Isaiah 25:10

KJV

For in this mountain shall the hand of the LORD rest, and Moab shall be trodden down under him, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill.

KJV (with Strong's)

For in this mountain {H2022} shall the hand {H3027} of the LORD {H3068} rest {H5117}, and Moab {H4124} shall be trodden down {H1758} under him, even as straw {H4963} is trodden down {H1758} for the dunghill {H1119}{H4087}{H4325}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For on this mountain the hand of ADONAI will rest. But Mo'av will be trampled down where they are, like straw trampled into a pile of manure.

Berean Standard Bible

For the hand of the LORD will rest on this mountain. But Moab will be trampled in his place as straw is trodden into the dung pile.

American Standard Version

For in this mountain will the hand of Jehovah rest; and Moab shall be trodden down in his place, even as straw is trodden down in the water of the dunghill.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 25:10 offers a profound declaration of Yahweh's unwavering presence and protective power over His chosen dwelling, contrasted sharply with the utter and irreversible humiliation of His adversaries. This verse encapsulates the divine assurance of God's ultimate victory and the secure establishment of His kingdom, while simultaneously serving as a stark warning of the inevitable downfall and degradation awaiting all who oppose His sovereign will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 25:10 is situated within a magnificent prophetic song of praise and triumph (Isaiah 25:1-12), which itself forms part of a larger apocalyptic section often referred to as the "Little Apocalypse" (Isaiah 24-27). This chapter celebrates God's righteous judgment and His glorious salvation. Preceding this verse, Isaiah 25:6-8 vividly describes a magnificent feast prepared by the Lord on Mount Zion for all peoples, where death will be swallowed up and tears wiped away. Following this promise of universal blessing and comfort, verse 10 pivots to describe the fate of those who stand in opposition to God's redemptive plan, specifically highlighting Moab as a representative of all His enemies. The contrast between the secure, resting hand of the Lord on His mountain and the violent trampling of Moab underscores the two-fold outcome of God's eschatological work: salvation for His people and judgment for His foes.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** "This mountain" primarily refers to Mount Zion, the site of Jerusalem and the Temple, symbolizing God's dwelling place and the center of His covenant people. Historically, Moab was a nation east of the Dead Sea, descended from Lot (Genesis 19:37). Throughout Israel's history, Moab was a frequent adversary, characterized by pride and hostility towards God's people, as evidenced in passages like [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Arrogance") and [Jeremiah 48:29](/jeremiah/48-29 "Jeremiah 48:29 - Moab's Pride and Haughtiness"). The imagery of "trodden down" (Hebrew: _dûwsh_) evokes the agricultural practice of threshing grain, where oxen or implements would trample the harvest to separate the grain from the straw. The phrase "trodden down for the dunghill" refers to the disposal of worthless straw, often mixed with animal waste to create fertilizer. This was a common, highly degrading image in the ancient Near East, signifying utter worthlessness, defilement, and complete annihilation, leaving no remnant of value or dignity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, demonstrating God's active and unwavering presence over His chosen people and His holy mountain. The "hand of the LORD" signifies His power, authority, and protective care, ensuring the security of His kingdom. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment**, portraying the decisive and complete defeat of all who oppose God. Moab serves as a vivid archetype of human pride and rebellion, whose ultimate humiliation is a testament to God's righteous wrath. This ties into the broader theme of **Humiliation of Pride**, a recurring motif in the Old Testament, where human arrogance is inevitably brought low by divine power, as seen in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before Destruction"). Finally, the verse reinforces the **Ultimate Triumph of God's Kingdom**, asserting that despite all earthly opposition, God's purposes will prevail, and His dwelling place will remain secure.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mountain (Hebrew, _har'_):** This word, a shortened form of הָרָר, refers to a mountain or range of hills, often used figuratively. In this context, "this mountain" (H2022) is a direct reference to Mount Zion in Jerusalem, which is repeatedly depicted in Isaiah as the place of God's presence, salvation, and ultimate rule (e.g., [Isaiah 2:2-3](/isaiah/2-2 "Isaiah 2:2-3 - The Mountain of the Lord's House")). It symbolizes the spiritual and physical center of God's kingdom, a place of security and divine favor.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** This primitive word (H3027) denotes the open hand, signifying power, means, direction, and authority. When associated with "the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), it expresses God's active involvement, strength, and sovereign control. The "hand of the LORD" resting implies not a passive presence, but a deliberate, powerful, and protective posture, indicating divine favor, security, and the exercise of His will over Zion.
* **trodden down (Hebrew, _dûwsh'_):** This primitive root (H1758) means to trample or thresh, implying a crushing action. Used twice in the verse, it vividly describes the complete subjugation and humiliation of Moab. The imagery is drawn from the agricultural process of threshing, where grain is separated from straw by being trampled, signifying a forceful and destructive act that renders the object worthless.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For in this mountain shall the hand of the LORD rest":** This clause establishes the security and divine favor upon Mount Zion, representing God's chosen dwelling and His people. The "hand of the LORD" resting signifies His active, protective presence, His sovereign power, and His unwavering commitment to His kingdom. It conveys a sense of peace and stability for those under His care, a stark contrast to the fate of His enemies.
* **"and Moab shall be trodden down under him":** This part of the verse declares the inevitable and forceful subjugation of Moab. Moab, a historical enemy of Israel and a symbol of human pride and rebellion against God, is depicted as being utterly defeated. The action of being "trodden down" implies a complete and humiliating conquest, leaving Moab powerless and subservient.
* **"even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill":** This powerful simile intensifies the imagery of Moab's defeat, illustrating the extent of their degradation. Straw, after being threshed, is considered worthless and is often mixed with dung to be used as fertilizer, or simply discarded. This comparison emphasizes that Moab's defeat will be absolute, rendering them utterly worthless, defiled, and destined for complete disposal, stripped of all dignity and significance.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 25:10 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic message. **Symbolism** is prominent, with "this mountain" symbolizing Mount Zion, God's secure dwelling and the center of His kingdom, while "Moab" symbolizes all human pride and opposition to God. The "hand of the LORD" is a powerful **anthropomorphism**, attributing human characteristics (a hand) to God to convey His active power, presence, and protection. The verse employs a striking **Contrast** between the divine rest and security on God's mountain and the violent trampling and humiliation of His enemies. The most vivid device is the **Simile** in the latter half of the verse: "even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill." This comparison uses a common agricultural practice to convey extreme degradation, worthlessness, and complete disposal, effectively communicating the utter annihilation of Moab's pride and power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 25:10 profoundly illustrates God's unassailable sovereignty and His commitment to His people, while simultaneously revealing the inevitable judgment upon all who oppose Him. The "rest" of God's hand on Mount Zion speaks to the divine security and peace that emanates from His presence, a peace promised to those who trust in Him. Conversely, Moab's humiliating defeat serves as a universal principle: human pride and rebellion, no matter how formidable, are ultimately no match for the Almighty. This verse, therefore, offers both comfort to the faithful, assuring them of God's protective embrace, and a stern warning to the proud, reminding them that all earthly power and arrogance will eventually be brought to nothing before the Lord of hosts. It points to a future where God's kingdom alone stands secure, and all opposition is utterly vanquished.

* [Psalm 46:5](/psalms/46-5 "Psalm 46:5 - God is in the midst of her")
* [Zechariah 14:11](/zechariah/14-11 "Zechariah 14:11 - No More Curse in Jerusalem")
* [Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Treading of the Winepress")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 25:10 provides a powerful dual message that resonates deeply with believers today. For those who belong to God, it is a profound source of comfort and assurance. The image of the "hand of the LORD rest[ing]" on His mountain reminds us that God is actively present, powerfully protecting, and faithfully sustaining His people. In a world filled with uncertainty and opposition, we can find peace knowing that our ultimate security rests not in human strength or fleeting circumstances, but in the unwavering sovereignty of God. This should inspire confidence and trust, encouraging us to lean into His protective care and find our rest in Him. Conversely, the verse serves as a sobering warning to those who stand in pride or opposition to God's will. The fate of Moab, reduced to worthless refuse, underscores the futility of human arrogance and rebellion. It calls us to humility, repentance, and submission to God's righteous rule, reminding us that true dignity and lasting significance are found only in aligning ourselves with His purposes. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to examine where our trust lies and to acknowledge that God's kingdom will prevail, and all who oppose it will be brought low.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust more fully in the "hand of the LORD" resting over you?**
* **How might pride manifest in your own life, and what steps can you take to cultivate humility before God?**
* **Considering Moab's fate, what does this verse teach you about the ultimate outcome of opposing God's will?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "this mountain" in Isaiah 25:10?**

Answer: "This mountain" refers to Mount Zion, which is Jerusalem and the site of God's Temple. In prophetic literature, Mount Zion often symbolizes God's dwelling place, the center of His covenant people, and the secure, eternal capital of His kingdom. The phrase "the hand of the LORD rest" upon it signifies God's active, protective presence, His sovereign authority, and His unwavering commitment to His chosen place and people, ensuring their ultimate security and triumph.

**Why is Moab specifically mentioned as being "trodden down"?**

Answer: Moab (H4124) is singled out not merely as a specific nation, but as a representative archetype of all nations and powers that stand in proud opposition to God and His people. Historically, Moab was a frequent and arrogant adversary of Israel, known for its haughtiness (e.g., [Isaiah 16:6](/isaiah/16-6 "Isaiah 16:6 - Moab's Arrogance")). By depicting Moab's utter humiliation, Isaiah conveys a universal message: all human pride, rebellion, and anti-God forces, no matter how strong or persistent, will ultimately face decisive and degrading divine judgment.

**What does the imagery of "straw is trodden down for the dunghill" convey?**

Answer: This vivid imagery (H4963 for straw, H4087 and H4325 for dunghill/water) is drawn from ancient agricultural practices. After grain was threshed, the leftover straw was considered worthless. It was often mixed with animal waste to form manure for fertilizing fields, or simply discarded. To be "trodden down for the dunghill" signifies the ultimate degree of worthlessness, defilement, and complete disposal. It conveys absolute humiliation, degradation, and annihilation, indicating that Moab will be stripped of all dignity, power, and significance, reduced to something utterly contemptible and fit only for refuse.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 25:10 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His established kingdom. The "mountain" upon which the "hand of the LORD rests" foreshadows the New Jerusalem and the eternal kingdom of God, which is fully realized in Christ. Jesus, as the incarnate "hand of the LORD," perfectly embodies God's protective presence and sovereign power. His life, death, and resurrection demonstrate God's unwavering commitment to His people, establishing a spiritual Zion where believers find ultimate rest and security (cf. [Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - Mount Zion, the City of the Living God")). Furthermore, the trampling of Moab, representing all opposition to God, is powerfully fulfilled in Christ's decisive victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness. Through His cross and resurrection, Jesus "disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The imagery of trampling is echoed in New Testament depictions of Christ's final triumph, where He treads the winepress of God's wrath against all unrighteousness ([Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's Treading of the Winepress")). Thus, Isaiah 25:10 points forward to the ultimate reign of Christ, where His people find secure refuge under His sovereign hand, and all enemies are utterly subdued and brought to nothing, ensuring the eternal triumph of God's 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

Zephaniah 2:9

Therefore [as] I live, saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, [even] the breeding of nettles, and saltpits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them.

Amos 2:1

¶ Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away [the punishment] thereof; because he burned the bones of the king of Edom into lime:

Amos 2:3

And I will cut off the judge from the midst thereof, and will slay all the princes thereof with him, saith the LORD.

Isaiah 25:6

¶ And in this mountain shall the LORD of hosts make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined.

Jeremiah 48:2

[There shall be] no more praise of Moab: in Heshbon they have devised evil against it; come, and let us cut it off from [being] a nation. Also thou shalt be cut down, O Madmen; the sword shall pursue thee.

Zephaniah 3:15

The LORD hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the king of Israel, [even] the LORD, [is] in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more.

Zephaniah 3:17

The LORD thy God in the midst of thee [is] mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.