Isaiah 31:4

KJV

For thus hath the LORD spoken unto me, Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, [he] will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

For thus hath the LORD {H3068} spoken {H559} unto me, Like as the lion {H738} and the young lion {H3715} roaring {H1897} on his prey {H2964}, when a multitude {H4393} of shepherds {H7462} is called forth {H7121} against him, he will not be afraid {H2865} of their voice {H6963}, nor abase {H6031} himself for the noise {H1995} of them: so shall the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} come down {H3381} to fight {H6633} for mount {H2022} Zion {H6726}, and for the hill {H1389} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

For here is what ADONAI says to me: "As a lion or lion cub growls at its prey and isn't frightened away by the shouts of hordes of shepherds called out against him - their voices do not upset him - so likewise ADONAI-Tzva'ot will descend to fight on Mount Tziyon, on its hill.

Berean Standard Bible

For this is what the LORD has said to me: “Like a lion roaring or a young lion over its prey— and though a band of shepherds is called out against it, it is not terrified by their shouting or subdued by their clamor— so the LORD of Hosts will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and its heights.

American Standard Version

For thus saith Jehovah unto me, As the lion and the young lion growling over his prey, if a multitude of shepherds be called forth against him, will not be dismayed at their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so will Jehovah of hosts come down to fight upon mount Zion, and upon the hill thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 31:4 presents a profoundly vivid and powerful simile, portraying the LORD's unwavering and ferocious commitment to defend Jerusalem (Mount Zion) against its adversaries. Drawing an analogy to a lion fiercely guarding its prey, unperturbed by a multitude of shepherds, the prophet assures Judah that God, identified as "the LORD of hosts," will personally descend to fight for His people. This declaration serves as both a magnificent promise of divine intervention and a stark warning against the futility of relying on human alliances, particularly with Egypt, in the face of the overwhelming Assyrian threat, ultimately affirming God's supreme power and resolute protection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 31:4 is strategically positioned within a larger prophetic oracle (chapters 28-33) where the prophet Isaiah vehemently condemns Judah's misplaced trust in foreign alliances, specifically with Egypt, as a means of protection against the formidable Assyrian Empire. The verses immediately preceding this passage (Isaiah 31:1-3) explicitly pronounce a "woe" upon those who "go down to Egypt for help," highlighting the spiritual and practical folly of trusting in human military might—horses and chariots—rather than in the "Holy One of Israel." This particular verse, therefore, serves as the divine counter-argument, presenting God's own formidable, unshakeable, and personal commitment to defend Zion as the only true and effective source of security. It sharply contrasts human weakness and misplaced reliance with God's incomparable strength, faithfulness, and active intervention, setting the stage for further pronouncements of both judgment against Assyria and ultimate restoration for Judah.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for this prophecy, delivered in the late 8th century BCE, is the dire existential threat faced by the Southern Kingdom of Judah from the rapidly expanding and brutal Neo-Assyrian Empire. Assyria had already decisively conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Samaria fell in 722 BCE) and was aggressively encroaching upon Judah, culminating in Sennacherib's campaign against Jerusalem in 701 BCE. In their desperation, many within Jerusalem's leadership, including King Hezekiah's officials, sought a military alliance with Egypt, a regional power known for its impressive chariotry and cavalry. This political maneuvering represented a profound act of unfaithfulness to God's covenant, which mandated exclusive trust in Him as Israel's deliverer. Culturally, the lion was a pervasive and powerful symbol throughout the ancient Near East, representing royalty, immense strength, ferocity, and protective instinct. This deeply ingrained cultural understanding would have made Isaiah's metaphor of God as a lion particularly impactful, immediately conveying God's unchallenged supremacy over all earthly powers, including the combined forces of Assyria and Egypt, and His unyielding commitment to His people.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching theological and narrative themes prevalent throughout the book of Isaiah. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Protection and Deliverance**, asserting unequivocally that God Himself is the ultimate and invincible defender of His people and His holy city, Zion. His commitment is portrayed as fierce, unyielding, and far surpassing any human military might or strategic alliance, providing the only true security. Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **God's Sovereignty and Omnipotence**, particularly through the majestic title "the LORD of hosts" (`Yᵉhôvâh Tsâbâʼ`), which signifies His absolute command over all heavenly and earthly armies, leaving no doubt about His ability to execute His will. This divine power stands in stark contrast to the limited capabilities of human armies and political maneuvering, as explicitly highlighted in passages like [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1-7 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to those who go to Egypt for help"), where Judah's reliance on Egypt is condemned. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the verse implicitly, yet strongly, calls for **Trust in God Alone**. By vividly demonstrating God's formidable and protective nature, it serves as a divine rebuke to Judah's inclination to trust in chariots and horses, urging them instead to return to the LORD, for true and lasting security is found only in Him, a message powerfully echoed in [Isaiah 26:3-4](/isaiah/26-3-4 "Isaiah 26:3-4 - Trust in the LORD forever").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **roaring (Hebrew, _hâgâh'_):** This word, often associated with a deep, guttural sound, conveys the lion's powerful and intimidating vocalization. In the context of the lion guarding its prey, it signifies a sound of possession, warning, and fierce determination. It is not a cry of fear or distress, but an assertion of dominance and an unshakeable resolve to protect what is its own. When applied to the LORD, it suggests His authoritative declaration and unyielding commitment to defend Zion, a sound that strikes fear into His enemies and assures His people.
* **afraid (Hebrew, _châthath'_):** This term means "to prostrate," "to break down," "to be dismayed," or "terrified." The text explicitly states the lion "will not be afraid," emphasizing its utter lack of fear or intimidation despite the "multitude of shepherds" called forth against it. This highlights the lion's (and thus God's) absolute confidence, invincibility, and unwavering resolve in the face of overwhelming opposition. It underscores that no earthly power, numerical superiority, or combined force can cause the LORD to falter, retreat, or abandon His divine purpose.
* **abase (Hebrew, _ʻânâh'_):** Meaning "to depress," "to humble oneself," or "to weaken," this word further emphasizes the lion's (and God's) unyielding stance. The lion will not "abase himself for the noise of them," meaning it will not be intimidated, yield, show any sign of weakness, or submit to the clamor, shouts, or threats of its adversaries. This illustrates God's steadfastness, His refusal to be swayed or diminished by the threats or numerical superiority of His enemies, and His absolute, uncompromised resolve to protect Zion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thus hath the LORD spoken unto me,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the divine authority and infallible nature of the prophecy. Isaiah is not speaking his own words or opinions, but rather relaying a direct, verbatim revelation from YHWH, the covenant God of Israel. This declaration lends immense weight, certainty, and solemnity to the profound message that follows, grounding the subsequent powerful imagery in the immutable word of God.
* **"Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey,"**: This introduces the central and striking simile of the verse. The pairing of "the lion" (`ʼărîy`, referring to a mature, powerful lion) and "the young lion" (`kᵉphîyr`, a vigorous, emerging lion) emphasizes the full spectrum of leonine power—from seasoned, experienced prowess to youthful, untamed ferocity. Their collective "roaring on his prey" vividly depicts a creature fiercely asserting its claim, possessing its spoil, and protecting its acquisition, a sound meant to deter any challenger. This imagery immediately conjures a sense of untamed, irresistible power and an instinctual, unyielding protective nature.
* **"when a multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, [he] will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them:"**: This clause intensifies the simile by introducing the opposition and highlighting the lion's (and God's) response. A "multitude of shepherds" represents a significant, organized, and seemingly overwhelming human force. Shepherds, though not professional warriors, would be armed (with staffs, slings, etc.) and united in their efforts to protect their flocks from a dangerous predator. Yet, the lion's response—utter fearlessness and refusal to "abase himself" (to be intimidated, yield, or show any sign of weakness) despite their collective "voice" or "noise" (their shouts, threats, or attempts to drive it away)—underscores its absolute dominance, unwavering resolve, and intrinsic invincibility.
* **"so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof."**: This is the climactic application of the simile, directly connecting the lion's fierce and unyielding protection to God's promised action. "The LORD of hosts" (`Yᵉhôvâh Tsâbâʼ`) emphasizes God's supreme authority as the commander of all heavenly armies, reinforcing His limitless power and His position as the divine Warrior. His promise to "come down to fight" signifies active, personal, and decisive intervention on behalf of "mount Zion, and for the hill thereof" (referring specifically to Jerusalem and its sacred temple mount). This declaration assures Judah that God's defense will be as resolute, fearless, and effective as the lion's protection of its prey, guaranteeing the city's security against all enemies, regardless of their perceived strength or numbers.

#### Literary Devices
The primary and most impactful literary device employed in Isaiah 31:4 is a powerful **Simile**, explicitly comparing the LORD's protective action to that of a lion. The introductory phrase "Like as the lion...so shall the LORD" clearly establishes this comparison, drawing on the universally recognized attributes of a lion—strength, ferocity, territoriality, and an unyielding defense of its prey—to describe God's character and commitment. This simile is further enhanced by vivid **Imagery**, painting a compelling picture of a roaring lion standing firm and unperturbed against a "multitude of shepherds," allowing the reader to visualize the overwhelming power and fearlessness of God. The parallel use of "the lion and the young lion" also employs **Merism**, encompassing the full range of leonine power and vitality. Furthermore, there is a subtle element of **Anthropomorphism**, as God is described with human-like attributes of fighting and "coming down," though this serves to emphasize His active, personal intervention rather than a literal human form. Finally, the phrase "Mount Zion, and for the hill thereof" utilizes **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy**, where the specific geographical location (Mount Zion, the temple hill) represents the entire city of Jerusalem and, by extension, God's chosen people and His dwelling place, signifying the comprehensive nature of His protection.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 31:4 profoundly articulates the biblical truth of God's active, fierce, and unwavering protection of His people. It underscores that divine security is never contingent on human strength, political maneuvering, or military might, but solely on the sovereign power and unshakeable commitment of the "LORD of hosts." This passage serves as a timeless reminder that when faced with overwhelming odds, whether personal or national, the believer's ultimate refuge and defense are found exclusively in God alone, who is neither intimidated nor swayed by the clamor, threats, or numerical superiority of adversaries. His protective presence is a formidable shield, assuring His people that He will personally intervene and fight on their behalf, demonstrating His absolute faithfulness to His covenant promises.

* [Exodus 14:14](/exodus/14-14 "The LORD will fight for you")
* [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "God is our refuge and strength")
* [Deuteronomy 32:11](/deuteronomy/32-11 "God's care like an eagle")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 31:4 offers profound comfort and a challenging call to faithful living for believers today. In a world often characterized by instability, pervasive threats, and the seductive allure of human solutions, this verse compels us to critically re-evaluate where we place our ultimate trust. Just as Judah was tempted to rely on the formidable chariots and cavalry of Egypt, we too can be prone to seeking security and deliverance in financial stability, political systems, personal achievements, influential connections, or even our own perceived strength and wisdom. However, this passage powerfully reminds us that our true, unshakeable, and invincible defense comes solely from the sovereign "LORD of hosts," who is infinitely more formidable than any opposition we might ever face. When anxieties mount, when adversaries seem overwhelming, or when the "noise" and clamor of the world threaten to "abase" our spirit and diminish our faith, we are invited to remember the lion-like resolve of our God. He is not intimidated by the magnitude of our challenges, nor will He retreat from His covenant commitment to protect, sustain, and deliver those who trust in Him. This truth should inspire us to relinquish our anxieties, abandon self-reliant strategies, and confidently rest in His powerful and unwavering care, knowing with certainty that He will fight for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life are you currently tempted to rely on human strength, worldly resources, or external alliances rather than God's unfailing protection?**
* **How does the vivid imagery of God as a roaring lion fiercely defending His prey challenge or deepen your understanding of His character and His active involvement in your life?**
* **What "noise" or "multitude of shepherds" (e.g., fears, criticisms, overwhelming circumstances) in your life currently feels intimidating, and how can you practically apply the truth of God's unyielding defense to that situation?**
* **What practical steps can you commit to taking this week to deepen your trust in the "LORD of hosts" and His powerful commitment to fight for you?**

### FAQ
**Why does God compare Himself to a lion in this verse?**

Answer: God compares Himself to a lion in [Isaiah 31:4](/isaiah/31-4 "The LORD as a Lion Protecting Zion") to convey several powerful and essential attributes of His character and actions. In the ancient Near East, the lion was a universally recognized symbol of immense strength, royalty, ferocity, and an unyielding protective instinct over its territory and prey. By employing this simile, God emphasizes His absolute power, His sovereign authority, and His fierce, unwavering commitment to defend His people and His holy city, Mount Zion. Just as a lion fiercely guards its prey, unperturbed by any opposition, so too will the [LORD of hosts](/isaiah/31-4 "The LORD of hosts fighting for Zion") stand firm and fight for Jerusalem, undeterred by the "noise" or strength of its enemies. This vivid imagery assures Judah of God's invincible resolve and His complete disregard for the threats of human armies, no matter how numerous or powerful.

**What does the title "LORD of hosts" signify?**

Answer: The title "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: _Yahweh Sabaoth_) is a profound and frequently used divine title in the Old Testament, particularly prominent in prophetic books like Isaiah. The term "hosts" (`tsâbâʼ`) can refer to various organized masses: heavenly armies (angels), celestial bodies (stars), or earthly armies. When applied to God, it signifies His supreme authority and sovereignty as the divine Commander who commands all these "hosts." It portrays Him as the ultimate Warrior, the mighty General who possesses limitless power and commands all the forces of heaven and earth. In the context of [Isaiah 31:4](/isaiah/31-4 "The LORD of hosts fighting for Zion"), this title underscores God's limitless power and His ability to intervene decisively and victoriously in human affairs, demonstrating that no earthly army or alliance, no matter how formidable, can stand against Him. It reinforces the central message that He alone is the true source of security, strength, and ultimate victory for His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 31:4, with its vivid portrayal of God as a fierce, unyielding protector, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is revealed in the New Testament as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" ([Revelation 5:5](/revelation/5-5 "The Lion of the tribe of Judah")), embodying the very strength, sovereignty, and protective power attributed to the LORD in this prophecy. Just as the LORD promised to come down and fight for Mount Zion, Jesus Himself "came down" from heaven (John 6:38) to fight for the true, spiritual Zion—His Church, composed of all who believe. His life, atoning death on the cross, and glorious resurrection constituted the decisive battle, where He triumphed definitively over the ultimate enemies of humanity: sin, death, and the powers of darkness ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Triumph over powers and authorities")). He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "The Good Shepherd")), fiercely protecting them from spiritual predators and securing their eternal salvation. Furthermore, His promised return will be as the conquering King, establishing His eternal kingdom and bringing final, unassailable victory to His people ([Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "The Rider on the White Horse")). Thus, the promise of divine, unwavering protection against all adversaries, so powerfully depicted in Isaiah, is fully realized and eternally secured in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who continues to be the ultimate defender, refuge, and hope for all who trust in Him.

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

Amos 3:8

The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?

Hosea 11:10

They shall walk after the LORD: he shall roar like a lion: when he shall roar, then the children shall tremble from the west.

Zechariah 2:5

For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her.

Isaiah 42:13

¶ The LORD shall go forth as a mighty man, he shall stir up jealousy like a man of war: he shall cry, yea, roar; he shall prevail against his enemies.

Zechariah 12:8

In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David [shall be] as God, as the angel of the LORD before them.

Zechariah 14:3

Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.

Revelation 5:5

And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.