Isaiah 22:15

KJV

¶ Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, Go, get thee unto this treasurer, [even] unto Shebna, which [is] over the house, [and say],

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} of hosts {H6635}, Go {H3212}, get {H935} thee unto this treasurer {H5532}, even unto Shebna {H7644}, which is over the house {H1004}, and say,

Complete Jewish Bible

Thus says Adonai ELOHIM-Tzva'ot: "Go and find that steward, Shevna, administrator of the palace, and ask him:

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the Lord GOD of Hosts says: “Go, say to Shebna, the steward in charge of the palace:

American Standard Version

Thus saith the Lord, Jehovah of hosts, Go, get thee unto this treasurer, even unto Shebna, who is over the house, and say,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 22:15 initiates a direct prophetic oracle from the Lord GOD of hosts to the prophet Isaiah, commanding him to confront Shebna, a powerful and influential official in the royal court of Judah. This verse serves as the divine introduction to a pronouncement of judgment against Shebna, who held the significant positions of "treasurer" and "over the house," indicating his role as chief steward or prime minister. It sets the stage for a dramatic divine intervention into the political and spiritual landscape of Jerusalem, highlighting God's sovereign oversight of human leadership and His impending action against pride and misplaced trust.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 22:15 marks a significant shift within the broader "oracle concerning the Valley of Vision" (Isaiah 22:1-14). While the preceding verses lament Jerusalem's spiritual complacency, its reliance on human defenses, and its failure to turn to God in a time of crisis, verse 15 pivots from a general indictment of the city to a specific, personal condemnation of Shebna. This transition underscores that divine judgment is not merely abstract but often targets specific individuals who embody the societal failures. The verses immediately following (Isaiah 22:16-19) detail the specific charges against Shebna—his self-aggrandizement and abuse of power—and pronounce his removal, setting up the subsequent appointment of Eliakim as his replacement (Isaiah 22:20-25). This narrative arc within [Isaiah 22](/isaiah/22 "Isaiah 22 - The Oracle Concerning the Valley of Vision") vividly illustrates God's active involvement in the affairs of His people and their leaders.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This prophecy is generally situated during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah (circa 715-686 BC), a period marked by significant political turmoil due to the rising power of the Assyrian Empire. Jerusalem faced the constant threat of invasion, most notably by Sennacherib in 701 BC. In this precarious environment, officials like Shebna, holding the title "over the house" (`'al habbayit`), wielded immense authority, functioning effectively as a prime minister or chief steward, managing the king's household, treasury, and administrative affairs. This position was second only to the king himself, often involving control over access to the king and significant influence over state policy. The cultural context reveals a society where positions of power were often accompanied by great responsibility, but also temptation for personal gain and pride, as evidenced by Shebna's actions described in [Isaiah 22:16](/isaiah/22-16 "Isaiah 22:16 - Shebna's Self-Aggrandizement").
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes introduced or reinforced by [Isaiah 22:15](/isaiah/22-15 "Isaiah 22:15 - The Prophecy Against Shebna") include **Divine Sovereignty and Authority**, emphasized by the opening declaration "Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts," which asserts God's ultimate control over human leaders and nations. Another crucial theme is **Stewardship and Accountability**, highlighting that positions of power are a trust from God, and those who hold them are held to account for their actions. Shebna's abuse of his high office for personal ambition, rather than for the welfare of the kingdom or the glory of God, becomes a central point of divine judgment. This also introduces the theme of **Pride Leading to Humiliation**, a recurring motif in biblical wisdom literature, as seen in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before a Fall"), where human arrogance inevitably precedes a fall orchestrated by God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **saith (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** This primitive root verb signifies "to say" or "to speak," but with a broad range of applications including to declare, command, appoint, or utter. In the context of "Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts," it powerfully conveys the divine origin and authoritative nature of the message. It is not merely a suggestion or a human observation, but a direct, unchallengeable pronouncement from God Himself, indicating that the following words carry the full weight of divine decree and will certainly come to pass.
* **Lord (Hebrew, _ʼĂdônây'_):** An emphatic form of "Adon," meaning "lord" or "master." When used as a proper name of God, as it is here in conjunction with "GOD (YHWH) of hosts," it emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty, mastership, and ownership over all creation and all people. It highlights His supreme authority over human rulers and affairs, underscoring that even the most powerful human official, like Shebna, is ultimately subject to the divine will.
* **house (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** While literally meaning a physical dwelling, "bayith" in this context refers to the royal household or palace, and by extension, the entire administration and affairs of the king. Shebna's title "over the house" (`'al habbayit`) indicates his position as the chief administrator or prime minister, holding the highest authority within the king's domestic and governmental affairs, second only to the king. This word, therefore, encapsulates the immense power, responsibility, and trust that had been placed in Shebna's hands.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts,"**: This opening phrase is a classic prophetic formula, immediately establishing the divine origin and absolute authority of the message. It signifies that the words are not Isaiah's own but a direct revelation from YHWH, the sovereign ruler of all heavenly and earthly armies. This declaration imbues the subsequent command with unchallengeable power and certainty.
* **"Go, get thee unto this treasurer,"**: The prophet Isaiah receives a direct, urgent command to physically go and confront a specific individual. The term "treasurer" (Hebrew: `çâkan`) identifies Shebna's role as an overseer of financial assets, indicating his significant administrative and economic power within the kingdom.
* **"even unto Shebna, which is over the house,"**: This clause specifically names the target of the prophecy, Shebna, and further identifies his primary and most powerful position: "over the house" (`'al habbayit`). This title denotes the chief steward or prime minister, the highest administrative official in the royal court, responsible for the king's household and affairs. This highlights the immense influence and responsibility Shebna held, making his impending judgment all the more significant.
* **"and say,"**: This final imperative instructs Isaiah to deliver the divine message directly to Shebna. It emphasizes the directness and personal nature of the confrontation, setting the stage for the specific charges and pronouncements of judgment that follow in the subsequent verses of [Isaiah 22](/isaiah/22 "Isaiah 22 - The Oracle Concerning the Valley of Vision").

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 22:15 employs several potent literary devices. The most prominent is **Divine Oracle**, immediately signaled by the formulaic "Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts," which asserts the message's supernatural origin and unassailable authority. This phrase creates a sense of solemnity and inevitability around the pronouncement. The direct command, "Go, get thee unto this treasurer, even unto Shebna," is an example of **Apostrophe**, as the prophet Isaiah is directly addressed and given a specific mission. There is also an element of **Foreshadowing** in this introductory verse; while the specific charges and judgment against Shebna are not yet revealed, the very act of a divine, authoritative pronouncement against a powerful official strongly hints at impending rebuke and downfall. The specificity of naming Shebna and his high offices also uses **Specificity** to draw the reader's attention to a particular individual and his significant role in the unfolding divine drama.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 22:15 serves as a profound theological statement on God's active involvement in human governance and His sovereign authority over all leaders, regardless of their earthly power. It underscores the principle that all positions of influence are ultimately a stewardship from God, and those entrusted with such roles are held accountable for their integrity, humility, and faithfulness. Shebna's impending judgment, introduced here, illustrates that God opposes pride and self-serving ambition, particularly when it occurs in positions of sacred trust. This passage reminds us that true authority emanates from God, and He has the power to raise up and cast down leaders according to His righteous purposes.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction")
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")
* [Luke 12:48](/luke/12-48 "Luke 12:48 - To Whom Much Is Given")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 22:15 challenges us to critically examine our own attitudes towards authority, responsibility, and stewardship. Whether in our families, workplaces, communities, or churches, we are all entrusted with some measure of influence, resources, or leadership. This verse calls us to consider if we are exercising our responsibilities with humility and a focus on God's purposes, or if we are subtly (or overtly) using our positions for personal gain, recognition, or comfort, much like Shebna. It reminds us that true leadership, from a biblical perspective, is servant leadership, prioritizing the welfare of others and the glory of God above personal ambition. God's scrutiny of Shebna highlights that He sees not just our actions, but the motives of our hearts. Therefore, we are encouraged to cultivate a heart of humility, integrity, and faithful stewardship in all areas of our lives, recognizing that ultimately, we are accountable to the Lord GOD of hosts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I exercise influence or leadership, and how am I stewarding those responsibilities?**
* **Am I prone to using my position or resources for personal gain, or am I genuinely seeking to serve God and others?**
* **What does it mean for me to live as if "the Lord GOD of hosts" is truly sovereign over all my endeavors and decisions?**

### FAQ
**Who was Shebna, and why was he significant?**

Answer: Shebna was a high-ranking official in the kingdom of Judah, likely during the reign of King Hezekiah. He held the titles of "treasurer" and, more significantly, "over the house" (`'al habbayit`). The latter title designated him as the chief steward or prime minister, a position of immense power and authority, second only to the king. He managed the royal household, its finances, and was deeply involved in state affairs. His significance lies in his powerful position and the fact that God specifically targeted him for judgment due to his pride, self-aggrandizement (as seen in [Isaiah 22:16-19](/isaiah/22-16 "Isaiah 22:16-19 - Shebna's Arrogance and Downfall")), and likely his misplaced trust in human alliances rather than God during a time of national crisis.

**What does the title "Lord GOD of hosts" signify?**

Answer: "Lord GOD of hosts" (Hebrew: `ʼĂdônây Yᵉhôvih tsâbâʼ`) is a powerful and frequently used divine title in the Old Testament. "Adonai" signifies mastership and sovereignty, while "YHWH" (often rendered "GOD" or "LORD" in English translations) is God's covenant name, emphasizing His self-existence and faithfulness. "Hosts" (`tsâbâʼ`) refers to armies, whether heavenly (angels) or earthly (people). Combined, the title "Lord GOD of hosts" portrays God as the supreme commander of all celestial and terrestrial armies, the sovereign ruler of the universe, and the one who has absolute power and authority over all creation, including nations and their leaders. It underscores His omnipotence and His ability to execute His will without hindrance, as demonstrated by His judgment against Shebna in [Isaiah 22](/isaiah/22 "Isaiah 22 - The Oracle Concerning the Valley of Vision").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 22:15, with its divine pronouncement against the unfaithful steward Shebna, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Shebna, as the one "over the house," was entrusted with immense authority and the "keys" to the king's affairs, yet he abused his position for personal glory, leading to his downfall. In stark contrast, Jesus is the perfectly faithful steward, the true and ultimate "one over the house." He is the Son who is "faithful over God's house" (as described in [Hebrews 3:6](/hebrews/3-6 "Hebrews 3:6 - Christ, Faithful Over God's House")), unlike any human steward. He did not seek His own glory but perfectly fulfilled the will of His Father ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). The "keys" of authority that Shebna misused are perfectly held by Christ, who declares in [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Christ Holds the Key of David") that He holds "the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens." Furthermore, Jesus, the humble servant-king, embodies the antithesis of Shebna's pride, willingly laying down His life as the ultimate act of stewardship and love ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). He is the one who perfectly administers God's kingdom, not for personal gain, but for the redemption of humanity and the glory of God the Father, establishing an everlasting reign where justice and righteousness prevail ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Everlasting Kingdom of Christ")).

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 36:3

Then came forth unto him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, which was over the house, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder.

2 Kings 18:18

And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder.

2 Kings 18:37

Then came Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder, to Hezekiah with [their] clothes rent, and told him the words of Rabshakeh.

2 Kings 19:2

And he sent Eliakim, which [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the priests, covered with sackcloth, to Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz.

Isaiah 37:2

And he sent Eliakim, who [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the priests covered with sackcloth, unto Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz.

1 Kings 4:6

And Ahishar [was] over the household: and Adoniram the son of Abda [was] over the tribute.

Isaiah 36:11

¶ Then said Eliakim and Shebna and Joah unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, unto thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand [it]: and speak not to us in the Jews' language, in the ears of the people that [are] on the wall.