Isaiah 21:14

The inhabitants of the land of Tema brought water to him that was thirsty, they prevented with their bread him that fled.

The inhabitants {H3427} of the land {H776} of Tema {H8485} brought {H857} water {H4325} to him {H7125} that was thirsty {H6771}, they prevented {H6923} with their bread {H3899} him that fled {H5074}.

Bring water to the thirsty, you who live in Teima, greet the fugitives with food;

Bring water for the thirsty, O dwellers of Tema; meet the refugees with food.

Unto him that was thirsty they brought water; the inhabitants of the land of Tema did meet the fugitives with their bread.

Commentary

Context of Isaiah 21:14

Isaiah 21 is a chapter of prophetic "burdens" or pronouncements against various nations. Verses 13-17 specifically address "the burden upon Arabia," focusing on the tribes of Dedan, Tema, and Kedar. This section describes the desperate situation of those fleeing from an impending invasion, likely referring to the Assyrian forces that were expanding their empire during Isaiah's time. The prophecy paints a picture of hardship and displacement, highlighting the need for basic necessities like water and food in the harsh desert environment, particularly for those escaping the fall of mighty kingdoms.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Hospitality in Crisis: The verse highlights the unexpected act of compassion by the inhabitants of Tema, an oasis town in northern Arabia. They provided water and bread to those who were thirsty and fleeing, demonstrating an act of kindness in a time of widespread distress. This stands in stark contrast to the general tone of judgment in the surrounding prophecies, showing a moment of grace amidst impending doom.
  • Human Vulnerability: It underscores the fundamental needs of humanity—water and food—especially for those displaced by conflict or hardship. The image of the thirsty and the fugitive evokes a sense of desperation and reliance on the kindness of others for survival in a harsh environment.
  • Divine Observation: Although not explicitly stated as God's command, the recording of this specific act of charity suggests that such deeds are noted, even amidst prophecies of judgment against nations. It subtly points to the importance of caring for the needy and providing aid, a theme prevalent throughout the Scriptures (e.g., Matthew 25:35).

Linguistic Insights

The name "Tema" (Hebrew: Teyma') refers to an important oasis and trade center in ancient Arabia, known for its reliable wells and strategic location. The phrase "prevented with their bread" (Hebrew: qidemu) means they "met them" or "came to meet them" with bread. This implies a proactive and timely provision of sustenance, emphasizing that the aid was not merely passive but an active effort to supply vital necessities to the fleeing people.

Practical Application

Isaiah 21:14 serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of compassion and humanitarian aid, especially towards those who are vulnerable and displaced. In a world often marked by conflict, natural disasters, and various crises, the actions of the Tema inhabitants stand as an example of selflessness and practical love. It challenges believers today to consider how they can provide relief and support to those in need, whether they are refugees, the hungry, or the thirsty, echoing the call to show hospitality to strangers and care for the distressed. This verse encourages us to be instruments of God's provision and compassion in times of scarcity and suffering, reflecting the heart of God for the marginalized.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 25:15 (4 votes)

    Hadar, and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah:

  • Job 6:19 (4 votes)

    The troops of Tema looked, the companies of Sheba waited for them.

  • Proverbs 25:21 (3 votes)

    ¶ If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

  • Romans 12:20 (3 votes)

    Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

  • 1 Chronicles 1:30 (2 votes)

    Mishma, and Dumah, Massa, Hadad, and Tema,

  • Isaiah 16:3 (2 votes)

    Take counsel, execute judgment; make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday; hide the outcasts; bewray not him that wandereth.

  • Isaiah 16:4 (2 votes)

    Let mine outcasts dwell with thee, Moab; be thou a covert to them from the face of the spoiler: for the extortioner is at an end, the spoiler ceaseth, the oppressors are consumed out of the land.