Isaiah 19:2

KJV

And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, [and] kingdom against kingdom.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will set {H5526} the Egyptians {H4714} against the Egyptians {H4714}: and they shall fight {H3898} every one {H376} against his brother {H251}, and every one {H376} against his neighbour {H7453}; city {H5892} against city {H5892}, and kingdom {H4467} against kingdom {H4467}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I will incite Egypt against Egypt, brother will fight against brother, friend against friend, city against city, kingdom against kingdom.

Berean Standard Bible

“So I will incite Egyptian against Egyptian; brother will fight against brother, neighbor against neighbor, city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.

American Standard Version

And I will stir up the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbor; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:2 delivers a profound prophetic declaration of divine judgment upon ancient Egypt, foretelling a period of intense internal conflict and societal fragmentation. This verse vividly portrays a nation consumed by self-destructive civil strife, where divisions permeate every level of society, from individual relationships to major political entities, all orchestrated or permitted by God's sovereign hand to bring about His purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19 is part of a larger collection of "oracles against the nations" (chapters 13-23), where the prophet Isaiah pronounces God's judgment upon various foreign powers that interacted with Judah. Specifically, chapter 19 focuses entirely on Egypt, a nation that frequently tempted Judah to rely on its military might rather than trusting in the Lord. The preceding verse, [Isaiah 19:1](/isaiah/19-1 "Isaiah 19:1 - Oracle Concerning Egypt"), sets the stage by depicting the Lord riding on a swift cloud, coming to Egypt, causing its idols to tremble and its heart to melt. This immediate context establishes the divine initiative behind the impending chaos described in [Isaiah 19:2](/isaiah/19-2 "Isaiah 19:2 - Internal Strife in Egypt"), clarifying that the internal strife is not merely a political accident but a direct act of God's judgment. The chapter progresses to describe the drying up of the Nile, the failure of its industries, and the confusion of its wise men, all leading to a state of utter helplessness before God's judgment, culminating in a surprising future blessing for Egypt in [Isaiah 19:25](/isaiah/19-25 "Isaiah 19:25 - God's Blessing on Egypt, Assyria, and Israel").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Isaiah's ministry (8th century BCE), Egypt was a dominant regional power, though its influence was waning in the face of the rising Assyrian Empire. Judah often found itself caught between these two giants, frequently seeking alliances with Egypt for protection against Assyria, a practice condemned by Isaiah as a lack of faith in Yahweh (e.g., [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Those Who Go Down to Egypt for Help")). Ancient Egypt, while seemingly stable, experienced periods of internal fragmentation, particularly the "Third Intermediate Period" (c. 1070-664 BCE), which saw multiple competing dynasties and local rulers. The prophecy in [Isaiah 19:2](/isaiah/19-2 "Isaiah 19:2 - Internal Strife in Egypt") likely refers to such historical or impending periods of civil war and disunity, where different regions or factions within Egypt fought for control, leading to widespread chaos and weakening the nation from within. The Nile River was the lifeblood of Egypt, and its stability was paramount; any disruption, whether internal or external, would have profound consequences on its highly centralized society.
* **Key Themes:** [Isaiah 19:2](/isaiah/19-2 "Isaiah 19:2 - Internal Strife in Egypt") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, demonstrating that God's authority extends not only over His covenant people, Israel, but over all nations, even mighty empires like Egypt. He is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, orchestrating or permitting events to fulfill His purposes. Secondly, the verse highlights **Divine Judgment**, portraying internal strife as a specific form of God's punitive action against a nation. This judgment is often a consequence of national pride, idolatry, or opposition to God's will, though not explicitly stated in this verse, it is a common thread in Isaiah's oracles against the nations. Thirdly, it vividly illustrates the destructive nature of **Disunity and Internal Strife**. The breakdown of societal cohesion, from individual relationships to political structures ("city against city, and kingdom against kingdom"), is presented as a devastating outcome, echoing the principle that a house divided against itself cannot stand, as later articulated by Jesus in [Mark 3:25](/mark/3-25 "Mark 3:25 - A House Divided"). Finally, this prophecy, when read in the broader context of [Isaiah 19](/isaiah/19 "Isaiah 19 - Oracle Concerning Egypt"), subtly introduces the theme of **Redemptive Purpose in Judgment**, as the chapter concludes with a surprising vision of Egypt eventually turning to the Lord and being blessed alongside Israel and Assyria.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Set (Hebrew, _çâkak'_):** From H5526, a primitive root meaning "to entwine as a screen," "to fence in," "cover over," or figuratively, "to protect." In the Hiphil stem, as used here (וְסִכְסַכְתִּי, _wə·siḵ·saḵ·tî_), it carries the causative sense of "to instigate," "to incite," or "to stir up." Thus, "I will set" implies God's direct, active, and intentional role in causing or allowing this internal conflict to erupt, not merely observing it. It's an act of divine orchestration, like weaving a destructive pattern.
* **Fight (Hebrew, _lâcham'_):** From H3898, a primitive root meaning "to feed on," "to consume," and by implication, "to battle" (as destruction). This word conveys the destructive nature of the conflict. The use of "fight" here emphasizes the violent, consuming nature of the internal struggle, where the Egyptians literally "devour" or "consume" each other through warfare, leading to societal breakdown.
* **Brother (Hebrew, _ʼâch'_):** From H251, a primitive word referring to a "brother" in the widest sense, encompassing literal relationship, metaphorical affinity, or resemblance. It can also mean "another" or "kindred." The phrase "every one against his brother" signifies the breakdown of the most fundamental social bonds, extending beyond literal siblings to include fellow countrymen, neighbors, and those who should be united by shared identity or community. This emphasizes the deep, pervasive, and unnatural nature of the conflict.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians:"** This opening clause immediately establishes the divine agency behind the impending chaos. The Lord Himself declares His intention to instigate or permit a profound internal division within Egypt. This is not a natural political development but a direct act of God's judgment, causing the nation to turn upon itself.
* **"and they shall fight every one against his brother,"** This specifies the nature of the conflict: widespread, personal, and deeply destructive. The term "brother" extends beyond literal siblings to encompass fellow citizens, highlighting the breakdown of familial and communal bonds, where those who should be united are instead engaged in violent opposition.
* **"and every one against his neighbour;"** This clause further broadens the scope of the internal strife, indicating that the conflict will permeate all levels of society, affecting even those in close proximity and daily interaction. It underscores the pervasive nature of the disunity, leaving no one untouched by the pervasive hostility.
* **"city against city,"** The conflict escalates from individual and relational levels to urban centers. This signifies civil war, where different cities or regions within Egypt will engage in armed conflict, leading to widespread destruction of infrastructure and population centers.
* **"and kingdom against kingdom."** This final phrase describes the ultimate fragmentation of the nation into competing political entities. It implies a complete breakdown of central authority, with various factions or regional powers vying for control, leading to a state of anarchy and multiple "kingdoms" within what was once a unified nation.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:2 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message of divine judgment and internal strife. **Repetition** is prominent, with phrases like "Egyptians against Egyptians," "every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour," and "city against city, and kingdom against kingdom." This repetition serves to emphasize the pervasive, all-encompassing nature of the division, highlighting that no level of society will be untouched by the conflict. The structure also exhibits a form of **Climactic Parallelism**, moving from individual conflict ("brother," "neighbour") to broader societal and political divisions ("city," "kingdom"). This progression intensifies the sense of escalating chaos and total breakdown. Furthermore, the phrase "I will set" functions as a powerful **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like action (instigation) to God, underscoring His direct and active role in orchestrating this judgment. The vivid imagery of a nation tearing itself apart also borders on **Hyperbole**, painting an extreme picture of societal collapse to convey the severity of God's judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 19:2 profoundly illustrates God's absolute sovereignty over all nations, demonstrating that even the most powerful empires are subject to His will and judgment. The internal strife described is not merely a political accident but a divinely orchestrated consequence, revealing God's justice in allowing nations to experience the devastating effects of disunity and pride. This passage serves as a stark reminder that true stability and peace are ultimately dependent on divine favor, and that internal moral and spiritual decay can lead to self-destruction, even without external enemies. It underscores a timeless biblical principle: a house divided against itself cannot stand, a truth that applies to nations, communities, and individuals alike.

* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10 "The Lord Frustrates the Plans of Nations")
* [Matthew 12:25](/matthew/12-25 "A Kingdom Divided Cannot Stand")
* [Galatians 5:15](/galatians/5-15 "Biting and Devouring One Another")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 19:2 serves as a timeless warning about the destructive power of internal division and the consequences of a society turning upon itself. While the immediate context is a prophetic judgment on ancient Egypt, its principles resonate deeply today. For individuals, it calls for introspection regarding personal relationships and the importance of reconciliation and unity, rather than fostering bitterness or strife. For communities and churches, it underscores the vital necessity of peace, mutual respect, and working together for common goals, recognizing that disunity weakens witness and hinders progress. On a national level, it highlights the fragility of social cohesion and the dangers of extreme polarization, reminding us that true strength comes not from external might alone, but from internal harmony and justice. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to seek God's wisdom in resolving conflicts, to pursue peace, and to recognize that societal breakdown can be a sign of deeper spiritual issues, prompting a call to repentance and reliance on God's unifying grace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might internal division manifest in my own life, family, or community today?**
* **How does this prophecy challenge my understanding of God's sovereignty over global events and national affairs?**
* **What practical steps can I take to promote unity and reconciliation in my spheres of influence, rather than contributing to division?**
* **How does the idea of "city against city, and kingdom against kingdom" relate to contemporary societal or political fragmentation?**

### FAQ
**Did this prophecy against Egypt literally come true?**

Answer: Yes, historical records indicate that Egypt experienced numerous periods of significant internal strife, civil wars, and fragmentation, particularly during the Third Intermediate Period (c. 1070-664 BCE) and later periods. For example, the Dodecarchy (rule of twelve kings) mentioned by Herodotus in the 7th century BCE, where various regional rulers vied for control, aligns remarkably well with the prophecy of "city against city, and kingdom against kingdom." These periods of internal conflict significantly weakened Egypt, making it vulnerable to foreign powers like Assyria and Persia, fulfilling the broader context of God's judgment and control over the nation's destiny as described throughout [Isaiah 19](/isaiah/19 "Isaiah 19 - Oracle Concerning Egypt").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Isaiah 19:2 directly prophesies judgment upon ancient Egypt, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment and theological resonance. The verse speaks of a nation divided against itself, a state of chaos and self-destruction that is ultimately a consequence of humanity's fallen nature and rebellion against God. In Christ, we see the ultimate answer to this pervasive disunity. Jesus came to reconcile not only humanity to God but also humanity to itself, breaking down the "dividing wall of hostility" (as described in [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")) between Jew and Gentile, and by extension, between all peoples. His death on the cross was the ultimate act of peace-making, bringing together those who were formerly alienated. Furthermore, Jesus Himself warned that "every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand" ([Matthew 12:25](/matthew/12-25 "Matthew 12:25 - A Kingdom Divided Cannot Stand")), echoing Isaiah's prophecy and applying it universally. The ultimate fulfillment of peace and unity, where nations no longer lift up sword against nation, is found in the eschatological reign of Christ, when He will establish His kingdom of righteousness and peace, drawing all peoples to Himself, including even the Egyptians, as envisioned later in [Isaiah 19:25](/isaiah/19-25 "Isaiah 19:25 - God's Blessing on Egypt, Assyria, and Israel"), where Egypt is blessed alongside Israel and Assyria. Thus, the chaos of Isaiah 19:2 points forward to the desperate need for the Prince of Peace ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace")), who alone can bring true and lasting unity to a fragmented world.

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

Judges 7:22

And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the LORD set every man's sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host: and the host fled to Bethshittah in Zererath, [and] to the border of Abelmeholah, unto Tabbath.

1 Samuel 14:20

And Saul and all the people that [were] with him assembled themselves, and they came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword was against his fellow, [and there was] a very great discomfiture.

Matthew 10:36

And a man's foes [shall be] they of his own household.

Matthew 10:21

And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against [their] parents, and cause them to be put to death.

Ezekiel 38:21

And I will call for a sword against him throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord GOD: every man's sword shall be against his brother.

Revelation 17:12

And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast.

Revelation 17:17

For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.