Isaiah 19:2

Isaiah 19:2 (KJV) delivers a powerful prophetic word concerning God's judgment upon ancient Egypt, foretelling a period of intense internal conflict and social breakdown. This verse paints a vivid picture of a nation tearing itself apart from within.

Context

This verse is part of a larger oracle against Egypt found in Isaiah chapter 19. At the time of Isaiah's prophecy (8th century BC), Egypt was a formidable world power, often an ally or a threat to Judah, and frequently a source of temptation for Israel to trust in human strength rather than God's. The entire chapter details God's sovereign hand in bringing judgment upon Egypt, not just through external enemies but through internal decay and chaos. This specific prophecy highlights God's control over nations, even those considered mighty, demonstrating that their stability ultimately depends on His will. The judgments described here are intended to humble Egypt and ultimately, as the chapter concludes, lead some to acknowledge the God of Israel (see Isaiah 19:25 for the surprising conclusion).

Key Themes

• Divine Judgment: The phrase "And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians" clearly indicates God's active role in orchestrating or allowing this internal strife as a form of divine judgment. This is not merely a natural consequence but a direct action by the Almighty.
• Internal Strife and Civil War: The core message is one of profound societal breakdown. "Every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom" vividly describes widespread civil unrest, disunity, and conflict at every level of Egyptian society. This echoes the sentiment that "if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand".
• God's Sovereignty: Despite the chaos described, the verse underscores God's ultimate control over the affairs of nations. Even the most powerful empires are subject to His will and judgment.
• Consequences of Pride and Idolatry: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader context of prophecies against nations in Isaiah often links such judgments to their pride, idolatry, or reliance on human power rather than the one true God.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase "And I will set" (וְסִכְסַכְתִּי, wə·siḵ·saḵ·tî) comes from a root meaning "to instigate," "to incite," or "to mix up." It conveys a strong sense of God's direct, causative action in stirring up this internal conflict. It's not a passive observation but an active divine intervention. The repetition of "against" (בְּ, bə) emphasizes the pervasive and all-encompassing nature of the division, from family units to regional powers.

Prophetic Fulfillment and Application

Historically, Egypt experienced numerous periods of internal conflict, civil wars, and fragmentation, particularly during the later dynasties (e.g., the Dodecarchy period mentioned by Herodotus, or the struggles leading to Persian or Assyrian domination). This prophecy could refer to one or multiple such historical events, demonstrating God's foreknowledge and control over history.

For contemporary application, Isaiah 19:2 serves as a powerful reminder:

• Warning Against Disunity: It highlights the destructive power of internal division, whether in a nation, a community, a church, or even a family. Disunity weakens and ultimately destroys.
• God's Justice: It affirms God's justice in allowing nations and peoples to experience the consequences of their choices, particularly when they oppose His will or succumb to internal corruption.
• Sovereignty Over Chaos: Even in moments of profound chaos and breakdown, God remains sovereign. He can use such turmoil to humble, purify, or prepare the way for His greater purposes, as seen in the ultimate redemption promised for Egypt in the latter part of the chapter. This internal conflict also bears a resemblance to the "kingdom against kingdom" scenario described in Jesus' prophecy concerning the signs of the end times.

In summary, Isaiah 19:2 is a stark prophecy of divine judgment manifesting as self-inflicted chaos, underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and the devastating consequences of internal strife.