Isaiah 30:33

KJV

For Tophet [is] ordained of old; yea, for the king it is prepared; he hath made [it] deep [and] large: the pile thereof [is] fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.

KJV (with Strong's)

For Tophet {H8613} is ordained {H6186} of old {H865}; yea, for the king {H4428} it is prepared {H3559}; he hath made it deep {H6009} and large {H7337}: the pile {H4071} thereof is fire {H784} and much {H7235} wood {H6086}; the breath {H5397} of the LORD {H3068}, like a stream {H5158} of brimstone {H1614}, doth kindle {H1197} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the Tofet fire pit has long been ready, prepared for the king, made large and deep, with plenty of wood and blazing with fire; like a stream of sulfur, ADONAI's breath sets it aflame.

Berean Standard Bible

For Topheth has long been prepared; it has been made ready for the king. Its funeral pyre is deep and wide, with plenty of fire and wood. The breath of the LORD, like a torrent of burning sulfur, sets it ablaze.

American Standard Version

For a Topheth is prepared of old; yea, for the king it is made ready; he hath made it deep and large; the pile thereof is fire and much wood; the breath of Jehovah, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 30:33 delivers a stark and vivid prophecy of divine judgment, portraying a pre-ordained and intensely fiery destruction prepared for the oppressive Assyrian king. This verse serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty over nations and His unwavering commitment to justice, assuring His people that even the most formidable enemies will face His decisive and consuming wrath, supernaturally kindled by His very own breath.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah chapter 30 is primarily a prophetic denunciation of Judah's reliance on a military alliance with Egypt for protection against the looming Assyrian threat, rather than trusting in the Lord. The chapter begins with a "woe" pronounced upon those who go down to Egypt, highlighting their rebellious spirit and refusal to heed God's word, as seen in [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1-7 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to Rebellious Children"). Despite Judah's stubbornness, the chapter shifts from warnings of judgment to glorious promises of future restoration and blessing for those who repent and turn to God, detailed in [Isaiah 30:18-26](/isaiah/30-18-26 "Isaiah 30:18-26 - God's Grace and Restoration"). Verse 33, however, culminates this narrative arc by describing the ultimate, terrifying fate of Judah's oppressor, Assyria. It immediately follows a description of God's powerful intervention, where the "rod of the LORD" will strike the Assyrians, accompanied by music and celebration for Judah, as prophesied in [Isaiah 30:31-32](/isaiah/30-31-32 "Isaiah 30:31-32 - The Fall of Assyria"). Thus, Isaiah 30:33 functions as the climactic declaration of divine retribution, assuring God's people of their oppressor's complete and fiery destruction, thereby securing their deliverance and vindication.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Isaiah 30 is the late 8th century BCE, a period dominated by the relentless expansion of the Assyrian Empire. Under formidable kings like Tiglath-Pileser III, Sargon II, and Sennacherib, Assyria posed an existential threat to the smaller nations of the Levant, including Judah. King Hezekiah of Judah, despite Isaiah's repeated warnings, was tempted to form alliances with Egypt, a traditional rival of Assyria, seeking military aid and protection. This political maneuvering reflected a profound lack of faith in God's ability and willingness to protect His people. Culturally, the reference to "Tophet" is profoundly significant. Tophet was a specific location in the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna), just outside Jerusalem, infamous for the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice to the pagan god Molech, a practice condemned in [2 Kings 23:10](/2_kings/23-10 "2 Kings 23:10 - Tophet and Child Sacrifice"). By Isaiah's time, it had become a place of defilement and, later, a refuse dump where fires constantly burned. The imagery of a "deep and large" pyre, fueled by "fire and much wood," and kindled by "brimstone," would have evoked terrifying and familiar associations with ritualistic destruction and divine judgment, reminiscent of the cataclysmic destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, where the Lord rained down "brimstone and fire" from heaven, as recounted in [Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "Genesis 19:24 - Sodom and Gomorrah's Destruction").

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment**, portraying God as an active and righteous judge who will not tolerate wickedness and oppression indefinitely. The vivid depiction of the Assyrian king's destruction symbolizes God's decisive intervention in human history to bring about justice. Secondly, it highlights **God's Sovereignty** over all nations and their rulers. The judgment is "ordained of old" and "prepared for the king," emphasizing that God is not merely reacting but is executing a pre-determined plan, demonstrating His ultimate control over the destinies of empires. This contrasts sharply with Judah's futile attempt to control its destiny through human alliances, a pervasive theme throughout [Isaiah 30](/isaiah/30 "Isaiah 30 - Trusting in the Lord"). Thirdly, the verse vividly depicts the **Intensity and Completeness of God's Wrath**. The imagery of a massive, supernaturally kindled pyre conveys the severity and finality of the judgment, leaving no doubt about the utter destruction awaiting those who oppose God. Lastly, while terrifying for the wicked, this judgment signifies **Deliverance and Vindication for God's People**. For Judah, the promised destruction of Assyria meant liberation from oppression, reinforcing the message that true security is found in trusting the Lord's protective hand, as encouraged in [Isaiah 30:15](/isaiah/30-15 "Isaiah 30:15 - In Quietness and Trust").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tophet (Hebrew, _Tophteh'_):** This term (H8613) refers to a specific place in the Valley of Hinnom, just outside Jerusalem. Historically, it was associated with the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice to the pagan god Molech. In Isaiah 30:33, "Tophet" is used metaphorically. It transcends its literal geographical meaning to symbolize a place of ultimate, fiery, and complete destruction, specifically prepared for the enemies of God, here, the Assyrian king. Its historical defilement makes it a fitting symbol for divine anathema and utter desolation.
* **Prepared (Hebrew, _kûwn'_):** The Hebrew word (H3559) signifies to "be erect," "set up," "establish," "fix," or "make ready." Its usage here, "it is prepared," emphasizes the divine intentionality and pre-ordination of this judgment. It is not a spontaneous act but a carefully planned and established decree from God. This highlights God's purposeful and sovereign control over historical events and the destinies of nations, underscoring the certainty and inevitability of the judgment.
* **Breath (Hebrew, _nᵉshâmâh'_):** This word (H5397) denotes a "puff," "wind," "vital breath," or "divine inspiration." When combined with "of the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh'_), it powerfully conveys the direct, active, and personal agency of God in kindling this destructive fire. It's not merely a natural phenomenon but God's very essence, His powerful decree, or His Spirit, that ignites the judgment. This emphasizes the supernatural origin and irresistible force of the divine wrath, demonstrating that the judgment is an emanation of God's own being.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For Tophet [is] ordained of old;"**: This clause establishes the setting and the divine decree. "Tophet" is not merely a geographical location but a powerful symbol of ultimate, fiery destruction. The phrase "ordained of old" emphasizes that this judgment is not an impulsive reaction but a long-standing, pre-determined aspect of God's sovereign plan, rooted in His eternal justice and foreknowledge.
* **"yea, for the king it is prepared;"**: This specifies the precise target of the judgment – "the king," referring to the oppressive Assyrian monarch, likely Sennacherib, who threatened Judah. The repetition of "prepared" (from the same root as "ordained") reinforces the intentionality and certainty of God's action. It signifies that this specific judgment is tailor-made for this particular oppressor, highlighting God's personal accountability for rulers.
* **"he hath made [it] deep [and] large:"**: This describes the immense scale and capacity of this metaphorical Tophet. The "deep and large" dimensions convey the vastness and thoroughness of the impending destruction, indicating that the judgment will be comprehensive, inescapable, and capable of utterly consuming its target, leaving no possibility of escape or survival.
* **"the pile thereof [is] fire and much wood;"**: This paints a vivid picture of the fuel for this inferno. "Fire and much wood" signify an abundant and inexhaustible source of combustion, indicating a judgment that is not fleeting but sustained, intense, and utterly consuming. It suggests a complete incineration, leaving nothing behind and underscoring the severity of the divine wrath.
* **"the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it."**: This climactic clause reveals the divine source and supernatural intensity of the fire. "The breath of the LORD" signifies God's direct, personal, and irresistible power, an emanation of His very being. The comparison "like a stream of brimstone" evokes the imagery of divine judgment seen in Sodom and Gomorrah, where brimstone (sulfur) was a hallmark of supernatural, unquenchable destruction. This simile emphasizes the unquenchable, divinely fueled nature of this judgment, making it an act of pure, consuming divine wrath.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 30:33 is rich in **Symbolism**. "Tophet" itself is a potent symbol, transforming a literal, defiled location into a metaphor for ultimate, fiery judgment and utter destruction. The "fire and much wood" symbolize the consuming nature and severity of this judgment, while "brimstone" (sulfur) is a biblical symbol consistently associated with divine wrath and complete annihilation. The phrase "the breath of the LORD" is an instance of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing a human characteristic (breath) to God, thereby powerfully emphasizing His direct, active, and personal involvement in kindling this judgment. The descriptions of the pyre being "deep and large" and the fire fueled by "much wood" and "a stream of brimstone" employ **Hyperbole**, exaggerating the scale and intensity to convey the overwhelming and inescapable nature of God's wrath, ensuring the reader grasps the absolute finality and totality of this divine decree.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 30:33 stands as a profound testament to God's unyielding justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers. It assures believers that no oppressor, no matter how formidable or seemingly invincible, can escape the divine reckoning. This verse connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's active involvement in history, not merely as an observer but as the righteous Judge who holds all nations accountable. The imagery of a divinely kindled, all-consuming fire foreshadows the finality of God's judgment against all evil and rebellion, providing comfort to the oppressed and a stern warning to those who defy Him. It reinforces the truth that God will ultimately vindicate His people and establish His perfect rule, bringing an end to all injustice and suffering.

* [Deuteronomy 32:22](/deuteronomy/32-22 "Deuteronomy 32:22 - God's Consuming Fire")
* [Nahum 1:6](/nahum/1-6 "Nahum 1:6 - Who Can Stand Before His Indignation?")
* [Revelation 19:20](/revelation/19-20 "Revelation 19:20 - The Beast and False Prophet Cast into the Lake of Fire")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 30:33, while terrifying in its imagery of divine judgment, offers profound comfort and a call to righteous living for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is not indifferent to the injustices and oppressions of this world. He sees, He knows, and He will act decisively. For those who feel overwhelmed by the forces of evil or the arrogance of oppressive powers, this verse assures them that a day of reckoning is coming, orchestrated by the sovereign hand of God Himself. It calls us to place our trust not in human alliances, political maneuvering, or our own strength, but in the Lord alone, knowing that He is our ultimate deliverer and defender. Furthermore, it challenges us to examine our own lives, ensuring that we are aligned with God's righteousness and not found among those who oppose His will, for His judgment is certain and inescapable for all who reject His authority and persist in rebellion. This prophecy compels us to live in reverent fear of the Lord, understanding the seriousness of His holy character and His unwavering commitment to justice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "Tophet" and "brimstone" shape your understanding of the seriousness and finality of divine judgment?**
* **In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate justice, especially when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges or injustices in the world today?**
* **What does "the breath of the LORD" kindling the fire signify about God's direct, personal, and irresistible involvement in executing justice, and how does this impact your view of His character and power?**
* **Considering this prophecy against an ancient oppressor, what principles can you apply to contemporary issues of injustice or oppression, and how should believers respond?**

### FAQ
**What is Tophet and why is it used here?**

Answer: Tophet was a literal place in the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna) just outside Jerusalem, infamous for the abhorrent practice of child sacrifice to the pagan god Molech. It was later defiled by King Josiah and became a place for burning refuse and carcasses. In [Isaiah 30:33](/isaiah/30-33 "Isaiah 30:33 - Tophet Ordained of Old"), "Tophet" is used metaphorically. It symbolizes a place of ultimate and fiery destruction, representing the most severe form of divine judgment. Its historical association with abominable practices makes it a fitting symbol for the complete and utter annihilation prepared for God's enemies, particularly the oppressive Assyrian king. It signifies a judgment that is both deserved and consuming, a place of divine anathema.

**Who is "the king" mentioned in the verse?**

Answer: "The king" primarily refers to the reigning Assyrian monarch of Isaiah's time, most likely Sennacherib, who was the formidable oppressor threatening Judah. This specific historical figure represents the immediate target of God's wrath. However, in prophetic literature, specific figures often represent broader categories. Thus, "the king" can also symbolize any oppressive power or wicked ruler who stands in defiance of God and His people throughout history. The verse declares that God's pre-ordained judgment is specifically prepared for such figures, regardless of their earthly might or perceived invincibility, demonstrating God's ultimate authority over all earthly kingdoms.

**How does "the breath of the LORD" kindle it?**

Answer: "The breath of the LORD" signifies the direct, powerful, and active agency of God Himself. In Hebrew, the word for "breath" (nᵉshâmâh, H5397) can also mean "spirit" or "wind," implying a divine, irresistible force. This phrase indicates that the judgment is not merely a natural event or a consequence of human actions, but a supernatural act initiated and sustained by God's very essence or decree. Just as God's breath gave life in creation ([Genesis 2:7](/genesis/2-7 "Genesis 2:7 - God Breathes Life into Man")), His breath here unleashes a consuming fire of judgment, demonstrating His absolute power and direct involvement in executing His will. The imagery of "a stream of brimstone" further emphasizes the supernatural and divinely fueled nature of this destructive power, reminiscent of the judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah ([Genesis 19:24](/genesis/19-24 "Genesis 19:24 - Brimstone from the Lord")), highlighting its unquenchable and utterly devastating nature.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Isaiah 30:33 vividly describes a specific historical judgment against the Assyrian king, its profound imagery of a divinely kindled, consuming fire finds its ultimate theological fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ is revealed not only as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) but also as the righteous Judge before whom all must ultimately stand ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Given All Judgment to the Son")). The "Tophet" of Isaiah, a place of historical defilement and judgment, foreshadows the New Testament concept of Gehenna, often translated as hell, which Jesus Himself frequently spoke of as a place of eternal fire and destruction for the unrighteous ([Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Fear Him Who Can Destroy Both Soul and Body in Hell"), [Mark 9:43](/mark/9-43 "Mark 9:43 - Fire That Never Quenches")). The "breath of the LORD" kindling the fire points to the irresistible power and divine authority of God's judgment, which will be fully executed through Christ at the end of the age. Just as the Assyrian king faced a pre-ordained doom, so too will all who oppose God and reject His saving grace in Christ face a final, decisive judgment. The ultimate "pile of fire and much wood" is the lake of fire, into which the beast, the false prophet, and all who are not found written in the Book of Life will be cast ([Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - Lake of Fire and Sulfur"), [Revelation 20:15](/revelation/20-15 "Revelation 20:15 - Cast into the Lake of Fire")). Thus, Isaiah 30:33 serves as a stark prophetic warning, ultimately fulfilled in the eschatological judgment administered by the resurrected Christ, ensuring that all evil and rebellion will be utterly consumed by the righteous wrath of God.

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

2 Kings 23:10

And he defiled Topheth, which [is] in the valley of the children of Hinnom, that no man might make his son or his daughter to pass through the fire to Molech.

Jeremiah 19:6

Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that this place shall no more be called Tophet, nor The valley of the son of Hinnom, but The valley of slaughter.

Genesis 19:24

¶ Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;

Matthew 4:22

And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.

Jeremiah 19:11

And shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Even so will I break this people and this city, as [one] breaketh a potter's vessel, that cannot be made whole again: and they shall bury [them] in Tophet, till [there be] no place to bury.

Jeremiah 19:14

Then came Jeremiah from Tophet, whither the LORD had sent him to prophesy; and he stood in the court of the LORD'S house; and said to all the people,

Revelation 19:18

That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all [men, both] free and bond, both small and great.