Isaiah 22:17

Behold, the LORD will carry thee away with a mighty captivity, and will surely cover thee.

Behold, the LORD {H3068} will carry thee away {H2904} with a mighty {H1397} captivity {H2925}, and will surely {H5844} cover {H5844} thee.

Look, strong man! ADONAI is about to throw you out! He will grab you,

Look, O mighty man! The LORD is about to shake you violently. He will take hold of you,

Behold, Jehovah, like a strong man, will hurl thee away violently; yea, he will wrap thee up closely.

Commentary

Context

Isaiah 22:17 is part of a prophetic oracle, often referred to as "The Burden of the Valley of Vision," which primarily concerns Jerusalem and its inhabitants. In this chapter, God's judgment is pronounced against the people for their revelry and lack of repentance in the face of impending doom. Specifically, this verse targets a prominent individual named Shebna, who was the palace steward (or treasurer) during the reign of King Hezekiah. Shebna is condemned for his pride, self-aggrandizement (building an elaborate tomb for himself), and misuse of his powerful position. The pronouncement in verse 17, and the subsequent verses, detail his sudden and humiliating downfall, contrasting sharply with the promotion of Eliakim who would take his place (see Isaiah 22:20-25).

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment and Sovereignty: This verse powerfully illustrates God's absolute control over human affairs, even over powerful political figures. Shebna's fate is not a matter of chance but a direct decree from the LORD, demonstrating that God is the ultimate authority who brings down the proud.
  • Consequences of Pride and Self-Reliance: Shebna's sin was largely rooted in his arrogance and pursuit of personal glory rather than faithful service to God and his people. The "mighty captivity" and being "covered" signify a humiliating and inescapable end for those who elevate themselves. This serves as a strong warning against the dangers of pride (Proverbs 16:18).
  • Humiliation and Disgrace: The phrase "surely cover thee" implies a profound sense of shame and disgrace. It suggests being wrapped up and carried away, perhaps like a corpse or a prisoner, stripping Shebna of his dignity and status. His grand tomb plans would be rendered useless.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "carry away" (ื’ึธึผืœึธื”, galah) often refers to exile or deportation, emphasizing a forceful removal from one's home and position. The term "mighty captivity" (ื’ึถึผื‘ึถืจ, gever, meaning "strong man" or "might") underscores the overwhelming and inescapable nature of this judgment; it's not a gentle leading but a powerful, decisive expulsion orchestrated by God Himself. The phrase "surely cover thee" (ื™ึทืขึทื˜ึฐืšึธ, ya'atekha) means to wrap, cloak, or enshroud. In this context, it vividly conveys the idea of being covered with shame, humiliation, or even a burial shroud, symbolizing the utter disgrace and finality of his removal from power and public life.

Practical Application

Isaiah 22:17 serves as a timeless reminder about the nature of true leadership and the perils of pride. It calls us to:

  • Embrace Humility: Positions of influence, whether in government, business, or the church, come with great responsibility and accountability to God. Leaders, and indeed all believers, are called to serve with humility rather than seeking personal aggrandizement (James 4:6).
  • Recognize Divine Sovereignty: This verse reinforces the truth that God is ultimately in control of all things, even the rise and fall of nations and individuals. Our trust should be placed in Him, not in human power or self-reliance.
  • Understand Consequences: Actions have consequences. Shebna's story illustrates that God sees and judges arrogance and misuse of power, providing a sobering caution against unrighteous living.
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Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 14:3 (3 votes)

    And their nobles have sent their little ones to the waters: they came to the pits, [and] found no water; they returned with their vessels empty; they were ashamed and confounded, and covered their heads.

  • Esther 7:8 (2 votes)

    Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther [was]. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face.

  • Job 9:24 (2 votes)

    The earth is given into the hand of the wicked: he covereth the faces of the judges thereof; if not, where, [and] who [is] he?