Isaiah 34:15

There the owl will make her nest; she will lay and hatch her eggs and gather her brood under her shadow. Even there the birds of prey will gather, each with its mate.

Study Bible

There the owl will make her nest
The word "owl" in Hebrew is often associated with creatures of desolation and solitude. In the context of Isaiah 34, which speaks of divine judgment upon the nations, the owl symbolizes the desolation that will come upon the land. The owl making her nest signifies a place that has become uninhabitable for humans, now taken over by creatures of the night. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, leading to spiritual desolation.

lay and hatch her eggs
The process of laying and hatching eggs indicates a cycle of life continuing even in desolation. It suggests that even in judgment, life persists, albeit in a form that is far removed from the intended flourishing of God's creation. This phrase can inspire reflection on the resilience of life and the hope that remains even in the bleakest circumstances, pointing to God's sovereignty over all creation.

and gather her young under her shadow
The image of the owl gathering her young under her shadow evokes a sense of protection and care, even in a desolate environment. This can be seen as a metaphor for God's protective nature, even when His people face judgment. It serves as a reminder that God's love and care are present, even in times of trial and desolation, offering a shadow of refuge for those who seek Him.

there too the falcons will gather
Falcons, known for their keen sight and predatory nature, gathering in this desolate place, further emphasize the theme of judgment. The presence of these birds of prey suggests a land that has been abandoned by humans and is now a domain for creatures that thrive in such conditions. This gathering can be seen as a symbol of the inevitability of divine justice, where the natural order reflects the spiritual state of the land.

each with its mate
The phrase "each with its mate" highlights the natural order and continuity of life, even amidst desolation. It suggests a sense of completeness and fulfillment of purpose, as each creature finds its counterpart. This can be interpreted as a reminder of God's design and order in creation, which persists even when human society falls into chaos. It serves as an encouragement to seek alignment with God's purposes, ensuring that one's life is in harmony with His divine order.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Owl
Symbolic of desolation and uncleanliness in biblical literature, often associated with deserted places.

2. The Falcons
Birds of prey that signify desolation and the presence of death or destruction.

3. The Nest
Represents a place of dwelling or habitation, often used metaphorically for security or desolation depending on context.

4. Edom
The broader context of Isaiah 34 is a prophecy against Edom, representing nations opposed to God.

5. The Wilderness
A place of judgment and desolation, often used in the Bible to signify God's wrath and the absence of His blessing.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Judgment
Isaiah 34:15 illustrates the completeness of God's judgment. The presence of owls and falcons signifies total desolation, reminding us of the seriousness of opposing God.

Symbolism of Birds
In biblical symbolism, birds often represent spiritual truths. Here, they signify the aftermath of divine judgment, urging us to reflect on the consequences of sin.

God's Sovereignty
The prophecy against Edom and the imagery of desolation highlight God's control over nations and history. We are reminded to trust in His ultimate plan and justice.

Contrast with Divine Protection
While Isaiah 34:15 speaks of desolation, other scriptures like Psalm 91:4 offer a contrasting image of protection under God's wings. This encourages us to seek refuge in God rather than face desolation.

Call to Repentance
The desolation described serves as a warning and a call to repentance. It prompts us to examine our lives and align with God's will to avoid spiritual desolation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the owl and falcon in Isaiah 34:15 help us understand the nature of God's judgment?

2. In what ways does the desolation described in Isaiah 34:15 contrast with the protection offered in Psalm 91:4?

3. How can we apply the lessons of divine judgment in Isaiah 34:15 to our personal lives and communities today?

4. What other biblical passages use birds as symbols, and how do they compare to the imagery in Isaiah 34:15?

5. How does understanding the historical context of Edom enhance our interpretation of Isaiah 34:15 and its message for us today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 50:39
This verse also speaks of desolation, where wild animals inhabit the ruins of Babylon, similar to the imagery in Isaiah 34:15.

Revelation 18:2
Describes Babylon the Great as a dwelling place for demons and unclean birds, echoing the theme of desolation and divine judgment.

Psalm 91:4
Contrasts the protective imagery of being under God's wings with the desolation under the wings of the owl in Isaiah 34:15.