Isaiah 15:1

This is the burden against Moab: Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Kir in Moab is devastated, destroyed in a night!

Study Bible

This is the burden against Moab:
The term "burden" refers to a prophetic oracle or message of judgment. Moab, a nation descended from Lot, often had a tumultuous relationship with Israel. This prophecy indicates a divine pronouncement against Moab, highlighting the seriousness of their impending judgment. Moab's history of idolatry and opposition to Israel sets the stage for this declaration.

Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night!
Ar was a significant city in Moab, often considered a central hub. The sudden destruction "in a night" emphasizes the swift and unexpected nature of the judgment. This phrase underscores the vulnerability of human establishments against divine intervention. The immediacy of the destruction serves as a warning of the certainty and speed of God's judgment.

Kir in Moab is devastated, destroyed in a night!
Kir, another important city in Moab, is similarly described as being devastated overnight. The repetition of the phrase "destroyed in a night" for both cities highlights the totality and simultaneity of the destruction. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's judgment, leaving no place of refuge. The mention of both cities signifies the widespread impact on the nation of Moab, indicating that no part of the land would be spared.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
An ancient kingdom located east of the Dead Sea, often in conflict with Israel. The Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew.

2. Ar in Moab
A significant city in Moab, representing the strength and pride of the Moabite nation.

3. Kir in Moab
Another important city in Moab, indicating the widespread devastation across the nation.

4. Isaiah
The prophet who delivered this oracle, serving as God's messenger to communicate His judgment.

5. Oracle
A divine message or prophecy, often concerning judgment or future events.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's pronouncements through His prophets are sure and will come to pass. The sudden destruction of Moab's cities serves as a reminder of the certainty and swiftness of divine judgment.

The Consequences of Pride and Sin
Moab's downfall is a result of its pride and opposition to God's people. This serves as a warning against pride and rebellion against God.

The Sovereignty of God Over Nations
God is sovereign over all nations, not just Israel. His plans and purposes extend beyond His chosen people, affecting all of creation.

The Importance of Repentance
While the prophecy is one of destruction, it implicitly calls for repentance. Recognizing God's judgment should lead to a heart of repentance and turning back to Him.

The Role of Prophecy in Scripture
Prophecy serves to reveal God's character, His justice, and His mercy. It encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and His righteous governance of the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical relationship between Moab and Israel provide context for understanding Isaiah 15:1?

2. In what ways does the sudden destruction of Moab's cities illustrate the nature of God's judgment?

3. How can the prophecy against Moab serve as a warning to modern nations and individuals regarding pride and rebellion?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty over all nations, and how should this influence our worldview?

5. How can we apply the lessons of repentance and humility from this passage to our personal lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 19
Provides the background of Moab's origins, tracing back to Lot and his daughters, which sets the stage for the complex relationship between Moab and Israel.

Jeremiah 48
Offers a parallel prophecy against Moab, emphasizing the consistency of God's judgment across different prophetic books.

Numbers 22-24
Describes the interaction between Moab and Israel during the time of Balaam, highlighting the longstanding tension and spiritual conflict.

Psalm 60:8
Mentions Moab as a "washbasin," symbolizing subjugation and judgment, reinforcing the theme of Moab's downfall.