Isaiah 25:2

KJV

For thou hast made of a city an heap; [of] a defenced city a ruin: a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built.

KJV (with Strong's)

For thou hast made {H7760} of a city {H5892} an heap {H1530}; of a defenced {H1219} city {H7151} a ruin {H4654}: a palace {H759} of strangers {H2114} to be no city {H5892}; it shall never {H5769} be built {H1129}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For you have made a city a heap of stones, turned a fortified city into rubble, made the foreigners' fortress a city that will never be rebuilt.

Berean Standard Bible

Indeed, You have made the city a heap of rubble, the fortified town a ruin. The fortress of strangers is a city no more; it will never be rebuilt.

American Standard Version

For thou hast made of a city a heap, of a fortified city a ruin, a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 25:2 powerfully declares God's absolute and irreversible judgment upon a formidable, fortified city, which serves as a potent symbol of human pride, self-sufficiency, and opposition to divine authority. This once-impregnable stronghold, representing any earthly kingdom or system built apart from God, is utterly reduced to a desolate ruin, its destruction so complete and final that it is condemned to perpetual desolation, never to be rebuilt. This pronouncement stands as a profound testament to Yahweh's omnipotent sovereignty, His unwavering justice against the arrogant and oppressive, and His steadfast commitment to dismantle all that resists His righteous reign, thereby paving the way for the ultimate establishment of His glorious kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 25:2 is situated within a significant prophetic section often referred to as Isaiah's "Little Apocalypse" (chapters 24-27), which vividly portrays a period of universal judgment followed by a glorious era of salvation and the establishment of God's kingdom. Chapter 24 sets the stage by depicting widespread desolation across the earth, a consequence of humanity's pervasive sin and covenant breaking. Following this devastating portrayal, chapter 25 opens with a profound hymn of praise from the prophet in [Isaiah 25:1](/isaiah/25-1 "Isaiah 25:1 - A Hymn of Praise to God's Faithfulness"), acknowledging God's mighty acts and faithful, pre-ordained plans. Verse 2 specifically provides a concrete reason for this exuberant praise: God's decisive, comprehensive, and permanent overthrow of a formidable "city," which stands in stark contrast to the divine order and represents human rebellion. This act of destruction is presented not as an end in itself, but as a necessary precursor to the glorious feast and divine comfort promised later in [Isaiah 25:6-8](/isaiah/25-6-8 "Isaiah 25:6-8 - The Feast on Mount Zion and Victory Over Death"), highlighting God's ultimate triumph over all opposing forces and His provision for His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the "city" in Isaiah 25:2 is not explicitly named, it is widely interpreted as a symbolic representation of a powerful, oppressive empire that historically stood against God's people, such as Assyria or Babylon, or perhaps a broader archetype of human rebellion and defiance. In the ancient Near East, cities were the epicenters of power, wealth, and military might, often heavily fortified with massive walls and elaborate defenses, making their destruction an undertaking of immense scale and significance. The concept of a "defenced city" (a stronghold or fortress) would have immediately conveyed an image of invincibility and security to the original audience. The phrase "palace of strangers" further points to a foreign, non-Israelite power, likely one that had oppressed Judah. Culturally, the fall of such a city signified the complete subjugation of its inhabitants and the triumph of the conquering deity or power. Isaiah's prophecy, however, elevates this to a divine act, demonstrating that even the most formidable human constructs are utterly vulnerable and destined for ruin before the Lord of Hosts.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Omnipotence**, demonstrating God's absolute power to dismantle even the most formidable human strongholds and orchestrate the rise and fall of nations, as seen in the divine control over kingdoms described in [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Secondly, it highlights **God's Justice and Judgment** against pride, oppression, and rebellion. The "city" symbolizes the "city of man," built on human strength and defiance, in stark contrast to the "city of God" (Zion), which God Himself establishes and protects. The irreversible destruction of this city signifies God's righteous retribution against those who defy Him and oppress His people, a theme powerfully echoed in the ultimate judgment of symbolic Babylon in [Revelation 18](/revelation/18 "Revelation 18 - The Fall of Babylon"). Thirdly, the emphatic declaration "it shall never be built" emphasizes the **Finality and Irreversibility of God's Decrees**. Unlike the cyclical rise and fall of earthly empires, God's judgment brings about a permanent end to this oppressive power, ensuring a decisive and lasting triumph over evil and paving the way for the eternal kingdom of God, which is contrasted with earthly cities in [Hebrews 11:10](/hebrews/11-10 "Hebrews 11:10 - The City with Foundations").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **heap (Hebrew, _gal_):** From H1530, this word refers to something rolled, specifically a pile of stone or dung, or by extension, ruins. Its use here vividly conveys the utter demolition of the city, reducing it to a chaotic pile of debris, emphasizing that nothing recognizable of its former structure remains. It signifies a complete and humiliating destruction, a mere jumble of what once was.
* **defenced (Hebrew, _bâtsar_):** From H1219, this root means "to be isolated (i.e., inaccessible by height or fortification)," or "to fortify." When applied to a city, it describes a stronghold that is heavily fortified, seemingly impregnable, and secure against attack. The prophet's use of this word underscores the magnitude of God's power—that even the most secure human defenses and the most formidable fortifications are utterly powerless before Him.
* **never (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm_):** From H5769, this term properly means "concealed," referring to the vanishing point, and generally denotes "time out of mind," or "eternity" (past or future). In this context, it emphasizes the absolute and perpetual nature of the city's destruction. It will not merely be destroyed for a time, but its ruin is permanent; it will exist no more, signifying the finality and irreversibility of God's judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thou hast made of a city an heap":** This opening clause immediately attributes the destructive act directly to God ("thou hast made"), highlighting His active agency. The transformation of a structured, inhabited "city" into a formless "heap" signifies a complete and utter demolition. It's not merely damaged or abandoned, but reduced to an unrecognizable pile of rubble, demonstrating God's power to dismantle and nullify human constructs.
* **"of a defenced city a ruin":** This phrase serves as a powerful parallel intensification of the first clause. The "defenced city" emphasizes its former strength, its supposed invincibility, and its human efforts at security, yet God has turned it into a "ruin." The term "ruin" (mappâlâh) implies something fallen or collapsed, underscoring the catastrophic collapse of its defenses and structures, showcasing that no human fortification, no matter how strong, can withstand divine judgment.
* **"a palace of strangers to be no city":** This clause further specifies the nature of the destroyed entity and its inhabitants. A "palace" signifies the very seat of power, wealth, and authority, likely belonging to a foreign, oppressive regime ("strangers"). Its transformation "to be no city" means it ceases to exist as a functional, inhabited, or powerful entity. It is stripped of its identity, its purpose, and its very being, underscoring the completeness of its eradication and the end of its dominion.
* **"it shall never be built":** This final, emphatic declaration seals the fate of the city with absolute certainty. The use of "never" (ʻôwlâm) conveys absolute permanence and eternality. Unlike other cities that might be rebuilt after destruction, this one is condemned to perpetual desolation. This highlights the finality and irreversible nature of God's judgment against this symbol of human rebellion and oppression, ensuring its influence is permanently eradicated.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 25:2 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment and triumph. **Parallelism** is prominently featured, specifically a form of synonymous parallelism where the second and third clauses ("of a defenced city a ruin," "a palace of strangers to be no city") essentially repeat and intensify the core idea of the first clause ("of a city an heap"). This deliberate repetition serves to drive home the completeness, thoroughness, and devastating finality of the destruction. The progression from a general "city" to a "defenced city" and then to a "palace of strangers" also adds a climactic element, illustrating that even the most fortified and powerful centers of foreign dominion are utterly vulnerable to God's decree. **Hyperbole** is evident in the description of the destruction as so absolute that the city will "never be built." While some ancient cities were indeed abandoned after conquest, the phrase here transcends mere physical desolation to emphasize the ultimate and irreversible nature of God's decree, signifying a permanent end to its influence and existence. Finally, **Symbolism** is central, as the "city" functions as a profound symbol not merely of a literal urban center, but of human pride, rebellion, oppressive power structures, and all systems that stand in defiance of God. Its destruction symbolizes God's ultimate triumph over all forms of evil and human arrogance, paving the way for His righteous kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 25:2 powerfully articulates the profound theological truth of God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His unwavering commitment to justice. It serves as a stark reminder that no human empire, no matter how fortified, wealthy, or seemingly invincible, can ultimately withstand the divine decree. This verse underscores the transience and ultimate futility of all human constructs built on pride, self-sufficiency, and opposition to God, contrasting them sharply with the eternal and unshakeable nature of God's own kingdom. The destruction of this symbolic "city" is not merely an act of wrath but a necessary, redemptive step in God's overarching plan, clearing the way for the establishment of His righteous reign where His people will find ultimate security, provision, and peace. It foreshadows the ultimate dismantling of all systems of evil and oppression, assuring believers that God will indeed bring about a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells eternally.

* [Revelation 18:21](/revelation/18-21 "Revelation 18:21 - The Symbolic Fall of Babylon")
* [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - God's Kingdom Will Never Be Destroyed")
* [Psalm 46:6](/psalms/46-6 "Psalm 46:6 - God's Voice Melts the Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 25:2 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers navigating a world often dominated by powerful, oppressive systems and the pervasive presence of human pride. Firstly, it instills a deep sense of **hope amidst despair**: when faced with seemingly insurmountable injustices, tyrannical powers, or systems that appear impervious to change, this verse reminds us that no human authority is ultimate. God sees, God judges, and God will, in His perfect timing and by His sovereign power, dismantle all that stands against His righteousness. This should profoundly encourage us to trust in His overarching plan, even when immediate circumstances seem bleak or overwhelming. Secondly, it calls for **humility among the powerful**: for those in positions of influence, whether in government, business, church, or family, this passage serves as a solemn warning that all earthly authority is temporary and ultimately subject to God's supreme decree. Pride, self-reliance, and the abuse of power inevitably lead to ruin, not lasting success. It challenges us to use any influence we have for justice, righteousness, and the welfare of others, aligning with God's purposes rather than our own fleeting ambitions. Finally, it reinforces the **certainty of God's victory**: the emphatic declaration that the city "shall never be built" assures us of the finality and permanence of God's triumph over all evil. This provides a deep sense of security and peace, knowing that our ultimate hope is not in the fleeting powers, transient structures, or temporary successes of this world, but in the eternal, unshakeable, and victorious kingdom of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "cities" or strongholds in my own life, or in the societal and political structures around me, seem insurmountable or oppressive, and how does this verse encourage me to view them through God's sovereign lens?**
* **In what ways might I, or those I know, be tempted to build "palaces of strangers"—structures of pride, self-reliance, unrighteous gain, or worldly security—that are ultimately destined for ruin before God?**
* **How does the permanence of this destruction ("it shall never be built") deepen my trust in God's ultimate justice, His unwavering faithfulness, and the finality of His victory over all evil?**

### FAQ
**What "city" is Isaiah referring to in this verse?**

Answer: While Isaiah does not name a specific city, the "city" in Isaiah 25:2 is generally understood as a symbolic representation. It likely refers to any powerful, fortified capital of an empire that stood in opposition to God and oppressed His people, such as Babylon or Assyria, which were prominent threats during Isaiah's time. More broadly, it symbolizes the "city of man"—any human system, kingdom, or stronghold built on pride, self-sufficiency, and rebellion against God, in contrast to the [city of God, Jerusalem](/psalms/48-1 "Psalm 48:1 - The City of God"), or the New Jerusalem.

**Is the destruction described here literal or symbolic?**

Answer: The destruction is described in very literal terms ("heap," "ruin," "no city"), suggesting a physical demolition. However, given the symbolic nature of the "city" itself, the destruction also carries profound symbolic meaning. It represents the complete and irreversible dismantling of all human power, systems, and ideologies that defy God. It signifies the spiritual and political downfall of all that opposes God's righteous rule, leading to a permanent end to its influence and existence. This dual literal and symbolic interpretation is common in prophetic literature, allowing the specific historical context to point to a broader, timeless theological truth.

**How does this verse apply to believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, Isaiah 25:2 offers several key applications. Firstly, it provides immense hope and comfort for those living under oppressive regimes or experiencing injustice, reminding them that no earthly power is ultimate and God will bring down all forms of tyranny. Secondly, it serves as a powerful warning against human pride and self-reliance, urging those in positions of power to humble themselves before God and wield their influence righteously. Thirdly, it reinforces the certainty of God's ultimate victory over all evil, assuring us that His kingdom will prevail and all opposing forces will be permanently eradicated, as seen in the ultimate triumph described in [Revelation 21](/revelation/21 "Revelation 21 - The New Heaven and New Earth").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 25:2, with its declaration of the permanent destruction of the "city" of human rebellion and oppression, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. This "city," representing all systems of sin, death, and human defiance against God, is definitively conquered and brought to ruin through Christ's atoning sacrifice and victorious resurrection. The seemingly impregnable stronghold of sin, which held humanity captive and condemned, was utterly made "a ruin" when Christ triumphed over it on the cross, disarming the powers and authorities and putting them to open shame ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). Furthermore, the emphatic declaration that "it shall never be built" points to the absolute finality of Christ's victory over death and the establishment of His eternal, unshakeable kingdom. Unlike temporary earthly empires and their transient palaces, Christ's reign is everlasting, and His victory over the forces of darkness is irreversible and complete ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - The Unshakable Kingdom")). The "palace of strangers" that oppressed humanity is forever replaced by the [New Jerusalem](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descending"), the eternal city of God, where Christ reigns supreme, and where there is no more curse, sorrow, or death ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Mourning")). Thus, Isaiah 25:2 foreshadows the comprehensive and permanent dismantling of all that opposes God, accomplished definitively through Christ, making way for His glorious and everlasting kingdom of righteousness and peace.

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 13:22

And the wild beasts of the islands shall cry in their desolate houses, and dragons in [their] pleasant palaces: and her time [is] near to come, and her days shall not be prolonged.

Isaiah 17:1

¶ The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from [being] a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.

Isaiah 25:12

And the fortress of the high fort of thy walls shall he bring down, lay low, [and] bring to the ground, [even] to the dust.

Isaiah 21:9

And, behold, here cometh a chariot of men, [with] a couple of horsemen. And he answered and said, Babylon is fallen, is fallen; and all the graven images of her gods he hath broken unto the ground.

Revelation 18:2

And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.

Revelation 18:3

For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.

Revelation 18:19

And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate.