Isaiah 46
Berean Study Bible

Babylon’s Idols

Bel crouches; Nebo cowers.
Bel and Nebo were prominent deities in the Babylonian pantheon. Bel, also known as Marduk, was the chief god of Babylon, while Nebo was the god of wisdom and writing. The imagery of these gods crouching and cowering suggests their powerlessness and impending defeat. This reflects the biblical theme of the futility of idolatry, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 115:4-8, which contrasts the living God with lifeless idols. Historically, the fall of Babylon to the Medes and Persians in 539 BC marked the decline of these deities' influence, fulfilling prophecies of Babylon's downfall.

Their idols weigh down beasts and cattle.
The idols of Bel and Nebo, often made of heavy materials like gold and silver, were physically burdensome. This phrase highlights the irony of gods who are supposed to provide strength and support but instead become a literal burden. In contrast, the God of Israel is depicted as one who carries His people (Isaiah 46:3-4). The imagery of idols being a burden is a critique of the futility and impotence of false gods, as they require human effort to be moved and maintained.

The images you carry are burdensome,
This phrase emphasizes the human effort involved in maintaining idol worship. Unlike the God of Israel, who sustains and carries His people, these idols require human intervention. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual burden of idolatry, which leads to weariness and spiritual exhaustion. The New Testament echoes this theme, as Jesus invites the weary to find rest in Him (Matthew 11:28-30), contrasting the burdensome nature of false worship with the rest found in Christ.

a load to the weary animal.
The imagery of animals struggling under the weight of idols underscores the futility and absurdity of idol worship. It serves as a vivid picture of the spiritual and physical toll that idolatry takes on its adherents. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers to bear the burdens of humanity, as opposed to the idols that add to them. The weariness of the animals symbolizes the weariness of those who rely on anything other than the true God for salvation and support.

The gods cower;
This phrase highlights the impotence of the Babylonian gods, such as Bel and Nebo, who were prominent deities in Babylonian culture. In the context of Isaiah, these gods are depicted as powerless and unable to protect their people. This imagery contrasts with the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel, who is not subject to human limitations. The cowering of the gods symbolizes the failure of idolatry and the futility of relying on false gods. This theme is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 115:4-8, which describes idols as having mouths but not speaking, and ears but not hearing.

they crouch together,
The image of the gods crouching together suggests a sense of fear and helplessness. In ancient Near Eastern culture, gods were often depicted as mighty and invincible, yet here they are shown as weak and vulnerable. This collective crouching may also imply that these gods, despite their supposed power, are unable to stand against the true God. The unity in their posture of defeat underscores their shared impotence. This can be seen as a prophetic declaration of the fall of Babylon, as foretold in Isaiah 47.

unable to relieve the burden;
The burden refers to the idols themselves, which were often physically carried by their worshipers during processions or when being moved. This phrase emphasizes the irony that these gods, who are supposed to provide relief and support, are instead burdensome to their followers. This is a direct challenge to the belief that these deities could offer any real help or salvation. The concept of burdensome idols is also found in Jeremiah 10:5, where idols are described as being carried because they cannot walk.

but they themselves go into captivity.
This final phrase prophesies the eventual downfall and captivity of Babylon, including its gods. Historically, when Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians, its idols were taken as spoils of war, symbolizing their defeat and the triumph of the God of Israel. This captivity of the gods serves as a metaphor for the captivity of the people who trusted in them. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over all false systems of worship, as seen in Revelation 18, which describes the fall of Babylon the Great.

Listen to Me, O house of Jacob
This phrase calls for the attention of the Israelites, descendants of Jacob, emphasizing the importance of the message. The term "house of Jacob" is often used to refer to the entire nation of Israel, highlighting their shared ancestry and covenant relationship with God. This call to listen is a common prophetic device, urging the people to heed God's words, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one."

all the remnant of the house of Israel
The "remnant" refers to the portion of Israel that remains faithful or survives after judgment or calamity. This concept is significant throughout the prophetic books, where God promises to preserve a faithful group despite widespread unfaithfulness. The idea of a remnant is also seen in Romans 11:5, where Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, indicating God's ongoing plan for His people.

who have been sustained from the womb
This phrase underscores God's providential care and faithfulness from the very beginning of Israel's existence. The imagery of being sustained from the womb suggests a nurturing, parental relationship, similar to God's care for individuals like Jeremiah, who was known by God before birth (Jeremiah 1:5). It highlights God's intimate involvement in the life of His people.

carried along since birth
The metaphor of being "carried" suggests protection and guidance, akin to a parent carrying a child. This imagery is consistent with God's actions throughout Israel's history, such as leading them out of Egypt and through the wilderness (Deuteronomy 1:31). It also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who carries the burdens of humanity (Matthew 11:28-30), fulfilling the ultimate role of the divine shepherd and caretaker.

Even to your old age, I will be the same
This phrase emphasizes God's unchanging nature and eternal faithfulness. In a world where everything changes, God remains constant. This is consistent with other scriptures such as Malachi 3:6, "For I the Lord do not change," and Hebrews 13:8, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." The assurance of God's unchanging nature provides comfort and stability to believers, especially as they face the uncertainties of aging and life's transitions.

and I will bear you up when you turn gray
Here, God promises His continued support and care throughout the entirety of one's life, even into old age. This reflects the cultural context of ancient Israel, where old age was often associated with wisdom but also vulnerability. The imagery of God bearing His people is reminiscent of Deuteronomy 1:31, where God is described as carrying Israel as a father carries his son. This conveys a deep sense of personal care and protection.

I have made you, and I will carry you
This phrase underscores God's role as Creator and Sustainer. The act of creation implies a responsibility and commitment to the created. In Isaiah 44:24, God declares, "I am the Lord, who made all things." The promise to carry His people suggests a nurturing relationship, akin to a shepherd with his sheep, as seen in Psalm 23. It also reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God is both the origin and the sustainer of His people.

I will sustain you and deliver you
God's promise to sustain and deliver His people highlights His role as both provider and savior. This is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, where God delivers His people from physical and spiritual dangers. The historical context of Isaiah includes the Babylonian exile, where God's deliverance was a central hope for the Israelites. This promise also points forward to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who provides salvation from sin and eternal life, as seen in passages like John 3:16 and Romans 8:2.

To whom will you liken Me or count Me equal?
This phrase emphasizes the uniqueness and incomparability of God. In the context of Isaiah, the Israelites were surrounded by nations that worshiped multiple gods, often represented by idols. The rhetorical question highlights the futility of comparing the one true God to these man-made deities. Historically, the Israelites were tempted to adopt the idolatrous practices of their neighbors, such as the Babylonians, who had a pantheon of gods. This question challenges the people to recognize that no idol or false god can match the power, wisdom, and holiness of the Lord. Theologically, this points to the monotheistic nature of God, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one."

To whom will you compare Me, that we should be alike?
This phrase further underscores the distinctiveness of God. The repetition of the question serves to reinforce the message that God is beyond comparison. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, gods were often depicted in human or animal forms, and their powers were limited to specific domains. In contrast, the God of Israel is portrayed as sovereign over all creation, as seen in Isaiah 40:25-26, where God is described as the creator of the stars. This also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who is described in Colossians 1:15-17 as the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, further affirming the unparalleled nature of God.

They pour out their bags of gold
This phrase highlights the wealth and resources that people are willing to expend in the pursuit of idolatry. In the ancient Near East, gold was a symbol of wealth and power, often used in the creation of idols. The act of pouring out gold suggests a lavish and deliberate investment in something that is ultimately futile. This reflects the human tendency to prioritize material wealth over spiritual truth, a theme echoed in Matthew 6:19-21, where Jesus warns against storing up treasures on earth.

and weigh out silver on scales;
The use of scales to weigh silver indicates a meticulous and calculated approach to idol-making. Silver, like gold, was a precious metal, and its use in idol creation underscores the value placed on these false gods. This practice can be seen as a form of misplaced devotion, where precision and care are given to something that cannot offer true salvation or guidance. The imagery of weighing silver also connects to the biblical theme of justice and righteousness, as seen in Proverbs 16:11, where honest scales are associated with the Lord's standards.

they hire a goldsmith to fashion it into a god,
The hiring of a goldsmith signifies the human effort and craftsmanship involved in creating idols. This reflects the cultural practices of ancient societies, where skilled artisans were employed to craft religious icons. The irony here is that a god, which should be the creator, is instead created by human hands. This is a direct challenge to the sovereignty of the true God, as seen in Isaiah 44:9-20, where the futility of idol-making is mocked. The goldsmith's role also contrasts with the divine creation narrative in Genesis, where God alone is the creator.

so they can bow down and worship.
The ultimate purpose of creating these idols is worship, revealing the deep-seated human need for something to revere. However, this worship is misplaced, as it is directed towards lifeless objects rather than the living God. This act of bowing down is a physical expression of submission and reverence, yet it is tragically directed towards something powerless. The futility of idol worship is a recurring theme in the Bible, as seen in Psalm 115:4-8, where idols are described as having mouths but not speaking, eyes but not seeing. This phrase serves as a reminder of the first commandment in Exodus 20:3, which calls for exclusive worship of the one true God.

They lift it to their shoulder and carry it along;
This phrase highlights the futility of idol worship, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Babylon, where people would create physical representations of their gods. These idols, often made of wood or metal, had to be physically transported by their worshippers, indicating their powerlessness. This contrasts with the God of Israel, who is omnipresent and does not require human effort to be moved or carried. The act of lifting and carrying emphasizes the burden and labor involved in idol worship, which is ultimately fruitless.

they set it in its place, and there it stands,
Once the idol is placed, it remains stationary, unable to move or act on its own. This immobility underscores the impotence of idols compared to the living God, who is active and sovereign. In the cultural context, setting an idol in a temple or shrine was meant to establish its presence and authority, yet the irony is that it is entirely dependent on human action. This can be contrasted with passages like 1 Kings 8:27, where Solomon acknowledges that God cannot be contained by a physical space.

not budging from that spot.
The idol's inability to move signifies its lack of life and power. This immobility serves as a metaphor for the spiritual stagnation that results from idol worship. In contrast, the God of Israel is depicted throughout scripture as dynamic and involved in the lives of His people, guiding and delivering them. This phrase also reflects the prophetic critique of idolatry found in other parts of Isaiah, such as Isaiah 44:9-20, where the absurdity of idol-making is mocked.

They cry out to it, but it does not answer;
The futility of seeking help from idols is evident as they cannot respond to the cries of their worshippers. This highlights the contrast between the living God, who hears and answers prayers (Psalm 34:17), and lifeless idols. The inability of idols to respond is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, emphasizing the unique relationship between God and His people, where communication is possible and effective.

it saves no one from his troubles.
Idols are powerless to deliver or save, a central theme in the prophetic literature. This phrase underscores the ultimate failure of relying on anything other than God for salvation and deliverance. The historical context of Israel, often tempted to turn to idols or foreign alliances for security, serves as a backdrop for this message. The promise of salvation is a key aspect of God's covenant with Israel, fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Savior (Matthew 1:21).

Remember this
This phrase calls for reflection and recollection, urging the audience to recall the truths and acts of God. In the context of Isaiah, it is a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. The Israelites are encouraged to remember God's past deliverance, such as the Exodus, which serves as a foundation for trust in His future promises. This call to remembrance is a common biblical theme, seen in passages like Deuteronomy 8:2, where remembering God's works is linked to obedience and faith.

and be brave;
The call to bravery is an exhortation to stand firm in faith despite challenges. In the historical context, the Israelites faced threats from powerful empires like Babylon. Courage is rooted in trust in God's power and promises, as seen in Joshua 1:9, where God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous because the Lord is with him. This bravery is not self-derived but is a result of reliance on God's strength.

take it to heart,
This phrase emphasizes internalization and personal application of the message. It is not enough to merely remember; the truth must penetrate the heart, leading to transformation. Biblically, the heart is the center of will and emotion, as seen in Proverbs 4:23, which advises guarding the heart as it determines the course of life. This internalization is crucial for genuine repentance and change.

you transgressors!
Addressing the audience as transgressors highlights their sin and need for repentance. In Isaiah's time, Israel's idolatry and disobedience were rampant, leading to their exile. This term underscores the seriousness of their rebellion against God. The call to remember and be brave is directed at those who have strayed, urging them to return to God. This theme of calling sinners to repentance is echoed in the New Testament, such as in Romans 3:23, which states that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, pointing to the universal need for redemption through Christ.

Remember what happened long ago
This phrase calls the audience to recall the historical acts of God, particularly His deliverance of Israel from Egypt and His faithfulness throughout their history. It emphasizes the importance of memory in faith, urging believers to reflect on God's past actions as a foundation for trust. The call to remember is a common biblical theme, seen in passages like Deuteronomy 8:2, where Israel is reminded of their wilderness journey. This remembrance serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

for I am God, and there is no other
This declaration asserts the monotheistic belief central to the faith, distinguishing the God of Israel from the idols of surrounding nations. It reflects the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, affirming the uniqueness and supremacy of God. In the context of Isaiah, this statement challenges the Babylonian gods, asserting that Yahweh alone is the true God. Historically, this was a counter-cultural claim in a polytheistic world, reinforcing the distinct identity of Israel's faith.

I am God, and there is none like Me
This phrase underscores God's incomparability and uniqueness. It highlights His attributes of omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence, which set Him apart from all other beings. The assertion is echoed in passages like Exodus 15:11 and Psalm 86:8, which celebrate God's unparalleled nature. Theologically, it points to the concept of God's holiness and otherness, inviting believers to worship Him with reverence and awe. This also foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God, as seen in Colossians 2:9.

I declare the end from the beginning
This phrase emphasizes God's omniscience and sovereignty. In the biblical context, it highlights God's ability to know and determine the course of history from its inception to its conclusion. This is a unique attribute of God, distinguishing Him from idols and false gods, which are powerless and lack foresight. The declaration of the end from the beginning is a testament to God's eternal nature, as seen in Revelation 1:8, where He is described as the Alpha and Omega. This also connects to the prophetic nature of Scripture, where God reveals His plans and purposes through His prophets, as seen in Amos 3:7.

and from ancient times what is still to come
This phrase underscores God's timelessness and His control over future events. The reference to "ancient times" suggests that God's plans have been established long before human history unfolded. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's eternal covenant and promises, such as those made to Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3, which have implications for future generations. The phrase also points to the fulfillment of prophecy, as seen in the coming of Christ, who was foretold in the Old Testament (Isaiah 9:6-7) and fulfilled in the New Testament.

I say, ‘My purpose will stand
Here, God's purpose is depicted as unchangeable and steadfast. This reflects the biblical truth that God's will is sovereign and cannot be thwarted by human actions or circumstances. In the historical context, this assurance was given to the Israelites during their captivity, reminding them of God's ultimate plan for their redemption and restoration. This is echoed in Romans 8:28, where Paul speaks of God's purpose working for the good of those who love Him. The phrase also points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection were part of God's eternal purpose.

and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.’
This final phrase highlights God's active role in bringing His plans to fruition. The term "good pleasure" indicates that God's actions are not arbitrary but are rooted in His benevolent and righteous character. This is seen throughout Scripture, where God's actions are aligned with His nature, as in Psalm 115:3, which states that God does whatever pleases Him. The fulfillment of God's good pleasure is ultimately realized in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who accomplished God's plan of salvation, as seen in Ephesians 1:9-10. This assurance of God's accomplishment provides hope and confidence to believers, knowing that God's purposes will prevail.

I summon a bird of prey from the east
This phrase refers to God's sovereign control over nations and leaders. The "bird of prey" symbolizes a swift and powerful conqueror, often interpreted as Cyrus the Great of Persia. Historically, Cyrus came from the east of Babylon, aligning with this imagery. The use of "bird of prey" emphasizes the speed and decisiveness of his conquest. This aligns with God's use of foreign rulers to accomplish His purposes, as seen in other scriptures like Jeremiah 25:9, where Nebuchadnezzar is called God's servant.

a man for My purpose from a far-off land
Cyrus is again the likely reference here, as he was raised by God to fulfill His purpose of liberating the Israelites from Babylonian captivity. This highlights the theme of divine providence, where God uses individuals, regardless of their knowledge of Him, to fulfill His plans. The "far-off land" underscores the distance and unexpected nature of God's chosen instrument, reflecting the idea that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Truly I have spoken, and truly I will bring it to pass
This emphasizes God's faithfulness and the certainty of His word. When God declares something, it is as good as done, reflecting His omnipotence and reliability. This assurance is echoed in Numbers 23:19, where it is stated that God does not lie or change His mind. The fulfillment of prophecy serves as a testament to God's unchanging nature and His control over history.

I have planned it, and I will surely do it
This phrase underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and predestination. God's plans are not thwarted by human actions or circumstances. This is consistent with the biblical narrative that God's purposes are established from eternity (Ephesians 1:11). The certainty of God's plans provides comfort and assurance to believers, knowing that God's will is ultimately for their good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

Listen to Me
This phrase is a divine imperative, emphasizing the importance of heeding God's voice. Throughout the Bible, God calls His people to listen, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel." Listening implies obedience and a willingness to follow God's commands. It is a call to attention, urging the audience to focus on the divine message being delivered.

you stubborn people
The term "stubborn" reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where Israel is often described as obstinate or hard-hearted (Exodus 32:9, Deuteronomy 9:6). This stubbornness is a spiritual condition that prevents them from fully embracing God's will. It highlights the human tendency to resist divine guidance and the need for repentance and transformation.

far removed from righteousness
This phrase indicates a spiritual distance from God's standards and moral law. Righteousness in the biblical context refers to living in accordance with God's will and commands. The people being addressed are not just physically distant but spiritually estranged from the path of righteousness. This separation underscores the need for divine intervention and redemption, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who brings righteousness to those who believe (Romans 3:22).

I am bringing My righteousness near;
This phrase indicates God's active role in delivering His people. The concept of righteousness in the Old Testament often refers to God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Here, it suggests that God is about to act in a way that demonstrates His justice and faithfulness. The nearness of God's righteousness implies urgency and immediacy, reflecting the prophetic assurance that God will intervene in the affairs of His people. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of God's righteousness being revealed through His actions, as seen in passages like Psalm 98:2 and Romans 1:17.

it is not far away,
This emphasizes the imminence of God's intervention. In the historical context, the Israelites were in exile, and the promise of deliverance might have seemed distant. However, God reassures them that His righteous action is close at hand. This phrase serves to comfort the people, reminding them that despite their current circumstances, God's plan is unfolding. It also reflects the prophetic nature of Isaiah's message, which often includes both immediate and future fulfillments.

and My salvation will not be delayed.
Salvation here refers to deliverance from exile and restoration to their homeland. The assurance that it "will not be delayed" underscores God's sovereignty and control over time and history. This promise would have been particularly significant to the exiled Israelites, who longed for freedom and restoration. Theologically, this points to the certainty of God's promises and His ability to accomplish His purposes without hindrance. It also foreshadows the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ, who is often seen as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

I will grant salvation to Zion
Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual and political center of Israel. The promise of salvation to Zion signifies the restoration of the city and its people. This has both immediate implications for the return from Babylonian exile and eschatological implications for the future restoration of God's people. Theologically, Zion is also seen as a type of the Church, and this promise can be understood as God's commitment to the spiritual salvation and ultimate glorification of His people.

and adorn Israel with My splendor.
The imagery of adorning Israel with splendor suggests a transformation from a state of desolation to one of glory and beauty. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God promises to restore and bless His people. Historically, this would have been fulfilled in the return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Prophetically, it points to the future glory of God's people, as seen in passages like Isaiah 60:1-3. This also typifies the ultimate glorification of the Church, adorned with the righteousness of Christ, as described in Revelation 21:2.

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



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