Isaiah 21:15

For they flee from the sword--the sword that is drawn--from the bow that is bent, and from the stress of battle.

Study Bible

For they flee from the sword—
This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and desperation. In the context of Isaiah 21, the prophecy is directed towards the fall of Babylon, but this specific verse is part of an oracle concerning Arabia. The sword represents imminent danger and judgment. Historically, the sword is a common symbol of warfare and divine judgment throughout the Bible, as seen in passages like Ezekiel 21:9-10, where the sword is sharpened for slaughter. The fleeing suggests a people in distress, possibly the Dedanites or other Arabian tribes, who are escaping the impending invasion.

the sword that is drawn—
The drawn sword emphasizes readiness for battle and the immediacy of the threat. In biblical times, a drawn sword was a clear sign of impending conflict. This imagery is used in other scriptures, such as in Numbers 22:23, where Balaam's donkey sees the angel of the Lord with a drawn sword. It signifies that the threat is not just potential but active and present. The drawn sword can also symbolize God's judgment being executed, as seen in 1 Chronicles 21:16.

from the bow that is bent,
The bent bow represents preparation for attack, highlighting the tension and potential for violence. In ancient warfare, the bow was a primary weapon, and a bent bow indicates that it is ready to release its arrow. This imagery is used in Psalm 7:12, where God is depicted as a warrior who prepares His weapons against the wicked. The bow being bent suggests that the threat is not only from close combat but also from a distance, adding to the sense of inescapability.

and from the stress of battle.
The stress of battle conveys the chaos and fear associated with warfare. It reflects the psychological and physical toll on those involved. In the broader biblical narrative, battle often symbolizes spiritual warfare and the struggles faced by God's people. Ephesians 6:12 speaks of the spiritual battle against the forces of evil. The stress of battle here can also be seen as a metaphor for the trials and tribulations faced by believers, reminding them of the need for reliance on God's strength and protection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who authored the book, delivering messages from God to the people of Judah and surrounding nations.

2. Arabia
The region being addressed in this chapter, specifically the tribes of Dedan, Tema, and Kedar.

3. The Sword
Symbolic of impending judgment and warfare, representing the threat from invading forces.

4. The Bow
Another symbol of warfare, indicating the readiness and capability of the enemy.

5. The Stress of Battle
Describes the fear and urgency experienced by those fleeing from conflict.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Judgment
God's warnings through Isaiah remind us that divine judgment is real and inevitable for those who do not turn to Him.

The Urgency of Repentance
The imagery of fleeing from the sword and bow underscores the urgency with which we should approach repentance and turning back to God.

God's Sovereignty in Warfare
The passage illustrates that God is in control of nations and their destinies, using even warfare to accomplish His purposes.

Spiritual Preparedness
Just as the physical battle is imminent for the people in Isaiah's time, believers today must be spiritually prepared for the battles they face.

Trust in God's Protection
While the passage depicts fear and fleeing, believers are reminded to trust in God's protection and provision, as seen in other scriptures.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the sword and bow in Isaiah 21:15 reflect the urgency of God's message to the people of Arabia?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty over nations and events in this passage, and how does this apply to our understanding of current world events?

3. How does the theme of fleeing from battle in Isaiah 21:15 compare to the spiritual battles described in Ephesians 6?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are spiritually prepared for the battles we face, as suggested by the teachings in Isaiah 21:15?

5. How can we find comfort in God's protection amidst the "stress of battle" in our own lives, drawing connections to Psalm 91?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 49
This chapter also speaks of judgment against the Arab tribes, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.

Psalm 91
Offers a contrast by describing God's protection for those who trust in Him, highlighting the difference between those who rely on God and those who face judgment.

Ephesians 6
Discusses the armor of God, providing a spiritual perspective on how believers can stand firm against spiritual battles.