Before the year that the chief commander
This phrase sets the historical context for the events described in Isaiah 20. The "chief commander" refers to a high-ranking military officer in the Assyrian army. The Assyrian Empire was known for its powerful and organized military structure, which played a significant role in its expansion and dominance in the ancient Near East. The mention of a specific military leader highlights the importance of the event and its impact on the surrounding nations.

sent by Sargon king of Assyria
Sargon II was a prominent king of Assyria who reigned from 722 to 705 BC. His reign was marked by military campaigns that expanded Assyrian control over various regions, including parts of the Levant. Sargon's involvement in the events at Ashdod underscores the geopolitical tensions of the time, as Assyria sought to assert its influence over rebellious territories. This historical context is crucial for understanding the broader narrative of Isaiah, which often addresses the threat of Assyrian aggression.

came to Ashdod
Ashdod was one of the major Philistine cities located along the coastal plain of modern-day Israel. It was strategically significant due to its location on trade routes and its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. The city's capture by Assyria would have been a significant blow to the Philistine confederation and a demonstration of Assyrian power. The mention of Ashdod connects this passage to the broader theme of God's judgment on the nations surrounding Israel.

and attacked and captured it
The attack and capture of Ashdod by the Assyrian forces illustrate the fulfillment of prophetic warnings about the consequences of rebellion against God's will. This event serves as a tangible example of the judgment that Isaiah often prophesied against nations that opposed God's purposes. The capture of Ashdod also foreshadows the eventual downfall of other nations that resist divine authority, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty over all earthly powers.

the LORD had already spoken through Isaiah son of Amoz, saying
This phrase establishes the divine authority and prophetic role of Isaiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament. Isaiah, son of Amoz, is recognized for his prophecies concerning both judgment and redemption. The phrase underscores the belief that God communicates His will through chosen prophets. Isaiah's ministry occurred during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by political instability and threats from powerful empires like Assyria. This context is crucial for understanding the urgency and gravity of his messages.

“Go, remove the sackcloth from your waist and the sandals from your feet.”
Sackcloth was traditionally worn as a sign of mourning or repentance, indicating a state of humility or distress. By instructing Isaiah to remove it, God is commanding him to abandon this posture, symbolizing a shift in message or action. The removal of sandals further signifies a state of vulnerability and humility, often associated with holy ground (as seen in Exodus 3:5 with Moses). This act serves as a symbolic gesture, preparing Isaiah to deliver a message of impending judgment against Egypt and Cush, nations that Judah might have been tempted to rely on for security.

And Isaiah did so, walking around naked and barefoot.
Isaiah's obedience in this dramatic act serves as a living prophecy, a visual representation of the humiliation and defeat that would befall Egypt and Cush at the hands of Assyria. Walking naked and barefoot symbolizes the complete subjugation and shame that these nations would experience. This act of prophetic symbolism is consistent with other instances in the Bible where prophets used physical actions to convey God's messages (e.g., Ezekiel 4:1-3). It also prefigures the ultimate humility and suffering of Jesus Christ, who bore the shame of humanity on the cross, fulfilling the role of the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53.

Then the LORD said
This phrase indicates divine communication, emphasizing the authority and direct involvement of God in the events described. Throughout the Bible, when the LORD speaks, it signifies the importance and certainty of the message. This is consistent with the prophetic tradition where God directly instructs His prophets.

“Just as My servant Isaiah has gone naked and barefoot for three years
Isaiah is referred to as "My servant," highlighting his role as a faithful messenger of God. The act of going "naked and barefoot" is symbolic, representing humiliation and vulnerability. In the ancient Near East, such actions were often used as prophetic signs to convey a message. The duration of "three years" suggests a period of completeness and divine timing, often seen in biblical narratives (e.g., Jonah in the belly of the fish for three days).

as a sign and omen
The terms "sign" and "omen" indicate that Isaiah's actions were meant to serve as a prophetic warning. In biblical context, signs are often used by God to communicate His intentions or to confirm His word (e.g., the rainbow as a sign to Noah). An omen, in this context, suggests a forewarning of impending judgment or events.

against Egypt and Cush
Egypt and Cush (modern-day Sudan) were powerful nations during Isaiah's time, often seen as symbols of worldly strength and reliance. Historically, these nations were involved in political alliances and conflicts with Israel and Judah. The prophecy against them signifies God's sovereignty over all nations and serves as a warning against placing trust in human power rather than in God. This aligns with other biblical prophecies where reliance on foreign powers is condemned (e.g., Isaiah 31:1).

so the king of Assyria will lead away the captives of Egypt
This phrase refers to the Assyrian king's conquest and subjugation of Egypt. Historically, Assyria was a dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. The prophecy highlights the futility of relying on Egypt for protection, as Judah was tempted to do. This event is a fulfillment of God's warning against alliances with foreign nations instead of trusting in Him (Isaiah 30:1-3).

and the exiles of Cush
Cush, often associated with the region south of Egypt, corresponds to modern-day Sudan. The inclusion of Cush indicates the broad scope of Assyrian conquest. This reflects the interconnectedness of ancient Near Eastern politics, where the fate of one nation often impacted its neighbors. The mention of Cush emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Assyrian dominance.

young and old alike
This phrase underscores the totality of the Assyrian victory, affecting all demographics within the conquered regions. It highlights the indiscriminate nature of war and exile, where age and status offer no protection. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's protection and guidance.

naked and barefoot
The imagery of captives being led away naked and barefoot signifies utter humiliation and defeat. In ancient times, stripping captives of their clothing was a common practice to degrade and dehumanize them. This vivid picture serves as a warning of the shame and disgrace that come from relying on human alliances rather than divine support.

with bared buttocks
This detail further emphasizes the humiliation and shame experienced by the captives. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, exposing one's buttocks was considered extremely disgraceful. This imagery is intended to convey the depth of Egypt and Cush's humiliation at the hands of Assyria, serving as a cautionary tale for those who place their trust in worldly powers.

to Egypt’s shame
The ultimate result of the Assyrian conquest is the public disgrace of Egypt. This phrase highlights the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's will or seek to lead His people astray. It serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over all nations and the futility of opposing His plans. The shame of Egypt is a testament to the consequences of pride and misplaced trust.

Those who made Cush their hope
This phrase refers to the reliance on Cush, an ancient kingdom located in what is now Sudan. Cush was known for its military strength and wealth, making it an attractive ally for smaller nations. In the biblical context, Israel and Judah often sought alliances with powerful neighbors like Cush to protect themselves from larger empires such as Assyria. This reliance on human power rather than divine guidance is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the futility of trusting in worldly powers over God. The historical context shows that Cush was a significant power during the 8th century BC, often involved in the politics of the Near East.

and Egypt their boast
Egypt, like Cush, was a powerful nation with a rich history and formidable military. The Israelites often looked to Egypt for support against threats from the north, particularly from Assyria. Boasting in Egypt implies a sense of pride and confidence in their alliance, believing that Egypt's strength could save them. However, the Bible frequently warns against such alliances, emphasizing that true security comes from God alone. This is evident in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 31:1, which cautions against relying on Egypt for help. Historically, Egypt was a dominant force in the region, but its power was waning during Isaiah's time, making reliance on it even more precarious.

will be dismayed and ashamed
The outcome of relying on Cush and Egypt is dismay and shame, indicating the failure of these alliances to provide the expected protection and support. This serves as a prophetic warning to the Israelites that their trust in human powers will lead to disappointment. The dismay and shame reflect the broader biblical theme of the consequences of forsaking God for worldly solutions. This phrase also connects to the prophetic nature of Isaiah's ministry, where he often foretold the downfall of nations that opposed God's will. Theologically, this underscores the importance of faith in God rather than in human strength, a principle that resonates throughout the Bible.

And on that day
This phrase indicates a specific time of fulfillment, often used in prophetic literature to denote a future event. In the context of Isaiah, it refers to the time when the prophecy against Egypt and Cush (modern-day Ethiopia) would be realized. This emphasizes the certainty of God's word coming to pass.

the dwellers of this coastland
The "coastland" refers to the regions along the Mediterranean Sea, likely including Philistia and other nearby territories. These areas were often caught between the major powers of Egypt and Assyria, making them vulnerable to political and military upheaval.

will say, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope,
Egypt and Cush were seen as powerful allies capable of providing military support against Assyrian aggression. The phrase highlights the misplaced trust in human power rather than in God. This serves as a warning against relying on worldly alliances instead of divine protection.

those to whom we fled for help and deliverance
Historically, smaller nations often sought refuge and assistance from larger, more powerful neighbors. This reflects the political dynamics of the ancient Near East, where vassal states would seek protection from dominant empires. The failure of Egypt and Cush to provide deliverance underscores the futility of trusting in human strength.

from the king of Assyria!
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant force during Isaiah's time, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. The mention of the Assyrian king underscores the immediate threat faced by the nations and the fear he instilled. This context highlights the geopolitical tension and the need for divine intervention.

How then can we escape?’”
This rhetorical question captures the despair and helplessness of the people when their expected deliverers fail. It serves as a call to recognize the sovereignty of God and the need to place trust in Him alone. The question also echoes the broader biblical theme of seeking salvation and deliverance through God rather than human means.