and the utter failure of Egypt's renowned wise men and counselors ([Isaiah 19:11-14](/isaiah/19-11 "Isaiah 19:11-14 - Failure of Egypt's Wisdom")). Verse 15 acts as a climactic summation, emphasizing that the cumulative effect of these judgments would render the entire nation utterly impotent. It sets the stage for a dramatic shift in the latter part of the chapter, where a surprising future redemption and conversion of Egypt are foretold ([Isaiah 19:18-25](/isaiah/19-18 "Isaiah 19:18-25 - Future Redemption and Conversion of Egypt")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a dominant world power, renowned for its advanced civilization, military strength, agricultural prosperity (due to the Nile), and profound wisdom traditions. It often served as a strategic ally or rival for Judah and Israel, and its gods were considered mighty. The prophecy in Isaiah 19 directly challenges Egypt's self-sufficiency and idolatry, particularly its reliance on the Nile (which symbolized its lifeblood and prosperity) and its "wise men" (who represented its intellectual and spiritual prowess). The drying of the Nile and the paralysis of its people would have been the ultimate humiliation for a nation whose identity and power were so intrinsically linked to these elements. This oracle would have resonated deeply with Judah, who often looked to Egypt for help against Assyria, reminding them that human alliances were futile without God's favor.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating God's absolute control over nations and their destinies. Even a mighty empire like Egypt is subject to His will, highlighting that all human power is ultimately subservient to the Creator. Secondly, it emphasizes **Universal Paralysis and Comprehensive Breakdown**, using vivid imagery to convey that no part of society, from top to bottom, would be exempt from the incapacitation. The "head or tail" idiom, also found in [Deuteronomy 28:13](/deuteronomy/28-13 "The Head and Tail Idiom"), signifies the entire social hierarchy, while "branch or rush" further expands this to include both the strong and the weak, the prominent and the insignificant. This imagery reinforces the idea that Egypt's internal strength and external capabilities would be completely nullified. Thirdly, the prophecy implicitly addresses the **Consequences of Pride and Idolatry**, as Egypt's downfall is a direct result of its reliance on its own wisdom, resources, and false gods rather than on the true God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **work (Hebrew, _maʻăseh'_):** From the root `עָשָׂה` (`ʻâsâh`), this word denotes an action, deed, labor, or product. In this context, it signifies any productive activity, accomplishment, or output. The declaration "neither shall there be any work" implies a complete cessation of all meaningful and effective activity, leading to national stagnation and an inability to achieve anything.
* **head (Hebrew, _rôʼsh'_):** This term literally means "head" but is frequently used figuratively to denote leadership, chief, beginning, or highest rank. It represents the most prominent and influential members of society—the rulers, counselors, and elite. The inclusion of the "head" emphasizes that even those in positions of power and wisdom would be utterly incapable of providing direction or solutions.
* **rush (Hebrew, _ʼagmôwn'_):** This refers to a bulrush or reed, a weak plant growing in marshy areas. It stands in stark contrast to the "branch" (which implies strength or prominence) and symbolizes the lowest, weakest, or most insignificant members of society, or perhaps even the most common and easily overlooked elements of the nation's fabric. Its inclusion ensures that the prophecy of paralysis is exhaustive, encompassing every single component of Egypt.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither shall there be [any] work for Egypt":** This initial clause establishes the core message of the verse: a complete and utter cessation of productive activity and effective functioning within the nation of Egypt. It signifies a state of national paralysis, where no one can accomplish anything meaningful or contribute to the nation's well-being. This "work" encompasses all forms of labor, planning, and execution—economic, political, and social.
* **"which the head or tail":** This idiomatic expression is a merism, representing the entirety of society from the highest to the lowest ranks. The "head" symbolizes the leaders, the elite, the wise, and those in authority. The "tail" represents the common people, the subservient, or those at the lowest rung of the social ladder. The phrase emphasizes that *everyone*, regardless of their status or position, would be rendered impotent and unable to act.
* **"branch or rush, may do.":** This second pair of contrasting terms further reinforces the comprehensive nature of Egypt's paralysis. A "branch" (Hebrew: `kippâh`) typically refers to a strong, prominent part of a tree, symbolizing strength, significance, or perhaps the nation's strong points. A "rush" (Hebrew: `ʼagmôwn`) is a weak, common reed, symbolizing weakness, insignificance, or the most vulnerable aspects. Together, these terms convey that neither the strong nor the weak, neither the significant nor the insignificant, would be able to "do" (accomplish, perform) anything. This reiterates the total loss of national capability and the pervasive nature of the divine judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:15 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of comprehensive judgment. The most prominent is **Merism**, seen in the contrasting pairs "head or tail" and "branch or rush." Merism is a rhetorical device where two contrasting parts are used to represent a whole (e.g., "heaven and earth" for the entire cosmos). Here, "head or tail" encompasses all social strata, from the highest leadership to the lowest commoner, while "branch or rush" signifies everything from the strongest and most prominent elements to the weakest and most insignificant. This dual application of merism creates a profound sense of **Totality** and **Universality**, emphasizing that absolutely no part of Egyptian society would be exempt from the divine judgment and subsequent paralysis. Furthermore, the verse uses **Symbolism** and **Metaphor** where "work" symbolizes all productive activity and national capability, and the "head, tail, branch, and rush" serve as metaphors for the various components and capabilities of the nation. The stark imagery paints a picture of complete national incapacitation and helplessness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 19:15 serves as a potent reminder of God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and human endeavors. It illustrates that even the mightiest empires, with their advanced civilizations, vast resources, and renowned wisdom, are utterly dependent on the divine will. When a nation, like ancient Egypt, succumbs to pride, idolatry, and self-reliance, turning away from the Lord, its strength can be swiftly and completely nullified. This verse underscores the biblical principle that human plans and power are ultimately futile without God's favor, and that true security and prosperity come only from Him. It is a testament to God's justice in judging nations for their rebellion, while also setting the stage for His eventual redemptive purposes even for those who were His adversaries.

* [Deuteronomy 28:13](/deuteronomy/28-13 "Deuteronomy 28:13 - The Head and Tail Idiom")
* [Jeremiah 25:15-38](/jeremiah/25-15 "Jeremiah 25:15-38 - God's Judgment on All Nations")
* [Proverbs 21:30-31](/proverbs/21-30 "Proverbs 21:30-31 - No Wisdom Against the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The prophecy against Egypt, culminating in the complete cessation of "work" for the nation, offers timeless lessons for individuals and societies today. It challenges the pervasive human tendency to rely on our own strength, wisdom, and resources, rather than on the sovereign God. In a world that often measures success by productivity, innovation, and self-sufficiency, this verse reminds us that true capability and lasting fruitfulness are ultimately derived from divine favor. When we or our communities turn away from God, pursuing pride, idolatry (whether of wealth, power, or self), or humanistic philosophies, we risk experiencing a spiritual, moral, or even practical paralysis, where our efforts become fruitless and our direction is lost. It calls us to humility, repentance, and a profound dependence on God, acknowledging that His wisdom and power far surpass any human endeavor. Our "work" in life, whether professional, relational, or spiritual, only truly flourishes when aligned with His will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or our society might we be relying on our own "head or tail, branch or rush" rather than on God's guidance and power?**
* **What forms of "work" or productivity might be rendered meaningless if God's favor is withdrawn from our endeavors?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of success and capability, both personally and communally?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper dependence on God in my daily life and work?**

### FAQ

**What does "head or tail, branch or rush" mean in this verse?**

Answer: This phrase is a powerful example of **merism**, a literary device where two contrasting parts are used to represent a complete whole. "Head or tail" refers to the entire social hierarchy of Egypt, from its highest leaders and most influential figures ("head") to its lowest commoners and most subservient members ("tail"). This idiom is also found in [Deuteronomy 28:13](/deuteronomy/28-13 "Deuteronomy 28:13 - The Head and Tail Idiom"), where being "the head and not the tail" signifies leadership and prominence. Similarly, "branch or rush" encompasses all aspects of the nation's strength and weakness. A "branch" (Hebrew: `kippâh`) symbolizes strength, prominence, or significant parts, while a "rush" (Hebrew: `ʼagmôwn`) represents weakness, insignificance, or common elements like a fragile reed. Together, these two pairs emphasize that absolutely no part of Egyptian society—no person, no institution, no resource, no capability, whether strong or weak, prominent or obscure—would be able to perform any meaningful "work" or achieve anything. It signifies a total and pervasive paralysis.

**Is this prophecy only about ancient Egypt, or does it have broader relevance?**

Answer: While Isaiah 19:15 is specifically addressed to ancient Egypt and foretells a historical judgment, its underlying principles have profound and timeless relevance. The prophecy serves as a powerful illustration of God's **sovereignty** over all nations and His justice in judging those who are proud, idolatrous, and self-reliant. It reminds us that human power, wisdom, and resources are ultimately finite and can be rendered ineffective without divine favor. Any nation or individual that turns away from God and relies solely on its own strength risks experiencing a "paralysis" of purpose, productivity, and peace. However, it's also crucial to remember that the broader prophecy in [Isaiah 19](/isaiah/19 "Isaiah 19 - Prophecy Concerning Egypt") does not end with judgment. It remarkably transitions to a future hope, where Egypt, along with Assyria, will eventually turn to the Lord and be blessed alongside Israel ([Isaiah 19:18-25](/isaiah/19-18 "Isaiah 19:18-25 - Future Redemption of Egypt")). This highlights God's ultimate redemptive plan for all peoples, even amidst His righteous judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 19:15, with its depiction of a nation utterly paralyzed and incapable of any "work," powerfully foreshadows humanity's spiritual condition apart from Christ. Under the dominion of sin, humanity is spiritually impotent, unable to perform any "work" that truly pleases God or secures eternal life. As [Ephesians 2:1](/ephesians/2-1 "Ephesians 2:1 - Dead in Sins") declares, we were "dead in the trespasses and sins," completely unable to move or act righteously. This spiritual paralysis affects every part of us, from the "head" of our intellect and will, which cannot comprehend divine truth ([1 Corinthians 2:14](/1_corinthians/2-14 "1 Corinthians 2:14 - Natural Man Cannot Understand")), to the "tail" of our actions, which are inherently flawed. We cannot earn salvation or achieve true spiritual vitality through our own efforts, no matter how strong or weak our "branch or rush" may be. However, in Christ, this paralysis is overcome. He is the one who enables us to "do" what we could not. Through His atoning sacrifice and the power of His resurrection, He makes us alive ([Ephesians 2:4-5](/ephesians/2-4 "Ephesians 2:4-5 - Made Alive with Christ")), empowering us to bear fruit ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in Christ")) and to do all things through Him who strengthens us ([Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - All Things Through Christ")). The "new creation" in Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")) is no longer paralyzed by sin but is enabled by the Spirit to walk in good works, which God prepared beforehand ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")). Thus, the judgment on Egypt serves as a vivid illustration of the spiritual helplessness from which only Christ can deliver us, transforming our inability into divine capability.

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 9:14

Therefore the LORD will cut off from Israel head and tail, branch and rush, in one day.

Isaiah 9:15

The ancient and honourable, he [is] the head; and the prophet that teacheth lies, he [is] the tail.

Habakkuk 3:17

Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither [shall] fruit [be] in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and [there shall be] no herd in the stalls:

Psalms 128:2

For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy [shalt] thou [be], and [it shall be] well with thee.

Proverbs 14:23

¶ In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips [tendeth] only to penury.

Haggai 1:11

And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon [that] which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labour of the hands.

1 Thessalonians 4:11

And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;