Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, Arabia refers to the vast desert region inhabited by various nomadic tribes, including the Ishmaelites, Midianites, and other descendants of Abraham through Keturah. The region is often associated with the wilderness and is mentioned in various prophetic writings within the Bible. The prophecies against Arabia primarily focus on divine judgment due to their actions and relationships with Israel and other nations.Isaiah's Prophecy Against Arabia The prophet Isaiah delivers a specific oracle against Arabia in Isaiah 21:13-17. This passage is part of a series of prophecies concerning various nations. Isaiah addresses the "burden against Arabia," highlighting the impending doom that will befall the region. The prophecy speaks of the Dedanites, a tribe within Arabia, who will be forced to seek refuge in the thickets of Arabia due to the threat of war and destruction. Isaiah 21:13-15 states: "This is the burden against Arabia: In the thickets of Arabia you must lodge, O caravans of Dedanites. Bring water for the thirsty, O dwellers of Tema, meet the refugees with food. For they flee from the sword, the sword that is drawn, from the bow that is bent, and from the stress of battle." The prophecy foretells a time of great distress and upheaval, where the inhabitants of Arabia will face the consequences of their actions. The mention of Tema, another Arabian tribe, indicates the widespread impact of the coming judgment. The prophecy concludes with a specific timeframe, stating that within a year, the glory of Kedar, a prominent Arabian tribe, will come to an end (Isaiah 21:16-17). Jeremiah's Reference to Kedar and Hazor The prophet Jeremiah also speaks against Arabian tribes, particularly Kedar and Hazor, in Jeremiah 49:28-33. This prophecy is directed against the nomadic tribes who lived in tents and were known for their wealth in livestock. Jeremiah warns of an invasion by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, who will plunder and destroy these tribes. Jeremiah 49:28-29 declares: "Concerning Kedar and the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon defeated, this is what the LORD says: 'Arise, go up against Kedar, and destroy the people of the East! They will take their tents and their flocks, their tent curtains and all their goods. With their camels they will carry away for themselves a cry of terror to them on every side.'" The prophecy emphasizes the vulnerability of these tribes despite their wealth and nomadic lifestyle. The judgment is portrayed as a divine act, using Babylon as the instrument of God's wrath against those who have opposed His people and purposes. Ezekiel's Mention of Arabia In Ezekiel 27, Arabia is mentioned in the context of the lamentation over Tyre, a major trading city. The Arabian tribes are noted for their trade relations with Tyre, providing lambs, rams, and goats (Ezekiel 27:21). While this passage does not explicitly pronounce judgment, it situates Arabia within the broader narrative of nations that will face consequences for their interactions with Israel and their role in the regional dynamics. Conclusion The prophecies against Arabia in the Bible reflect a broader theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's purposes through the rise and fall of nations. These prophetic messages serve as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over all peoples and the ultimate accountability of nations to His divine will. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 21:13The burden on Arabia. In the forest in Arabia shall you lodge, O you traveling companies of Dedanim. Nave's Topical Index Jeremiah 25:24 Library Isaiah's Prophecies Considered the virginity of Christ's Mother a ... The Greater Prophets. Of the Prophecies of the Birth and Achievements of Christ. Book 9 Footnotes Days of Preparation Book 8 Footnotes From Megiddo to Carchemish, 608-605. The Antiquities of the Jews Circumstances Related of Origen. Letter Liii. To Paulinus. Resources Why, when, and for how long was the apostle Paul in Arabia? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Wahhabism? What is Wahhabi Islam? | GotQuestions.org What is the location of the real Mount Sinai? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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