22:18 22:18

Isaiah 22:19

22:20 22:20

Bible Versions

And I will drive thee from thy station, and from thy state shall he pull thee down.
And I will drive {H1920} thee from thy station {H4673}, and from thy state {H4612} shall he pull thee down {H2040}.
"I will remove you from your office, I will snatch you from your post.
I will remove you from office, and you will be ousted from your position.
And I will thrust thee from thine office; and from thy station shalt thou be pulled down.

Isaiah 22:19 delivers a powerful divine pronouncement of judgment against Shebna, a prominent official in Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. This verse, spoken directly by God through the prophet Isaiah, declares a decisive end to Shebna's elevated position and authority.

Context

To understand Isaiah 22:19, it's crucial to look at the preceding verses (Isaiah 22:15-18). Shebna held a high office, likely that of "steward" or "over the house" (a chief administrator or treasurer), a position of significant power and influence in the kingdom of Judah. However, instead of faithfully serving the nation during a time of crisis (likely referring to the Assyrian threat), Shebna was characterized by pride, self-aggrandizement, and a focus on his own legacy. He was building an elaborate tomb for himself while the people faced imminent danger. God's judgment here is a direct response to his misuse of power, arrogance, and lack of true devotion to his responsibilities and to God.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment and Accountability: The verse vividly illustrates God's active involvement in human affairs, particularly in holding leaders accountable for their stewardship. Shebna's downfall serves as a stark reminder that positions of authority are ultimately granted by God and come with immense responsibility.
  • Consequences of Pride and Self-Interest: Shebna's focus on personal glory and security, rather than the welfare of his people or trust in God, directly leads to his removal. This highlights a timeless biblical principle that pride often precedes a fall.
  • God's Sovereignty Over Positions: The phrases "I will drive thee" and "shall he pull thee down" emphasize that it is God Himself who orchestrates Shebna's removal. This demonstrates God's ultimate authority to bring low and lift up, removing those who are unfaithful and replacing them with those He chooses (as seen with Eliakim in Isaiah 22:20).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses "thy station" and "thy state." The Hebrew word for "station" is makom (מָקוֹם), which literally means "place" but in this context refers to his specific position or office. "State" comes from ma'amad (מַעֲמָד), denoting his standing, status, or position of authority. The repetition of these concepts emphasizes the completeness and certainty of his demotion and removal from public life.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless lessons for all, especially those in positions of leadership or influence:

  1. Humility is Essential: True leadership involves humility and service, not self-aggrandizement. We are called to use our positions to benefit others and glorify God, not ourselves.
  2. Accountability to God: Every role and talent we possess is a stewardship from God. We will all be held accountable for how we manage what has been entrusted to us.
  3. Trust in God, Not Self: Shebna's reliance on his own power and plans, rather than God's provision and guidance, led to his downfall. This serves as a reminder to place our ultimate trust in the Lord.
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.

  • Ezekiel 17:24

    And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the LORD have spoken and have done [it].

  • Luke 1:52

    He hath put down the mighty from [their] seats, and exalted them of low degree.

  • Job 40:11

    Cast abroad the rage of thy wrath: and behold every one [that is] proud, and abase him.

  • Job 40:12

    Look on every one [that is] proud, [and] bring him low; and tread down the wicked in their place.

  • Psalms 75:6

    ¶ For promotion [cometh] neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south.

  • Psalms 75:7

    But God [is] the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.
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