Isaiah 21:16

For this is what the Lord says to me: "Within one year, as a hired worker would count it, all the glory of Kedar will be gone.

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord says to me:
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the message, indicating that it is a direct revelation from God to the prophet Isaiah. The authority of the message is underscored by the use of "the Lord," which in the Hebrew text is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God. This introduction is typical of prophetic literature, where the prophet serves as a mouthpiece for God's words.

Within one year,
The specific time frame of "one year" suggests urgency and certainty. In the context of biblical prophecy, time frames are often used to convey the immediacy of God's actions. This particular prophecy is not open-ended but has a clear deadline, emphasizing the reliability and precision of God's word.

as a hired worker would count it,
This phrase implies a precise and exact measurement of time, akin to how a hired worker would meticulously track the days of their contract. It suggests that the fulfillment of this prophecy is as certain and predictable as the end of a laborer's term of service. This reflects the biblical theme of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promises.

all the glory of Kedar will be gone.
Kedar was a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their wealth and military prowess, as well as their trade in livestock and goods. The "glory" of Kedar likely refers to their economic prosperity and military strength. Historically, Kedar was located in the Arabian Desert, and its downfall would have significant implications for the region's power dynamics. This prophecy highlights the transient nature of human glory and power, contrasting it with the eternal nature of God's kingdom. The mention of Kedar also connects to other biblical passages that speak of the judgment of nations, such as in Jeremiah 49:28-33, where Kedar is similarly prophesied against.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who received the message from the Lord. He is a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and salvation of Israel and the nations.

2. The Lord
The sovereign God who communicates His will and judgments through His prophets. In this context, He is the one declaring the impending judgment on Kedar.

3. Kedar
A nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, known for their wealth and military prowess. They are often associated with the Arabian desert and are symbolic of pride and self-reliance.

4. Hired Worker
This term is used to emphasize the precision and certainty of the prophecy. A hired worker would count time meticulously, ensuring that the prophecy is fulfilled exactly as stated.

5. Judgment
The event prophesied by Isaiah, where the glory and strength of Kedar will be diminished within a year.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Word
Just as a hired worker counts time precisely, God's word is sure and will come to pass exactly as He declares. Believers can trust in the reliability of God's promises and warnings.

The Folly of Pride
Kedar's downfall serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance. True security is found in humility and dependence on God.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
This prophecy reminds us that God is in control of all nations and their destinies. He raises up and brings down according to His purposes.

The Urgency of Repentance
With the prophecy's fulfillment set within a year, there is an urgency to respond to God's warnings. Believers should live with a sense of urgency in turning from sin and seeking God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision of the prophecy in Isaiah 21:16 reflect the nature of God's word and promises?

2. In what ways can the downfall of Kedar serve as a warning to individuals and nations today?

3. How does understanding the historical context of Kedar enhance our interpretation of this prophecy?

4. What other biblical examples illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty over nations, and how can these examples encourage us in our current global context?

5. How can we apply the urgency of repentance seen in this prophecy to our personal spiritual lives and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:13
This passage lists the descendants of Ishmael, including Kedar, providing background on the origins of the tribe.

Psalm 120:5
This verse mentions Kedar in the context of distress and longing for peace, highlighting the tribe's historical reputation.

Jeremiah 49:28-33
These verses also prophesy against Kedar, reinforcing the theme of judgment against prideful nations.