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Study this verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Isaiah 25:9–12. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The welcome which the church shall give to these blessings promised in the foregoing verses (Isa 25:9): It shall be said in that day, with a humble holy triumph and exultation, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him! Thus will the deliverance of the church out of long and sore troubles be celebrated; thus will it be as life from the dead. With such transports of joy and praise will those entertain the glad tidings of the Redeemer who looked for him, and for redemption in Jerusalem by him; and with such a triumphant song as this will glorified saints enter into the joy of their Lord. 1. God himself must have the glory of all: "Lo, this is our God, this is the Lord. This which is done is his doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes. Herein he has done like himself, has magnified his own wisdom, power, and goodness. Herein he has done for us like our God, a God in covenant with us, and whom we serve." Note, Our triumphs must not terminate in what God does for us and gives to us, but must pass through them to himself, who is the author and giver of them: This is our God. Have any of the nations of the earth such a God to trust to? No, their rock is not as our rock. There is none like unto the God of Jerusalem. 2. The longer it has been expected the more welcome it is. "This is he whom we have waited for, in dependence upon his word of promise, and a full assurance that he would come in the set time, in due time, and therefore we were willing to tarry his time; and now we find it is not in vain to wait for him, for the mercy comes at last, with an abundant recompence for the delay." 3. It is matter of joy unspeakable: "We will be glad and rejoice in his salvation. We that share in the benefits of it will concur in the joyful thanksgivings for it." 4. It is an encouragement to hope for the continuance and perfection of this salvation: We have waited for him, and he will save us, will carry on what he has begun; for as for God, our God, his work is perfect.
II.A prospect of further blessings for the securing and perpetuating of these.
1.The power of God shall be engaged for them and shall continue to take their part: In this mountain shall the hand of the Lord rest, Isa 25:10. The church and people of God shall have continued proofs of God's presence with them and residence among them: his hand shall be continually over them, to protect and guard them, and continually stretched out to them, for their supply. Mount Zion is his rest for ever; here he will dwell.
2.The power of their enemies, which is engaged against them, shall be broken. Moab is here put for all the adversaries of God's people, that are vexatious to them; they shall all be trodden down or threshed (for then they beat out the corn by treading it) and shall be thrown out as straw to the dunghill, being good for nothing else. God having caused his hand to rest upon this mountain, it shall not be a hand that hangs down, or is folded up, feeble and inactive; but he shall spread forth his hands, in the midst of his people, like one that swims, which intimates that he will employ and exert his power for them vigorously, - that he will be doing for them on all sides, - that he will easily and effectually put by the opposition that is given to his gracious intentions for them, and thereby further and push forward his good work among them, - and that on their behalf he will be continually active, for so the swimmer is. It is foretold, particularly, what he shall do for them.
(1.)He shall bring down the pride of their enemies (and Moab was notoriously guilty of pride, Isa 16:6) by one humbling judgment after another, stripping them of that which they are proud of.
(2.)He shall bring down the spoils of their hands, shall take from them that which they have got by spoil and rapine. He shall bring down the arms of their hands, which are lifted up against God's Israel; he shall quite break their power, and disable them to do mischief.
(3.)He shall ruin all their fortifications, Isa 25:12. Moab has his walls, and his high forts, with which he hopes to secure himself, and from which he designs to annoy the people of God; but God shall bring them all down, lay them low, bring them to the ground, to the dust; and so those who trusted to them will be left exposed. There is no fortress impregnable to Omnipotence, no fort so high but the arm of the Lord can overtop it and bring it down. This destruction of Moab is typical of Christ's victory over death (spoken of Isa 25:8), his spoiling principalities and powers in his cross (Col 2:15), his pulling down Satan's strong-holds by the preaching of his gospel (Co2 10:4), and his reigning till all his enemies be made his footstool, Psa 110:1.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
(Verse 9 and following) And they will say on that day: Behold, our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us; this is the Lord, we have endured him, we will rejoice and be glad in his salvation. For the hand of the Lord will rest on this mountain; and Moab shall be crushed under him, as straw is crushed on a threshing floor. And he will stretch out his hands under him, as a swimmer stretches out to swim, and his glory will be humbled with the buffeting of his hands. And the fortifications of your lofty walls will fall, and they will be humiliated and brought down to the ground, even to dust. Swallowed up by death forever, the people of God, who have been delivered from the hand of death, will say to the Lord: Behold, this is our God, whom the unbelievers thought so little of; and we have waited for him, that is, we have believed in his words, because he will fulfill his promises and save us. Therefore, having been rescued from the jaws of death by his help, we will rejoice and be glad in him; and his hand and power will rest on this mountain. Regarding what we read above: When the Lord of hosts reigns on Mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and is glorified in the presence of his elders (Isaiah 24:23). But Moab, which means 'from the father', will be crushed like straw is crushed by a wagon. This is spoken according to the custom of Palestine and many provinces of the East, which, due to a shortage of meadows and hay, prepare straw for the feeding of animals. These are iron wagons, with wheels that rotate in the middle like saws, which crush and break the straw into pieces. Therefore, just as wagon wheels crush straw, so Moab would be crushed under him, either under God's power or in itself, so that nothing remains intact in it. And just as a person who swims tends to stretch out their whole body, so he will collide with the ground from his own power and make a crashing sound. All the fortifications of those mighty men, both the walls as stated in Hebrew, will collapse, be humiliated, and be brought down to the ground, shattered into dust. Therefore, although the prophetic discourse generally refers to the consummation of the world, it does not entirely neglect the present. It mentions Moab, who was an enemy of Israel, to such an extent that they committed fornication with the Midianites and consecrated themselves to the idol Beelphegor, which is interpreted as Priapus. Against this idol Jeremiah speaks: Chamos will go into captivity, along with its priests and princes (Jeremiah 48:7). And again: Moab will be confounded with Chamos, just as the house of Israel was confounded with Bethel (Ibid., 13), and similar things can be found throughout. And from one idol and the demon that presided over this idol, it indicates that all opposing strengths are to be humiliated and led into Tartarus, and crushed like dust. But if this is the case, where is the devil's repentance?
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Summary
Isaiah 25:10 powerfully declares the Lord's unwavering presence and protective sovereignty over His chosen dwelling, Mount Zion, while simultaneously foretelling the complete and irreversible humiliation of His adversaries. This verse encapsulates the divine assurance of God's ultimate victory and the secure establishment of His kingdom, 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 embedded within a magnificent prophetic song of praise and triumph (Isaiah 25:1-12), which itself forms a crucial part of a larger eschatological section often called the "Little Apocalypse" (Isaiah 24-27). This chapter celebrates God's righteous judgment and His glorious salvation for His people. Immediately preceding this verse, Isaiah 25:6-8 vividly portrays a magnificent feast prepared by the Lord on Mount Zion for all peoples, where death will be swallowed up forever and tears wiped away from every face. This promise of universal blessing and comfort for God's redeemed is then sharply contrasted in verse 10, which 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 juxtaposition of the secure, resting hand of the Lord on His holy mountain and the violent trampling of Moab underscores the two-fold outcome of God's eschatological work: ultimate salvation for His faithful and decisive 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 spiritual and physical center of His covenant people. Historically, Moab was a nation located 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 and Jeremiah 48:29. The imagery of "trodden down" (Hebrew: dûwsh) evokes the ancient agricultural practice of threshing grain, where oxen or implements would trample the harvest to separate the valuable grain from the worthless straw. The phrase "trodden down for the dunghill" refers to the disposal of this 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 and inviolability 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 motif of the Humiliation of Pride, a recurring principle in the Old Testament, where human arrogance is inevitably brought low by divine power, as seen in Proverbs 16:18. 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 eternally secure.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word, a shortened form of הָרָר, refers to a mountain or range of hills, sometimes used figuratively. In this context, "this mountain" 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. It symbolizes the spiritual and physical center of God's kingdom, a place of security and divine favor.
This primitive word 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.
This primitive root 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 profound sense of peace, stability, and inviolability for those under His care, standing in 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 symbolic representation of human pride and rebellion against God, is depicted as being utterly defeated and brought low. The action of being "trodden down" implies a complete and humiliating conquest, leaving Moab powerless, subservient, and without any means of resistance.
"even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill"
This powerful simile intensifies the imagery of Moab's defeat, illustrating the full extent of their degradation and worthlessness. Straw, after being threshed, is considered worthless and is often mixed with animal waste to be used as fertilizer, or simply discarded as refuse. This comparison emphasizes that Moab's defeat will be absolute, rendering them utterly contemptible, defiled, and destined for complete disposal, stripped of all dignity, value, and significance.
Literary Devices
Isaiah 25:10 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic message and emotional impact. Symbolism is prominently employed, with "this mountain" symbolizing Mount Zion, God's secure dwelling and the eternal center of His kingdom, while "Moab" serves as a potent symbol for all human pride, rebellion, and opposition to God. The "hand of the LORD" is a powerful anthropomorphism, attributing a human characteristic (a hand) to God to convey His active power, protective presence, and sovereign authority in a tangible way. The verse employs a striking Contrast between the divine rest and security experienced on God's mountain and the violent trampling and utter 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, universally understood agricultural practice to convey extreme degradation, worthlessness, and complete disposal, effectively communicating the utter annihilation of Moab's pride and power, reducing them to mere refuse.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Isaiah 25:10 profoundly illustrates God's unassailable sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His people, while simultaneously revealing the inevitable and comprehensive judgment upon all who oppose Him. The "rest" of God's hand on Mount Zion speaks to the divine security, peace, and steadfast presence that emanates from His dwelling place, 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 or entrenched, are ultimately no match for the Almighty. This verse, therefore, offers both profound comfort to the faithful, assuring them of God's protective embrace and the security of His kingdom, and a stern warning to the proud and rebellious, 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 triumphant, and all opposition is utterly vanquished.
Reflection and Application
Isaiah 25:10 delivers a powerful dual message that resonates deeply with believers today, offering both profound comfort and a sobering warning. For those who belong to God, the image of the "hand of the LORD rest[ing]" on His mountain is a rich source of assurance. It reminds us that God is actively present, powerfully protecting, and faithfully sustaining His people. In a world filled with uncertainty, chaos, and opposition, we can find profound peace knowing that our ultimate security rests not in human strength or fleeting circumstances, but in the unwavering sovereignty of God. This truth should inspire unwavering confidence and trust, encouraging us to lean into His protective care and find our rest and refuge in Him amidst life's storms. Conversely, the verse serves as a stark and sobering warning to those who stand in pride or active opposition to God's will. The fate of Moab, reduced to worthless refuse, underscores the utter futility of human arrogance and rebellion against the Almighty. It calls us to cultivate humility, to embrace repentance, and to submit wholeheartedly to God's righteous rule, reminding us that true dignity, lasting significance, and eternal security are found only in aligning ourselves with His divine purposes. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to examine where our trust truly lies and to acknowledge that God's kingdom will prevail, and all who oppose it will inevitably be brought low.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "this mountain" in Isaiah 25:10?
"This mountain" (H2022, har') refers primarily 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" (H3027, yâd', and H5117, nûwach') 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 against all adversaries.
Why is Moab specifically mentioned as being "trodden down"?
Moab (H4124, Môwʼâb) is singled out not merely as a specific historical 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). 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 at the hand of the Almighty.
What does the imagery of "straw is trodden down for the dunghill" convey?
This vivid imagery (H4963, mathbên, for straw; H4087, madmênâh, for dunghill) 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 as refuse. 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 (Hebrews 12:22-24). 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). 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, utterly subduing His enemies (Revelation 19:15). 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.