Isaiah 21:17

KJV

And the residue of the number of archers, the mighty men of the children of Kedar, shall be diminished: for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

And the residue {H7605} of the number {H4557} of archers {H7198}, the mighty men {H1368} of the children {H1121} of Kedar {H6938}, shall be diminished {H4591}: for the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478} hath spoken {H1696} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Few of Kedar's valiant archers will be left. " ADONAI the God of Isra'el has spoken.

Berean Standard Bible

The remaining archers, the warriors of Kedar, will be few.” For the LORD, the God of Israel, has spoken.

American Standard Version

and the residue of the number of the archers, the mighty men of the children of Kedar, shall be few; for Jehovah, the God of Israel, hath spoken it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 21:17 delivers a stark and certain prophecy concerning the imminent downfall of Kedar, a formidable Arabian tribe renowned for its military prowess. This verse, part of a broader oracle against various nations, declares that the number of Kedar's skilled archers and mighty warriors will be drastically reduced, explicitly stating that this judgment is a direct decree from the LORD God of Israel, underscoring His absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and the unfailing certainty of His prophetic word.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 21:17 concludes the "burden of Arabia" (Isaiah 21:13-17), which is itself part of a larger collection of "burdens" or oracles against foreign nations found in [Isaiah chapters 13-23](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13-23 - Oracles Against Nations"). Specifically, verses 13-15 describe the flight of Dedanite caravans seeking refuge from an impending threat, highlighting the disruption and fear in the region. Verse 16 then sets a precise timeframe for Kedar's demise, stating, "For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Within a year, according to the years of an hireling, and all the glory of Kedar shall fail." Verse 17 serves as the grim fulfillment of this prediction, detailing the specific nature of Kedar's diminished "glory" – their military strength. This immediate context emphasizes the swiftness and certainty of divine judgment, building from a general warning to a specific, devastating outcome for a proud people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Kedar (Hebrew: _Qedar_) was a prominent nomadic Arab tribe, descendants of [Ishmael through his second son](/genesis/25-13 "Genesis 25:13 - Ishmael's Descendants"). They were known for their vast flocks, wealth, and particularly their skill as archers and warriors, controlling significant trade routes in the Arabian desert. Their black tents were a distinctive feature, giving rise to the poetic imagery in [Song of Solomon 1:5](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - Dark but Lovely"). At the time of Isaiah's prophecy, Kedar likely represented a formidable, independent power in the region, often interacting (sometimes hostilely) with Assyria, Babylon, and Judah. The "diminishment" prophesied here would have been a significant blow to their prestige and influence, likely occurring through military campaigns by dominant empires like the Assyrians or later the Babylonians, who sought to control the lucrative trade routes that passed through Kedarite territory. The prophecy thus speaks to a real-world geopolitical struggle, but framed within God's overarching plan.
* **Key Themes:** The prophecy in [Isaiah 21:17](/isaiah/21-17 "Isaiah 21:17 - The Diminishment of Kedar") powerfully articulates several core theological themes. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, demonstrating that the LORD God of Israel is not confined to His covenant people but exercises ultimate authority over all nations and their destinies, even those who do not acknowledge Him. He orchestrates the rise and fall of empires according to His will. Secondly, the phrase "for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it]" highlights the **Certainty of Prophetic Fulfillment**. God's word is inherently efficacious; what He declares will undoubtedly come to pass, regardless of human strength or resistance. This resonates with the broader biblical principle that [God's word will not return void](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose"). Thirdly, the prophecy illustrates the **Humiliation of Human Pride**. Kedar, a renowned and self-reliant warrior tribe, is promised a severe reduction in power and prestige, serving as a potent reminder that human strength, military might, or national glory are ultimately fleeting and subject to the sovereign will of God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **diminished (Hebrew, _mâʻaṭ'_):** From H4591, a primitive root meaning "to pare off, i.e. lessen." Intransitively, it means to "be (or causatively, to make) small or few (or figuratively, ineffective)." This word conveys a sense of reduction, scarcity, or being brought to nothing. It suggests that Kedar's numbers, particularly their fighting force, would not be completely annihilated but would be significantly reduced to a state of weakness and ineffectiveness, losing their former prominence and strength.
* **mighty men (Hebrew, _gibbôwr'_):** From H1368, an intensive form meaning "powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant." This term refers to champions, chief warriors, or valiant men. In the context of Kedar, it emphasizes their elite fighting force, the very core of their military strength and reputation. The diminishing of these "mighty men" signifies a direct attack on the source of their power and pride.
* **spoken (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** From H1696, a primitive root meaning "to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak." It can also mean to command, declare, or pronounce. The use of this word in the perfect tense ("hath spoken") emphasizes the completed and unchangeable nature of God's decree. It is not merely a prediction but a divine pronouncement that carries with it the absolute certainty of its fulfillment, highlighting God's authority and the reliability of His word.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the residue of the number of archers, the mighty men of the children of Kedar, shall be diminished:"** This clause specifies the target and the nature of the judgment. The "children of Kedar" identifies the tribe. Their "archers" and "mighty men" represent their military elite and the source of their formidable reputation. The "residue of the number" implies that only a small portion of their once-great fighting force will remain, indicating a severe and devastating defeat. The verb "shall be diminished" underscores the reduction in their quantity and quality, signifying a loss of power and prestige.
* **"for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it]."** This concluding phrase provides the ultimate reason and guarantee for the prophecy's fulfillment. It attributes the impending judgment directly to the sovereign will and authoritative word of "the LORD God of Israel." This declaration transforms the prediction into a divine decree, emphasizing that the outcome is not a matter of chance or human agency alone, but the certain outworking of God's unchallengeable purpose. It highlights God's absolute control over the destinies of nations.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 21:17 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Symbolism** is evident in the "archers" and "mighty men" of Kedar, which stand for the tribe's military strength, prowess, and the very foundation of their national pride and security. Their diminishment thus symbolizes the complete collapse of their self-reliant power. The entire prophecy against Kedar serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, predicting a future event that will bring about their humiliation. Most significantly, the concluding phrase, "for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it]," functions as a **Divine Decree** or **Proclamation**. This direct statement of divine authorship and authority removes any doubt about the certainty of the prophecy's fulfillment, transforming it from a mere prediction into an unalterable, divinely ordained reality. It emphasizes the power of God's word to bring about what it declares.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 21:17 profoundly illustrates God's universal sovereignty, demonstrating that His dominion extends far beyond Israel to encompass all nations and peoples. The judgment against Kedar, a powerful and independent tribe, serves as a clear testament to the fact that no human power, military might, or national pride can ultimately stand against the divine will. This prophecy reinforces the biblical truth that God is the ultimate orchestrator of history, raising up and bringing down kingdoms according to His sovereign plan. It also powerfully affirms the absolute reliability and efficacy of God's prophetic word; what He declares, He will certainly bring to pass, regardless of the apparent strength or influence of those targeted. This certainty provides a bedrock of trust for believers, knowing that God's promises and warnings are equally sure.

* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God Rules in the Kingdom of Men")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10-11 - The Lord's Counsel Stands Forever")
* [Lamentations 2:17](/lamentations/2-17 "Lamentations 2:17 - The Lord Has Done What He Purposed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 21:17 offers timeless lessons for believers navigating a world often dominated by human power and ambition. Firstly, it calls us to place our ultimate trust not in the strength of nations, economic stability, or military might, but in the unfailing word and sovereign hand of God. Just as Kedar's strength was diminished because the LORD had spoken it, so too are all earthly powers subject to His decree. This should cultivate a deep sense of humility, reminding us that any strength, wisdom, or success we possess is ultimately a gift from Him and transient apart from His grace. Secondly, this prophecy provides immense comfort and assurance. In a world filled with uncertainty and shifting geopolitical landscapes, we can rest in the knowledge that God is actively involved in the affairs of all nations, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes. His word is reliable, His plans are unthwartable, and His ultimate victory is assured. This truth empowers us to live with courage, to pray for our leaders and nations, and to faithfully pursue His kingdom, knowing that He is in control.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or in the world around me do I tend to place my trust in human strength or systems, rather than solely in God's sovereign word?**
* **How does the certainty of God's prophetic word, as demonstrated in this verse, impact my confidence in His promises for my own life and for the future of His kingdom?**
* **What specific actions can I take to cultivate greater humility and acknowledge God's ultimate authority over all circumstances, both personal and global?**

### FAQ
**Who were the children of Kedar, and why were they significant?**

Answer: The children of Kedar were a prominent nomadic Arab tribe, descendants of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar, specifically through Ishmael's second son, Kedar (as mentioned in [Genesis 25:13](/genesis/25-13 "Genesis 25:13 - Ishmael's Descendants")). They were culturally and economically significant due to their control over vital trade routes in the Arabian desert, their vast flocks of sheep and camels, and their renowned skill as archers and warriors. Their black tents were so distinctive that they became a poetic symbol (e.g., [Song of Solomon 1:5](/song_of_solomon/1-5 "Song of Solomon 1:5 - Dark but Lovely")). Their military prowess and strategic location made them a formidable power in the ancient Near East, often interacting with the major empires of the day.

**What does "shall be diminished" imply about Kedar's fate?**

Answer: The phrase "shall be diminished" (Hebrew: _mâʻaṭ_) implies a significant reduction in Kedar's numbers, particularly their fighting force, and consequently, their power and influence. It does not necessarily mean complete annihilation but rather a severe weakening and loss of their former glory and strength. This reduction would have rendered them ineffective as a military or political force, stripping them of their pride and dominance. The prophecy suggests a decisive defeat that would cripple their ability to maintain their reputation as "mighty men" and "archers," leading to a state of insignificance compared to their previous stature.

**Why did God pronounce judgment on Kedar, and what is the broader theological message?**

Answer: While the specific reasons for God's judgment on Kedar are not explicitly detailed in [Isaiah 21:17](/isaiah/21-17 "Isaiah 21:17 - The Diminishment of Kedar"), the broader context of Isaiah's oracles against nations suggests that such judgments often stemmed from their pride, idolatry, oppression, or their opposition to God's people or His purposes. The theological message is profoundly clear: God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. He orchestrates the rise and fall of empires and peoples, demonstrating His absolute authority over human history. The concluding phrase, "for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it]," emphasizes the certainty and divine origin of this judgment, serving as a powerful reminder that God's word is infallible and will always be fulfilled, regardless of the apparent strength or autonomy of any earthly power.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 21:17, with its declaration of divine judgment against a powerful earthly kingdom and the absolute certainty of God's spoken word, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The "diminishment" of Kedar's earthly power foreshadows the humbling of all human pride and the ultimate subjection of every earthly authority to the reign of God, a process supremely inaugurated and perfectly realized in Christ. While Kedar's fall was a specific historical event, it points to the broader truth that all human kingdoms, military might, and self-reliant strength are fleeting and will ultimately bow before the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"). Jesus, through His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, has been given [all authority in heaven and on earth](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus"), demonstrating that true power resides not in worldly might but in divine humility and sacrificial love. He is the one through whom [God's word finds its "Yes" and "Amen"](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ"), meaning all of God's promises and decrees, including those of judgment and sovereignty, are perfectly fulfilled in Him. The judgment on Kedar serves as a microcosm of the final judgment where every knee will eventually [bow before Christ](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow"), acknowledging His supreme and eternal reign, and finding true security not in worldly strength, but in His everlasting kingdom.

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

Numbers 23:19

God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Zechariah 1:6

But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers? and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.

Isaiah 1:20

But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].

Isaiah 10:18

And shall consume the glory of his forest, and of his fruitful field, both soul and body: and they shall be as when a standardbearer fainteth.

Isaiah 10:19

And the rest of the trees of his forest shall be few, that a child may write them.

Psalms 107:39

Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.

Isaiah 17:4

And in that day it shall come to pass, [that] the glory of Jacob shall be made thin, and the fatness of his flesh shall wax lean.