Isaiah 19:7

The bulrushes by the Nile, by the mouth of the river, and all the fields sown along the Nile, will wither, blow away, and be no more.

Study Bible

The bulrushes by the Nile
The bulrushes, or reeds, are plants commonly found along the banks of the Nile River. In ancient Egypt, these plants were vital for making papyrus, a material used for writing. The mention of bulrushes highlights the dependency of Egypt on the Nile for its economic and cultural activities. The imagery of bulrushes also evokes the story of Moses, who was hidden among the reeds of the Nile (Exodus 2:3). This connection underscores the historical significance of the Nile in biblical narratives and its role in God's deliverance of His people.

by the mouth of the river
The mouth of the river refers to the delta region where the Nile flows into the Mediterranean Sea. This area was fertile and crucial for agriculture, supporting the prosperity of ancient Egypt. The phrase indicates a geographical location that was essential for trade and sustenance. The prophecy of desolation here suggests a reversal of fortune, where the very source of Egypt's strength becomes a symbol of its downfall.

and all the fields sown along the Nile
The fields sown along the Nile were the backbone of Egypt's agricultural economy. The annual flooding of the Nile deposited nutrient-rich silt, making the land extremely fertile. This abundance allowed Egypt to become a powerful nation. The prophecy of these fields withering signifies a divine judgment that disrupts the natural order and prosperity that Egypt relied upon. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to alter the course of nations.

will wither, blow away, and be no more
The imagery of withering and blowing away conveys total desolation and loss. This prophecy foretells a time when Egypt's agricultural wealth will vanish, leading to economic and social collapse. The language echoes other biblical prophecies of judgment, such as those found in Isaiah 40:7-8, where human achievements are compared to grass that withers. This serves as a warning of the impermanence of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God. The phrase also foreshadows the eschatological themes of renewal and restoration found in the broader narrative of Scripture, pointing to a future where God's kingdom will be established in fullness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Nile River
A major river in Egypt, central to the nation's agriculture and economy. It is often seen as a symbol of life and sustenance for the Egyptian people.

2. Bulrushes
Plants that grow along the banks of the Nile. They are symbolic of the fertility and life that the river provides.

3. Egypt
A nation historically significant in the Bible, often representing worldly power and reliance on human strength rather than God.

4. Isaiah
A prophet in the Old Testament who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel and surrounding nations, including prophecies of judgment and redemption.

5. Judgment
The event described in this verse is part of a prophecy of judgment against Egypt, indicating a time when their reliance on the Nile will fail them.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God, Not Resources
The drying up of the Nile symbolizes the futility of relying on worldly resources. Believers are reminded to place their trust in God, who is the ultimate provider.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This prophecy highlights God's control over all nations and natural resources. It serves as a reminder that no nation is beyond God's reach or judgment.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Egypt's reliance on the Nile can be seen as a form of idolatry. Christians are encouraged to examine their lives for anything they might be placing above God.

The Certainty of God's Word
The fulfillment of prophecies like this one assures believers of the reliability and truth of God's Word. It encourages faith and trust in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the drying up of the Nile in Isaiah 19:7 serve as a metaphor for spiritual dryness in our lives when we rely on things other than God?

2. In what ways can we identify "Niles" in our own lives—things we depend on more than God—and how can we shift our reliance back to Him?

3. How does the prophecy against Egypt in Isaiah 19:7 reflect God's sovereignty and justice, and how should this influence our view of current world events?

4. What lessons can we learn from the repeated biblical theme of God judging nations that rely on their own strength rather than on Him?

5. How can we apply the message of Isaiah 19:7 to our personal lives, especially in times of uncertainty or when facing challenges that seem insurmountable?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7:19-21
This passage describes the first plague in Egypt, where the Nile turned to blood, showing God's power over Egypt's primary source of life.

Ezekiel 29:9-10
This prophecy also speaks of the desolation of Egypt and the drying up of the Nile, reinforcing the theme of God's judgment on Egypt.

Revelation 16:12
This verse speaks of the drying up of the Euphrates River, symbolizing preparation for God's final judgment, similar to the judgment on Egypt.