Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Isaiah 34:16
Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.
16. The verse is remarkable in several respects. It seems to be a solemn assurance that the foregoing prediction shall be fulfilled literally and down to the smallest details; and must therefore be addressed to a future generation of readers. This implies a view of the scope and functions of prophecy, which is not that of the older prophets. Further, the expression “book of Jehovah” appears to point to the existence of a prophetic canon; and the opening exhortation presupposes a habit of searching for evidences of the fulfilment of prophecy. All these circumstances would indicate a late date for the composition of this oracle. Some commentators, however, have sought to evade this interpretation by amending the text with the help of the LXX.; reading: “According to their number Jehovah calls them, &c.” But the received text excites no suspicion.
the book of the Lord ] The immediate reference must be to the present prophecy, since there is no other which speaks of the desert creatures that are to possess the land of Edom. But the phrase is too pregnant to be used of a detached oracle; we must therefore conclude that it was destined to be incorporated in a collection of sacred writings.
my mouth his spirit ] The change of person is harsh. Read either “his mouth” or (better) “the mouth of Jehovah” (LXX. has “Jehovah” alone).
Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges
Seek ye out – Lock carefully at the prediction, and its fulfillment. This seems to be addressed to the inhabitants of that land, or to any who might doubt, or be disposed to examine. They were invited to compare the prediction with the fulfillment, and see how literally all would be fulfilled – an examination which may be made now, and the prediction will be seen to have been accomplished with most surprising particularity and accuracy.
The book of the Lord – The book of Yahweh, which he has caused to be written, referring, perhaps, especially to what Isaiah has here recorded; including also what had been uttered by the other prophets in regard to Edom. The main reference is, however, doubtless, to what Isaiah has written; and the invitation is to compare his predictions with the certain and remarkable evidence of the fulfillment. The prophet evidently contemplated the insertion of his prophecy among the sacred books of the Jews, from which those that followed him might judge of the correctness of the prophecy (Noyes). That a collection of the various prophetic books was made, constituting one book or volume, and regarded as the work of inspiration, is well known, and is referred to during the captivity in Babylon by Daniel Isa 9:2. The direction to search that book accords with the command of the Saviour Joh 5:39, and the direction of Nicodemus Joh 7:32, to search the Scriptures.
No one of these shall fail – Not one of these predictions, or these things which have been spoken.
None shall want her mate – That is, none of the things which I have spoken shall want a fulfillment as its companion. The language is here evidently taken from the pairing of animals, and denotes that all that is spoken shall be entirely fulfilled. Some have understood tilts as referring to the wild animals of which he had spoken, and as meaning that in desolate Idumea they should be appropriately paired, and should breed and increase in abundance. But the more natural interpretation is to refer it to the predictions of the prophet, as meaning that no one thing which he had uttered should want a complete fulfillment.
For my mouth – The word my is not in the Hebrew. The Hebrew phrase is ky–py hu’, For the mouth, he hath commanded. The word hu’ stands for He, that is, Yahweh, and the phrase means the same as his mouth, that is, the mouth of God. The Septuagint renders it, For the Lord hath commanded them. Lowth renders it, For the mouth of Jehovah, changing hu’ into yehovah in accordance with five manuscripts and the translation of the Septuagint.
And his spirit – The Spirit of God; that is, Yahweh himself.
Hath gathered them – Will collect, or assemble; that is, the wild beasts spoken of in the previous verses that shall occupy desolate Idumea. It shall be the agency of God that shall bring them up upon the land to occupy it forever.
Fuente: Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible
Isa 34:16
Seek ye out of the Book of the Lord
The Scriptures the Book of the Lord, to be diligently studied
I.
THE HOLY SCRIPTURE IS THE BOOK OF THE LORD.
II. THE SCRIPTURE IS A BOOK TO BE READ; carefully and diligently searched, consulted and sought unto. (T. Watson, D. D.)
The Holy Scripture is the Book of the Lord
1. This Book discovers what no mortal could ever have done, and nowise could be had but by Divine revelation.
2. The perfect holiness of the doctrine.
3. The efficacy of the doctrine in its searching and convincing the conscience (Heb 4:12); converting souls from their most beloved lusts, even when nothing can be expected from the world for such a change Psa 19:7); rejoicing the heart under the deepest distresses (verse 8). This is not from any virtue in the letters or syllables, but from the Spirit, whose instrument it is.
4. The miracles wherewith it has been confirmed.
5. There is an inward sensation of this in the spirits of those that have their senses exercised. (T. Watson, D. D.)
Seeking out of the Book of the Lord
What is presupposed in this seeking out of the Book of the Lord?
1. That man has lost his way, and needs direction to find it.
2. That man is in hazard of being led further and further wrong.
3. That men are slow of heart to understand the mind of God in His Word.
4. That the Book of the Lord has its difficulties which are not to be easily solved.
5. That we need highly to understand it; otherwise we would not be bidden search into it.
6. That we may gain from it by diligent inquiry. (T. Watson, D. D.)
Reasons for searching the Book of the Lord
1. Because the way of salvation is to be found only therein (Joh 5:39).
2. It is the only rule of our faith and lives (Isa 8:20). The lawyer studies his law books, the physician his medical books; and shall not a Christian study the Book of the Lord?
3. The Lord Himself dictated it and gave it us for that very end (2Ti 3:16-17; Rom 15:4).
4. We must be judged by the Scriptures at the great day (Joh 12:48). (T. Watson, D. D.)
The systematic investigation of Christianity
I. UNLESS THE GOSPEL BE MADE THE SUBJECT OF MUCH REFLECTION AND EARNEST INVESTIGATION IT CANNOT BE RIGHTLY UNDERSTOOD. Are those truths which have a reference to the grandest objects in existence so very easily to be comprehended as to require less attention than the ordinary facts and principles which are connected with business or literature?
II. Universally human nature is in a state of moral disorder and rebellion against God; and AS CHRISTIANITY HAS BEEN SENT FROM HEAVEN WITH THE EXPRESS DESIGN OF REMOVING THAT DISORDER AND EFFECTING A RECONCILIATION BETWEEN GOD AND MAN, IT IS INDISPENSABLY REQUISITE THAT ALL SHOULD KNOW IN WHAT IT CONSISTS. (W. Keith)
Reading the Scriptures
I. The Scriptures should be read with A SERIOUS MIND. The argument by which Moses urged the Jews to attend to the laws of God may be applied to Scripture at large–It is not a vain thing: it is your life. When we read our Bible we stand in the presence of God: we are receiving His communications.
II. The Scriptures should be read with EARNEST PRAYER. Divine influence is needful to impress them upon our understandings and hearts.
III. Scripture should be read with PURE INTENTIONS. If any man will do His will, &c. Nothing resists the evidence or dislikes the principles of the Bible but sin.
IV. The Bible should be read with EXPECTATIONS AND DESIRES. We cannot place too much confidence in its authority, or anticipate too much comfort from its influence. All that may be expected from God may be expected from His Word. There He opens His resources and declares His will; there we read what He is, and what He can do, and what He intends to do. To read the Bible and expect nothing from its influence is to reflect dishonour upon it.
V. The Bible should be read with RETENTIVE MEMORIES. It is intended not so much for present entertainment, as for future wisdom and holiness: its contents, therefore, should be stored and classed in the memory, to be drawn forth and applied as the different circumstances of life require. This study of the Scriptures produces incalculable advantages; it will afford–
1. The most valuable instruction.
2. The best impressions. There is an energy in the Bible which no man of feeling can withstand. The words which it contains are spirit and life. Under Divine influence it has counteracted carnal affections and vicious propensities; it has raised mens minds to God: it has filled them with love to mankind. So as Scripture makes men holy it makes them happy. In the midst of trouble they have an unfailing refuge. (Homilist.)
.
The recurrence of the figures of Isa 35:1-10.
Many of the figures in this beautiful prophecy of Israels restoration recur in the course of chaps, 40-66.,– Isa 35:10, for instance, is repeated verbatim in Isa 51:11.(Prof. S. R. Driver, D. D.)
The manifold application of Isa 35:1-10.
Without any change of its essential meaning it may be applied to the restoration of the Jews from Babylon, to the vocation of the Gentiles, to the whole Christian dispensation, to the course of every individual believer, and to the whole blessedness of heaven. The ground of this manifold application is not that the language of the passage is unmeaning or indefinite, but that there is a real and designed analogy between the various changes mentioned which brings them all within the natural scope of the same inspired description. (J. A. Alexander.)
A joyous chapter
This chapter contains thirty-five distinct promises, among them twenty-two shalls–nine shalls of blessing and comfort; eight shalls of deliverance; five shahs of joy. It begins and ends with joy. (E. J. Banks.)
Fuente: Biblical Illustrator Edited by Joseph S. Exell
Verse 16. My mouth – “For the mouth of JEHOVAH”] For hu, five MSS., (three ancient,) read Jehovah, and another is so corrected; so likewise the Septuagint. Two editions have tsivam; and so the Septuagint, Vulgate, and Arabic, with the edition of 1486, and a MS. has kebatsam, with the masculine pronoun instead of the feminine: and so in the next verses it is lahem, instead of lahen, in fourteen MSS., six of them ancient. – L. To see the importance of these various readings, the Hebrew Bible must be consulted.
Fuente: Adam Clarke’s Commentary and Critical Notes on the Bible
Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read; when this judgment is executed, if you peruse this book of holy writ, and particularly this prophecy of mine, you will find that all things shall exactly come to pass as I have told you.
No one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: as I have said, that the vultures should each have their mate, so shall it be; and this prophecy shall be exactly fulfilled, even in its smallest circumstances. His Spirit; my Spirit; such sudden changes of persons being frequent here. And Gods Spirit may be put for his might and power, as it is in many places of Scripture. Hath gathered them; hath brought all these creatures together, as he formerly brought the creatures to Adam and to Noah, by an instinct which he put into them.
Fuente: English Annotations on the Holy Bible by Matthew Poole
16. book of the Lordthevolume in which the various prophecies and other parts of Scripturebegan henceforward to be collected together (Isa 30:8;Dan 9:2).
Seek(so Isa 8:16;Isa 8:20; Joh 5:39;Joh 7:52).
no one . . . failofthese prophecies (Mt 5:18).
none shall want . . .mateimage from pairing of animals mentioned, Isa34:15 (“mate”); no prediction shall want a fulfilmentas its companion. Or rather, “none of these wild animals (justspoken of) shall be wanting: none shall be without its mate” topair and breed with, in desolate Idumea.
my . . . hisSuchchanges of person are frequent in Hebrew poetry.
themthe wild beasts.
Fuente: Jamieson, Fausset and Brown’s Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read,…. Joseph Kimchi interprets this of the book of the law of Moses; which being consulted, it will appear that punishment was threatened to be inflicted on the enemies of God’s people, particularly the Edomites. Jarchi thinks the book of Genesis is intended; in which we may read how every creature, with its mate, at the time of the flood, was gathered to Noah in the ark. Aben Ezra supposes the book of God’s decrees is meant; in which, could it be seen, might be read all the particulars of this prophecy. But it seems best to understand it of this book of the prophecy of Isaiah; which being sought to, and read at the time when these predictions will be fulfilled, it will be easily seen, by comparing events with prophecies, how everything will be exactly accomplished; from whence may be concluded, this book being called the book of the Lord, that it was written by divine inspiration, as all other parts of the Bible are; which is a recommendation of them, and is a reason why they should be constantly applied unto, and diligently read. It may deserve some consideration, whether the book of the Revelation may not be designed; which, at the destruction of Babylon or Rome, will be proper to be looked into afresh, to see the agreement between the prophecies in it, and the then state of things respecting it, when it will be an habitation of devils and unclean birds:
not one of these shall fail: not one of these beasts or birds before mentioned shall be wanting here, or be “deprived” of its prey:
none shall want her mate; the satyr, or vulture, or any other, which will engage their continuance, and by which means there will be a fresh brood of them in succession for after ages:
for my mouth, it hath commanded them; these beasts and birds, to assemble in the above mentioned place:
and his spirit, it hath gathered them; the Spirit of the mouth of the Lord, his power, and his providence; as he gathered all creatures to Adam, to give them names; and to Noah, to be preserved with him in the ark; so, by a secret instinct; will he gather together these creatures, to inhabit the desolate places of Edom or Rome. The Targum is,
“for by his word they shall be gathered, and by his will they shall draw near.”
So Ben Melech interprets it of his will and pleasure.
Fuente: John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible
Whenever any one compared the prophecy with the fulfilment, they would be found to coincide. “Search in the book of Jehovah, and read! Not one of the creatures fails, not one misses the other: for my mouth – it has commanded it; and His breath – it has brought them together. And He has cast the lot for them, and His hand has assigned it ( this land) to them by measure: they will possess it for ever; to generation and generation they will dwell therein.” The phrase is used for entering in a book, inasmuch as what is written there is placed upon the page; and for searching in a book, inasmuch as a person leans over the book when searching in it, and gets the object of his search out of it. The prophet applied the title “The Book of Jehovah” to his collection of the prophecies with which Jehovah had inspired him, and which He had commanded him to write down. Whoever lived to see the time when the judgment should come upon Edom, would have only to look inquiringly into this holy scripture; and if he compared what was predicted there with what had been actually realized, he would find the most exact agreement between them. The creatures named, which loved to frequent the marshes and solitary places, and ruins, would all really make their homes in what had once been Edom. But the satyrs and the llth , which were only the offspring of the popular belief – what of them? They, too, would be there; for in the sense intended by the prophet they were actual devils, which he merely calls by well-known popular names to produce a spectral impression. Edom would really become a rendezvous for all the animals mentioned, as well as for such unearthly spirits as those which he refers to here. The prophet, or rather Jehovah, whose temporary organ he was, still further confirms this by saying, “My mouth hath commanded it, and His breath has brought them (all these creatures) together.” As the first creating word proceeded from the mouth of Jehovah, so also does the word of prophecy, which resembles such a word; and the breath of the mouth of Jehovah, i.e., His Spirit, is the power which accomplishes the fiat of prophecy, as it did that of creation, and moulds all creatures and their history according to the will and counsel of God (Psa 33:6). In the second part of Isa 34:16 the prophet is speaking of Jehovah; whereas in the first Jehovah speaks through him – a variation which vanishes indeed if we read (Olshausen on Job 9:2), or, what would be better, , but which may be sustained by a hundred cases of a similar kind. There is a shadow, as it were, of this change in the , which alternates with in connection with the animals named. The suffix of c hill e qattah (without m appik , as in 1Sa 1:6) refers to the land of Edom. Edom is, as it were, given up by a divine lot, and measured off with a divine measure, to be for ever the horrible abode of beasts and demons such as those described. A prelude of the fulfilment of this swept over the mountainous land of Edom immediately after the destruction of Jerusalem (see Khler on Mal 1:2-5); and it has never risen to its previous state of cultivation again. It swarms with snakes, and the desolate mountain heights and barren table-lands are only inhabited by wild crows and eagles, and great flocks of birds. But the ultimate fulfilment, to which the appeal in Isa 34:16 refers, is still in the future, and will eventually fall upon the abodes of those who spiritually belong to that circle of hostility to Jehovah (Jesus) and His church, of which ancient Edom was merely the centre fixed by the prophet.
Fuente: Keil & Delitzsch Commentary on the Old Testament
Vs. 16-17: A CLOSING AFFIRMATION OF GOD’S PURPOSE
1. The Lord has recorded His plan in His word; no prophecy thereof shall lack its fulfillment; His counsel shall stand, (vs. 16; Isa 30:8; Mal 3:16; Isa 1:20; Isa 40:5; Isa 58:14).
2. As assuredly as He has divided the land of Canaan, by lot, unto His people, so has He appointed Edom to the above-mentioned creatures of the desert, (vs. 17); His word will not fail!
Fuente: Garner-Howes Baptist Commentary
16. Inquire at the book of Jehovah. By “the book of the Lord” some understand this prophecy, as if he had enjoined them to read attentively this prediction; for not even in the minutest point will it fail at the appointed time, as he will afterwards add. Others explain it more ingeniously as denoting the eternal decree of God; “inquire if such be not the purpose of God;” but this exposition is not sufficiently natural. I willingly interpret it as denoting the Law itself, which by way of eminence is called “the book of the Lord;” for from the Law, as from its source, the Prophets drew their doctrine, as we have frequently remarked.
Lest the strangeness of the event should prevent the prediction from being believed, Isaiah says that the Jews had been warned of it long before; and thus he indirectly censures the unbelief of those who stared at the announcement, as. if it had been something uncommon. He appropriately brings them back to the Law, in which God frequently declares that he will take care of his people, and that he will punish the wicked and reprobate. Moses having long ago spoken in this manner, the Prophet says that there is no reason why it should be difficult to believe what he foretells, since he brings forward nothing new, but only confirms now what Moses declared and testified. Such appears to me to be the natural meaning of the Prophet, and by these words he intended to fortify the Jews, patiently to look for what the Lord promised, and fully to believe that all that had. been foretold about the Edomites and the other adversaries of the Church would at length be actually fulfilled, since Moses was a credible witness, that God would always be the avenger of his people. Besides, it was proper that they should be reminded of this, in order that, when these things should befall the Edomites, they might not think that they had happened by chance, but might know that they were brought about by the judgment of God. Such is the rebellion of men, that they do not believe God when he forewarns them, and what afterwards takes place by the judgment of God is ascribed by them to fortune. Isaiah therefore meets this, and bids them inquire at Moses, whose authority they all revered.
Not one of those; that is, of the animals; for the Hebrew writers employ these terms, איש (ish) and אשה, (ishshah,) not only for men and women, but for males and females of any species.
For his mouth hath commanded. He confirms what he formerly said; for although the works of God are sufficiently plain, yet by his mouth, that is, by the word, he makes them plainer to us, that we may see them more clearly. And this is the true contemplation of the works of God, when we keep our eye fixed on the mirror of the word; for otherwise our boldness is carried to excess, and we tke greater liberty than is proper, if heavenly doctrine do not guide us like a lamp. This ought therefore to restrain the boldness and rashness of men, who, despising the doctrine of the word, wish to dispute and form opinions about the judgments of God and all his worlds. If they “inquired at the book,” and asked at the mouth of the Lord, we should see greater piety and religion among them.
Yet by “the mouth of the Lord” the Prophet intended to confirm the vengeance which he had foretold, because nothing that has come out of God’s holy mouth can fail of its effect. Isaiah affirms that what God has once decreed, and published in his own name, cannot be reversed. By this shield he thus wards off all the doubts which quickly arise, whenever the promises of God go beyond our senses. Sometimes, indeed, he threatens conditionally, as he threatened the Ninevites, (Jon 1:2,) Pharaoh, (Gen 12:17,) and Abimelech, (Gen 20:3,) whom he spared, because they repented; but when he has once determined to revenge and punish, he gives actual proof that he is not less true and powerful than when he promised salvation to his people. The agreement of the words Mouth and Spirit makes it still more evident.
And his Spirit hath gathered them. Although “the breath of the mouth” often means the same thing as “speech,” and although it is customary with the Hebrew writers to repeat the same thing twice, yet here he alludes elegantly to the breath, from which the words proceed, and by which they are formed; as if he had said that this prediction is abundantly powerful, because the same God who by his voice commanded the brute animals to possess the land of Edom, will bring them by merely breathing. He speaks of a secret influence; and we ought not to wonder that the slightest expression of the will of God causes all the animals to assemble, as happened at the flood, (Gen 7:15,) and likewise at the very creation of the world, when, as Moses relates, all the animals were gathered together, by the command of God, to the first man, that they might be subject to his authority. (Gen 2:19.) And undoubtedly they would have continued to be subject and obedient to him, had not his own rebellion deprived him of that power and authority; but when he revolted from God, the animals at the same time began to refuse subjection and to attack him.
Fuente: Calvin’s Complete Commentary
A CALL TO STUDY
Isa. 34:16. Seek ye out of the Book of the Lord, and read, &c.
On the supposition that a Divine revelation is given to man, its most convenient method will be that of a permanent written record, thus available for the use of successive generations. Disparagement of a book revelation proceeds from misconception of its nature and ends. Out of its existence flows the universal right to its perusal, unless it is restricted in terms. Not only the right, but the duty. By personal study every one should know it (Joh. 5:39). Our Lord appealed to the conscience of the people, combined with their knowledge of the Word of God.
The duty is here urged in reference to the prediction of the downfall of Idumea. It was to become a desolation. Those into whose hands the prophecy falls are to search and read in the Book of the Lord, and compare the event. Nothing shall fail. Everything said shall find its mate, its corresponding fact; for Gods Spirit is the Author of the prediction. Idumea to-day is its confirmation.
We use the text in order to urge the study of Scripture as a Christian duty
I. BECAUSE THE BOOK IS DIVINE.
2Ti. 3:16; 2Ti. 1:13. It is the Book of the Lord. The Bible is a collection of the records of Divine revelations made at various times, but bearing on its great design. The inducement to read a book often depends on the author. We believe him to be endowed with literary skill, or an authority on the subject of the book. And if God is, in some way, through the various writers, the Author of the Book, the authorship is an important reason for reading it (H. E. I. 522, 523). Consider who and what He is, and the solemn relations in which He stands to us (H. E. I. 561). Its subjects will be worthy of Him and important to us. It will be authoritative. From the uncertainties of human thought we find in the Lords Book a safe resting-place.
II. BECAUSE THE BOOK IS INTERESTING.
In its form, apart from its subject-matter. Some form it must have. It might have been in the form of didactic statement only, without illustrative facts or poetic beauties. It would not have been read with interest. Or it might have been in the catechetical form. However useful this method in fastening definite notions in carefully chosen words, it would have failed to be a book to which men and women would return with delight as they return to the Bible after the period of youth has passed away. It is made interesting by the varied forms in which truth is communicated. It is poetic, historical, biographical. Its teaching is usually so connected with events and persons as to present points of interest always fresh. The man finds a solution of the profoundest problems of time and eternity. The child finds in its narratives of persons and events a charm that never fails. To its interesting form is owing, in a large degree, its hold on those who read it from day to day (H. E. I. 607609, 3860).
III. BECAUSE THE BOOK IS INSTRUCTIVE.
It contains a large amount of information, not only with regard to the Jewish nation, but also other nations of the ancient world. But this is not its main design. It is subordinate to the revelation of man as a sinner and of God as a Saviour. Gods character, mans relation to Him, human duty, the future state, are all instructively treated; but they all find their place in relation to Gods great plan for mans recovery, through the mediation of Christ, from misery and sin. And is not this the most important of all instruction? What would all history be, all science, all philosophy, if no voice from Heaven was heard respecting the most vital of all questions? Do you desire instruction respecting salvation? Search and read in the Book of the Lord.
IV. BECAUSE THE BOOK IS DIRECTIVE.
Is not the course of human life like that of a vessel exposed to winds that may drive her leagues out of her proper course? Does not man need careful guidance? Conscience is the captain, but conscience untaught and unguided will manage the ship uncertainly and erroneously (H. E. I. 12991307). The Book of the Lord is the directory for the conscience. No position demanding moral action can ever occur in which adherence to its direction will not issue safely. How pure its principles! How righteous its commands! How wise its directions! They touch our life at every point.
V. BECAUSE THE BOOK IS CONSOLATORY.
Sorrows are incident to human life. There are present troubles. Some are heart-breaking. We need help and comfort. The world does not contain it. Here is the balm that can heal every wound.
And there is the future. The prospect of death and eternity. Without the Book of the Lord men are uncertain and hopeless. It sheds clear light on both. How many, in the prospect, are delivered from fear and filled with hope! What comfort it affords under the bereaving stroke!
For all these reasons seek ye out the Book of the Lord. Bring every question to it. Read it daily, thoughtfully, for yourself, for others. In your youth. In your active manhood. In your old age.J. Rawlinson.
THE BOOK THAT WILL ENDURE TESTING
Isa. 34:16. Seek ye out of the Book of the Lord, and read, &c.
We may be sure that God would not give a revelation without affixing His seal to it; otherwise, it would be useless, there being no evidence of its Divine origin. Supposing a revelation given, what would constitute a satisfactory proof of its divinity? Evidently it must be some sign not capable of being counterfeited, some unmistakable indication that GOD has spoken to us. This might be given by some exertion of Divine power or some manifestation of Divine knowledge. As such, miracles and prophecy would furnish indubitable proof that a revelation was from God, and those which attest the Bible are its proper seals. Along with the internal evidence and the argument drawn from the success of the Gospel, they are so many buttresses supporting the edifice of revealed truth; but each is a distinct and sufficient support by itself. The Scriptures themselves appeal to the evidence of fulfilled prophecy in support of their reception as the Word of God, and one of the most pointed of these appeals is that before us. In this chapter Isaiah predicts the desolations that were to come upon the chief city of Edom. Placing himself forward in time amid the scenes he predicts, he challenges any one to compare the predictions in the Book of the Lord with the actual condition of the city; he is confident that the Book will bear that test, and will come out of it triumphantly.
I. Read the prophecy before us in the light of its fulfilment. The apologetic value of prophecy has often been discredited. Attempts have been made to explain it on natural grounds, as a sagacious forecast, a shrewd prognostication. But what natural sagacity could have foreseen that Edom, so powerful and prosperous in Isaiahs time, would become a desolate waste? It has been well remarked that prophecy possesses as a proof of Divine revelation some advantages that are peculiar. Its fulfilment may fall under our own observation, or may be conveyed to us by living witnesses. The evidence from miracles can never be stronger than it was at first; but that of prophecy is increasing, and will go on increasing until the whole scheme of perdition is fulfilled. It is the accomplishment, and not the mere publication of a prophecy, which supplies a proof of the Divine origin of the Bible; and this evidence is constantly accumulating. The prophets themselves did not understand some of their oracles (1Pe. 1:11-12). They were like documents written in colourless ink, to which some chemical preparation must be applied to make their characters legible. Their meaning could be seen only in their fulfilment. But all the prophetic writings are not thus obscure: many are clear and definite; more like the details of a historical narrative than the visions of prophecy. Nothing can be plainer than the description here given of the state to which Edom would be reduced. The wards of this lock are too intricate to be opened by any key which we choose to apply to it; but the fitting key has been found. The whole, says Alexander, is a magnificent prophetic picture, the fidelity of which, so far as it relates to ancient Edom, is notoriously attested by its desolation for a course of ages. The chief city in the region of Mount Seir was Selah or Petra, the Rock City. It was long unknown till it was discovered by Robinson, and since then it has been visited by successive travellers. It lay embedded among the hills. So nestled was it in its rocks that it could only be approached by two narrow defiles. Dwellings cut out of the solid stone line the face of the cliffs, and the central space indicates that a large city once stood upon it. Malachi speaks of its utter desolation (Mal. 1:2-3), but afterwards it recovered for a time. Its condition for centuries as described by unbiased witnesses is a standing evidence of the truth of the prophetic Word.
II. We may test the Book in other fields. As a tourist verifies his guide-book and finds it trustworthy at every step, so in many regions do we find the prophetic Word made sure (2Pe. 1:19-21). Babylon, Tyre, and the fortunes of the Jewish people, all bear witness to the truth of the prophecies. But especially in the career of our Lord and Saviour do we meet with remarkable fulfilments of Scripture. What could be more minute than some of the prophecies concerning Him? His miracles, His submission to unmerited suffering, His riding upon an ass, His being pierced, His being sold for thirty pieces of silver which should be applied for the purchase of the Potters Field, the lots cast on His vesture, and the vinegar given Him to drink, were all the subject of definite prediction.
III. The Bible will bear testing in its declarations concerning human nature. No book so unveils us to ourselves. We feel its truth in what it says about our noble origin, our lamentable fall, our sinfulness, and the strife within us between the flesh and the spirit. Because it tells us all that ever we did, we feel that it must be Divine.
IV. From all this two sound and important conclusions follow:
1. We may put equal confidence in its declarations concerning God. Nothing but Divine knowledge and insight can so disclose the future and the hidden; and if we have found the Bible reliable when it tells us of earthly things, may we not believe it when it tells us of heavenly things?
2. We may be sure that its prophecies concerning the future of Christs kingdom and the destiny of the human race will in like manner be fulfilled to the letter (Psa. 72:11; Psa. 72:17; Rom. 8:19; Rom. 8:23). So many of the prophecies of Gods Word have already been accomplished, that we should feel confident that those not yet fulfilled are surely marching on to their fulfilment. The prospects of success in the mission-field are brighter in our day than ever they were. The Church is taking an interest in the enterprise quite unknown to former generations, and openings have been made into lands before closed alike against commerce and Christianity. But even if our hopes of success were less cheering, we would not despair. With so many Bible predictions behind us in the past now become history, we cannot but be encouraged to look for the fulfilment of those glowing promises concerning the future coming of the Redeemers kingdom which stand on the inspired page. Let us never lose sight of those grand predictions; let us cherish a hopeful and expectant spirit, and in the confidence of success descend to the spiritual harvest of the world (H. E. I. 11661168).William Guthrie, M.A.
Fuente: The Preacher’s Complete Homiletical Commentary Edited by Joseph S. Exell
THE CERTAINTY OF GODS JUDGMENTS
Isa. 34:16-17. Seek ye out of the Book of the Lord, &c.
The text occurs midway between a series of predicted judgments pronounced on Edom as the representative of the wicked world, and another series of blessings foretold concerning the Church of God, but it is evidently retrospective.
While a minute verification of these predictions of vengeance might form a solid, convincing argument for the validity of trust in the Bible as the rule of faith and practice, there is another and more general way of regarding the text. Search into a certain book is enjoined because it is the Book of JEHOVAH.
Human faith finds its ultimate basis in God Himself. The certainty of the Divine judgments may therefore be inferred from
I. THE NATURE OF THE DIVINE BEING.
If the Bible be not merely a revelation from God, but a revelation of God, too much attention cannot be paid to those aspects of the Divine nature afforded by it which man may apprehend although he cannot comprehend them. Canst thou by searching find out God? &c. No; but enough may be learned of God to make us sure that it is madness to disobey Him or trifle with His commands.
1. The long-hidden Name of God. Proper names were made very expressive among the Jews. The name JEHOVAH was sacred above all others; they treated it with a superstitious reverence, not daring to pronounce it, &c. Doubtless they referred with awe to the time and circumstances of its communication to Moses (Exo. 6:1-2). And so may we in thinking of the Divine judgments. JEHOVAH, it is said, remembered His covenant, and was about to redeem the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt with a stretched-out arm, and with great judgments (Exo. 6:1-8). JEHOVAH: what does the Name mean? Beingunconditioned, absolute, immutable, eternal Being. If, then, God changes not, but is JEHOVAH, to sin against Him is inevitably to call down judgment; for JEHOVAHS will must be done on earth as it is in heaven.
2. Some of the attributes by the use of which we try to compass the Divine nature.
(1.) God is just. But sin, in all its forms, is a crying injustice, and affronts God so that the Divine majesty must assert itself in punishment.
(2.) God is good. But sin, as selfishness, is radically opposed to goodness in God, who has might, as well as right, on His side, and, therefore, pursues selfishness to its last resort.
(3.) God is holy. Separateness from all sin distinguishes Him in the midst of His relations to man. How, then, can sinners go unpunished? (H. E. I. 2281, 2282, 44784479, 46034610).
II. THE CHARACTER OF DIVINE LAW.
Law is a transcript of the Divine nature; the Divine character or handwriting making Him known to us; the far-reaching Hand of the Eternal. God reveals Himself in its sanctions, reward, and punishment. To obey is to reap reward; to disobey is to be laid hold of instantly by the outraged majesty of law. There is no human way of escape. Visible judgment may be deferred, but the Divine law is cognisant of all transgression. In the matter of the first sin, the formerly existing potentiality of punishment became an actually. The character of the Divine law may be seen
1. In the physical world. The designer of a ship or bridge diverges from mathematical truth only to produce disaster.
2. In Providence.
3. In the Word of God.
APPLICATION.If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? The Divine judgments cannot be evaded. God is love; but what love! God is a consuming fire; not sentimentally weak; not given to winking at transgression.
4. Gods grace magnifies His name and law. He condemned Christ as the Sin-Bearer to death. Thank God! the sinner may be pardoned, but the impenitent are surely handed over to punishment.J. Macrae Simcock.
Fuente: The Preacher’s Complete Homiletical Commentary Edited by Joseph S. Exell
(16) Seek ye out of the book of the Lord . . .The phrase is an exceptional one. Isaiah applies that title either to this particular section, or to the volume of his collected writings. When the time of the fulfilment comes, men are invited to compare what they shall then find with the picture which Isaiah had drawn. Keith and others have brought together from the descriptions of modern travellers, illustrations of the condition of Edom as it is well summed up by Delitzsch in loc. It swarms with snakes, and the desolate heights and barren table-lands are only inherited by wild crows and eagles; and great flocks of birds. It has to be remembered, however, that the decay was very gradual. The ruins of Petra and other Iduman cities are of Roman origin, and indicate a period of culture and prosperity stretching far into the history of the Empire.
His spirit.In the sense of the creative Breath of the Almighty working in Nature (Psa. 104:30).
Fuente: Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers (Old and New Testaments)
16, 17. Seek ye out of the book From the recorded prophecies delivered by Isaiah from Jehovah many a time heretofore, declaring judgments the like unto this one, and read, ponder. Not one of the creatures here alluded to shall fail; not one shall “want,” nor be without, its mate; not one shall miss the other: for, commanded by Jehovah, the prophet assuredly believed what he had declared. He also is to write it down, for other prophets after him to attest its truth by observing its fulfilment in the due time. The creatures named shall surely be gathered by the breath or command, the providence, of Jehovah, into that doomed land, and the “satyr” and the “screech owl,” names used by the prophet for poetic, spectral expression of effect, but which he endorsed not as fact, they too shall be there, fit place for the gathering of devils as the popular belief would have it and as a seclusion truly most appropriate for them in point of fact.
He hath cast the lot Such an allotment Jehovah has accurately, as by a measuring line, laid out for them. It is their legitimate home for ever.
The desolateness of this so graphically described region is also emblematic of the spiritual desolations that shall yet sweep over all nations, and peoples, and individuals who, like ancient Edom, join themselves in hostilities to the overthrow of the truth and kingdom of God. All these shall fall, never to rise again. But the next chapter the contrast to this and the closing part of the prophecy commencing with this, presents an opposite destiny for all who are the friends of God. They pass, as through a dark and sad desert of tribulations, to an entirely new change of scene, when Messiah is fully come, and God’s foes are overthrown.
Fuente: Whedon’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
Isa 34:16-17. Seek ye out of the book, &c. This period contains the confirmation of the preceding sentence; wherein the prophet, to convict the hypocrites, and confirm the pious, assures them of the certain completion of this prophesy. The scene of his discourse is so constructed, as if the prophesy was now fulfilled; when the prophet, supposing that his prophesy would still be extant at the time of the completion, invites all men of doubtful faith to seek into and consider this book or prophesy in all its parts, and to compare it with the completion. This is the sum of the period, which should be rendered, Search ye from the whole of the book of the Lord, and read; not one of these things shall fail: [no, not so much as the minutest circumstance, even respecting the impure beasts;] one shall not want the other; because the month of Jehovah hath commanded and his Spirit shall gather them.
REFLECTIONS.1st, We have in this chapter,
1. The awful summons sent forth to the nations of the world; yea the earth and all things therein are called upon to hearken, as if the irrational inanimate creatures were more attentive than hardened sinners.
2. The universality of the approaching judgments of God is declared against all the nations and their armies who have committed fornication with the great whore. See Rev 18:3 and therefore are doomed to utter destruction, Rev 19:21.
3. The execution of this terrible doom is displayed in the most awful colours: the carcases of the slain will be unburied, and send forth pestilential vapours; the very mountains are melted with blood, like rivers running down; the hosts of heaven, sun, moon, and stars, dropping as untimely figs, and the firmament wrapped up as a scroll, representing the utter ruin of the states and kingdoms of the followers of the man of sin, with their princes and mighty men (compare Rev 19:17-18. Rev 14:20. Rev 6:13-17.). And this is effected by the sword of the Lord, bathed in heaven, well-tempered, and descending with fury irresistible on Idumaea, probably the Romish state, the implacable enemy of the church of Christ, as the Edomites were of the Jews, and therefore called the people of my curse, lying under it, and doomed to this dire judgment. Before this sword the armies of Antichrist, the common soldiers, as lambs and goats, like hecatombs at the altar, fall sacrifices to divine justice at Bozrah, representing Rome, the capital of the antichristian powers: and their chief captains, fierce as bulls and strong as unicorns, shall perish together, and the land be soaked with their blood and fattened, or made drunk, as with showers of rain, such vast quantities should be shed, see Rev 16:6; Rev 17:6; Rev 14:20.
Note; (1.) Miserable, eternally miserable, are they who, by their sins provoking God’s curse, awaken his sword of judgment. (2.) If it be terrible but to hear the report, sinner, how wilt thou endure when this great day of his wrath shall come? (3.) The sinners in hell are eternal sacrifices to God’s justice; and therefore, when the smoke of their torment ascends, his saints adore him. (4.) However long triumphant, and cruelly oppressive, the enemies of God’s people may have been, their doom is determined, and God will give them blood to drink.
4. The equity of the procedure is remarked; this day of vengeance is the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion, when the church of God, and every persecuted member of it, will find a righteous judge espousing their quarrel, and recompensing to the full the injuries they have endured. See Rev 13:10; Rev 11:18. Note; When we are suffering for the testimony of the truth and a good conscience, we should be comforted in patient hope that the year of recompence is at hand for Zion’s friends and Zion’s enemies.
2nd, Awful and most awakening are the images here used to display the utter ruin and desolations of the enemies of Christ and his people; and which seem to look forward to the fall of Antichrist, and may also be applied to that great and terrible day of the Lord, when the sinner’s torment in body and soul will be completed.
1. Their land is described as the land of Sodom. Since sin hath rendered it as fuel for the flames, the wrath of God shall kindle the inextinguishable burnings; and their cities deserted, desolate, ruinous, shall become the abode of every unclean bird and ravenous beast; the elegance and dignity of which description cannot be equalled, and which every comment must debase. Only we may observe, [1.] The dreadful evil of sin, the cause of all those desolations. [2.] The folly and madness of attempting to fix our abode on earth, doomed so shortly, with all the works on it, to be burnt up. [3.] The terrible end of the ungodly, when wrath to the uttermost shall be poured out upon them, and they shall be cast into the lake of brimstone and fire which burneth for ever and ever.
2. An assurance is given of the most minute fulfilment of the prophesy. And when the destruction cometh, they are commanded to compare the event with the prediction, and not a tittle will be found to fail. Since God’s word hath commanded, his Spirit will accomplish it; collecting in exact order, as at the deluge, these monsters with their mates to their appointed abode; and, according to the dictates of justice, dooming the place to everlasting ruin. There, with the correspondent prophesies in the book of Revelations, are yet in the womb of time; but shall as surely be accomplished in their season, as those which we have seen already fulfilled. And when we read in the book of the Lord, the sure expectation thereof should comfort and support the suffering saints of God.
Fuente: Commentary on the Holy Bible by Thomas Coke
3. CONCLUDING REMARK: SUMMONS TO COMPARE THE PROPHECY WITH ITS FULFILMENT
Isa 34:16-17
16Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read,
No one of these 24shall fail,
None shall want her mate:
For my mouth it hath commanded, and bhis spirit it hath gathered them,
17And he hath cast the lot for them,
And his hand hath divided it unto them by line:
They shall possess it for ever,
From generation to generation shall they dwell therein.
TEXTUAL AND GRAMMATICAL
Isa 34:16. Comp. with Isa 30:8; Jer 36:29; Deu 27:3; Deu 27:8, etc. comp. Isa 29:11-12.The LXX. reads instead of and refer the word to what goes before. Moreover it has somehow confounded with , and derived from occurrere, for it reads thus: . In the is doubtless a reference to Gen 2:19. Strangely enough late expositors (Knobel, Meier) adopt this rendering through misconception of the passage.I do not believe that the feminines in and Hate relate only to the living beings enumerated in vers, 515. For why are not other traits of the prophecy, murder, burning, etc, to be fulfilled? And why conceive of all the living beings as feminine? The Prophet changes the gender ver, 17. I agree with those that take these feminines in a neuter sense, and as relating to all the traits of the predicted judgment, which is grammatically quite justifiable (comp. Isa 41:22). is used Isa 40:26, as here, in the sense of desiderari, deesse.As is said of inanimate things (Exo 26:3; Exo 26:5-6, etc.) so the same is possible of (asyndeton like Isa 34:15). is=to miss, (properly: to verify by inspection the non-existence, comp. 1Sa 20:6; 1Sa 25:15). The 3d pers. plur. denotes the impersonal subject=one. occasions great difficulty. Some (as Drechsler) would refer the suffix in to the Prophet and in to God. But could the Prophet say: my mouth has commanded it? He could only say announced, ( or the like). Thus the Vulg. translates: quod ex ore meo procedit, ille mandavit. But the LXX. has simply, . It is better, with several Rabbis and Delitzsch, to refer both suffixes to God: my mouth has commanded it and its spirit, i. e., the spirit of my mouth has gathered them. Still this is a strange form of expression. For it appears as if the Lord distinguished between His spirit and the spirit of His mouth, as if the latter were not His spirit; a distinction that does not appear Psa 33:6; Job 15:30. More over the explanation of Gesenius, who would take for the nomen regens belonging to (comp. Nah 2:9), is not satisfactory. This construction is quite abnormal; for Nah 2:9 is not similar. With the exception of the clause for my mouthhath gathered them, not only the entire preceding part of the chapt. but also verses 16, 17 are spoken only by the Prophet. A corruption of the text was very possible, in as much as , by reason of the after , could easily change to . Hence I think that we must simply translate his mouth. (Piel, see list) is to be referred to the same objects as the fem. suffixes preceding.
Isa 34:17. only here in Isaiah; comp. Psa 22:19; Eze 24:6, etc. alone and see list. and and comp. on verse 11. see verse 11.
EXEGETICAL AND CRITICAL
1. The Prophet translates himself in spirit into the time when his prophecy shall have been fulfilled. As a pledge to his present readers of the reliability of his predictions he, so to speak, stakes his own and Gods honor on the fulfilment, which must be compromised by the non-fulfilment. For what the mouth of the Lord has announced, that the Spirit of the Lord will bring to pass. Though the immediate reference of these words is to the prophecy against Edom, it lies in the nature of things that the present summons concerns in the same way all predictions of the Prophet. It is hard to see why only the prophecy against Edom should be provided with such a postscript as the present. It is therefore a natural conjecture that this postscript stands connected with the position, and general significance of this prophecy against Edom. The latter concludes part first: for with 36 the historical pieces begin. We have found, too, this prophecy against Edom to be an exemplification in one nation of what is to happen to all (Isa 34:1-4). We may then take this postscript as pertaining to all the preceding threatening prophecies, because all of them are, so to speak, comprehended in this last one against Edom. Now as chap 34 is certainly more recent than most of the foregoing pieces, it is probable that this postscript was first added when the collection was made, to which perhaps the expression Book of the Lord refers. But, one may ask, why is this postscript put at the end of 35.? The verses 16, 17 are by their contents most intimately connected with Isa 34:5-15. But why such an appeal to the written word only after a threatening prophecy? Christ, too, speaks the significant words behold I have told you before (Mat 24:25; Mar 13:23) after announcing judgments. Gods salvation comes to the pious, and they know from whose hand it comes. But the wicked will not hear of Gods sending judgments. They ascribe them to accident or fatalistic necessity. Therefore it specially concerns them to prove, that the judgment is something announced beforehand, and thus is something previously known and determined, that it is therefore the act of Him who knows all His works from the beginning of the world (Act 15:18). Added to this, 35, points forwards more than backwards. It is the bridge to chapters 4066, as it were, the morning twilight of the day of salvation, which dawns with chap. 40.
2. Seek yedwell therein. Isa 34:16-17. The summons to read in the written book seems to me to indicate that the Prophet has just been busy with a book and finished it, which he calls the book of the Lord. Gesen., and Drechsl., explain this to mean that the Prophet had in mind the insertion of his oracle in a collection of holy Scriptures; that he knew it to be a part of a greater whole, into which, in its time, it must be adopted. But then why does he think this only of this prophecy? Even though elsewhere there is mention of recording single prophecies for the purpose of appealing to them afterwards (Isa 8:1; Isa 30:8), still there is nowhere, beside the present, any mention of an entire book that deserved to be called the book of the Lord. But we evidently stand here at a boundary. The prophecies of part first conclude. Chapters 3639, form an historical supplement. With 40, the second part begins. And at this significant point a book of the Lord is mentioned. This is certainly not to be explained by saying that in closing his prophecy the Prophet happened here to mention the future book of which it was to become a part. It is much more likely that the Prophet provided this prophecy with such a conclusion, when he put this prophecy at the end of a great book, that he called Jehovah-book, as containing the entire Jehovah-word announced by him. The expression occurs only here. Only a work in which Jehovah had space to give an all-sided revelation of His nature and will, deserved this name. And only a Prophet that was conscious of having been Gods faithful instrument in all he had said and written, could set such a title to his book.
The prophecy must he fulfilled because God is author of it. This is the general sense. But as to particulars occasions difficulty, on which see Text. and Gram. The Spirit of God, or perhaps more correctly the breath of God drives, or rather blows together, from all quarters what God needs in one place for the accomplishment of His counsel. Compare an analogous use of Mic 1:7. The various beings or powers mentioned in Isa 34:5-15 are partly masculine, partly feminine. The Prophet repeats with emphasis that the total of them, i.e., the representatives of both genders are endowed with the land of Edom in eternal possession. He has similarly expressed the difference in gender by the different gender terminations, Isa 3:1.
[On Isa 34:17. An evident allusion to the division of the land of Canaan, both by lot and measuring line. (See Num 26:55-56; Jos 18:4-6). As Canaan was allotted to Israel, so Edom is allotted to these doleful creatures.J. A. Alexander.].
DOCTRINAL AND ETHICAL
1. On Isa 34:1-4. Because Rev 6:12-17 has express reference to this passage, some would conclude that the Prophet here has in view only that special event of the worlds judgment (the opening of the sixth seal). But that is not justified. For other passages of the New Testament that do not specially relate to the opening of the sixth seal are based on this passage (Mat 24:29; 2Pe 3:7 sqq.; Rev 14:11; Rev 19:11 sqq.). It appears from this that the present passage is, as it were, a magazine from which New Testament prophecy has drawn its material for more than one event of fulfilment.
2. On Isa 34:16. The word of God can bear the closest scrutiny. Indeed it desires and demands it. If men would only examine the Scriptures diligently and with an unclouded mind and love of truth, whether these things are so, as did the Bereans (Act 17:11; Joh 5:39)!
3. On Isa 35:3. The Christian church is the true Lazaretto in which may be found a crowd of weary, sick, lame and wretched people. Therefore, Christ is the Physician Himself (Mat 9:12) who binds up and heals those suffering from neglect (Eze 34:16; Isa 61:1). And His word cures all (Wis 16:12). His servants, too, are commissioned officially to admonish the rude, to comfort the timid, to bear the weak, and be patient with all (1Th 5:14). Therefore, whoever feels weak, let him betake himself to this Bethania; there he will find counsel for his soul, Cramer.
4. [On Isa 35:8-9. They who enter the path that leads to life, find there no cause of alarm. Their fears subside; their apprehensions of punishment on account of their sins die away, and they walk that path with security and confidence. There is nothing in that way to alarm them; and though there are many foesfitly represented by lions and wild beastslying about the way, yet no one is permitted to go up thereon. This is a most beautiful image of the safety of the people of God, and of their freedom from all enemies that could annoy them. The path here referred to is appropriately designed only for the redeemed of the Lord. It is not for the profane, the polluted, the hypocrite. It is not for those who live for this world, or for those who love pleasure more than they love God. The church should not be entered except by those, who have evidence that they are redeemed. None should make a profession of religion who have no evidence that they belong to the redeemed, and who are not disposed to walk in the way of holiness. But for all such it is a highway on which they are to travel. It is made by leveling hills and elevating valleys; across the sandy desert and through the wilderness of this world, infested with the enemies of God and His people. It is made straight and plain, so that none need err; it is defended from enemies, so that all may be safe; because He, their Leader and Redeemer, shall go with them and guard that way. Barnes in loc.]
Footnotes:
[24]fails, Neither one nor the other does one miss,
Fuente: A Commentary on the Holy Scriptures, Critical, Doctrinal, and Homiletical by Lange
Here the Lord seems to refer to the prediction, when the fulfillment arrives. As if the Lord had said, “Let such as behold the desolations here spoken of look back, and mark how I predicted them, and how faithfully my word is accomplished.” It is a solemn truth, though but seldom regarded as it ought, that, the very name of Jehovah Aloheim, (God in covenant) implies, that the Lord is, and will be, equally true to his threatenings, as to his promises: for all shall prove him the faithful God; Deu 7:9-10 .
Fuente: Hawker’s Poor Man’s Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
Isa 34:16 Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.
Ver. 16. Seek ye out of the book of the Lord. ] Sciscitamini ex libro Domini, the Holy Bible, which Bishop Bonner’s chaplain called, in scorn of the martyrs, Your little pretty God’s book. Another Bohemian blasphemer for Biblia called it Vitlia, which in the Bohemian language signifieth vomit. But let us search the Scriptures – and particularly this prophecy commanded to be written in a book Isa 30:8 – and compare the truth of these predictions with the events.
None shall want her mate.
Fuente: John Trapp’s Complete Commentary (Old and New Testaments)
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: Isa 34:16-17
16Seek from the book of the LORD, and read:
Not one of these will be missing;
None will lack its mate.
For His mouth has commanded,
And His Spirit has gathered them.
17He has cast the lot for them,
And His hand has divided it to them by line.
They shall possess it forever;
From generation to generation they will dwell in it.
Isa 34:16 Seek from the book of the Lord, and read Except for Isa 34:1, there are no IMPERATIVES in this chapter before this verse. YHWH’s calling them to approach and to listen in Isa 34:1 (two IMPERATIVES) is matched by the two IMPERATIVES which close the chapter (a common Semitic literary technique).
1. seek, BDB 205, KB 233, Qal IMPERATIVE
2. read, BDB 894, KB 1128, Qal IMPERATIVE
The nations have abrogated the dominion given to mankind in Genesis 2, so the animals are divinely allotted the land!
There have been many opinions about this book (BDB 706). Some see it as the judgment scroll (cf. Isa 29:11-12; Isa 30:8). Others see it as an allusion to the two books mentioned in Dan 7:10; Dan 12:1 and Rev 20:4-15, which are metaphorical for the memory of God.
1. the book of life
a. Exo 32:32
b. Psa 69:28
c. Isa 4:3
d. Dan 7:10; Dan 12:1
e. Luk 10:20
f. Php 4:3
g. Heb 12:23
h. Rev 3:5; Rev 13:8; Rev 17:8; Rev 20:12; Rev 20:15; Rev 21:27
2. the book of deeds/remembrances
a. Psa 56:8; Psa 139:16
b. Isa 65:6
c. Dan 7:10
d. Mal 3:16
e. Rev 20:12-13
Not one of these will be missing;
None will lack its mate.
For His mouth has commanded Here we have two metaphors that refer to the power of God’s word. The first is a military metaphor, while the second is a domestic one. When God speaks, it can be counted on (cf. Isa 24:3; Isa 25:8; Isa 55:10-11).
His Spirit has gathered them See the notes at Isa 11:2, and SPECIAL TOPIC: Personhood of the Spirit .
God gathers the animals/demons listed in Isa 34:11-15.
Isa 34:17 This is an allusion to the dividing of the land by lot (i.e., Urim and Thummim) in Joshua 12-19. It is an archaic way of asserting that the covenant is renewed and permanent!
Fuente: You Can Understand the Bible: Study Guide Commentary Series by Bob Utley
Seek = Search.
the book of the LORD. This proves there was a book in existence, which could be searched. See App-47.
fail = be missing. Hebrew. ‘adar. Not the same word as in Isa 19:5 (see note there). Occurs here in “former” portion, and Isa 40:26 in “latter”portion. See App-79. Isaiah 35 is the sequel to this long series of Burdens (Isa 13:1 Isa 35:10) and Woes; it sets forth the future return of Israel.
Fuente: Companion Bible Notes, Appendices and Graphics
Isa 34:16-17
Isa 34:16-17
“Seek ye out of the book of Jehovah, and read: no one of these shall be missing, none shall want her mate, for my mouth, it hath commanded, and his Spirit, it hath gathered them. And he hath cast lots for them, and his hand hath divided it unto them by line: they shall possess it forever; from generation to generation shall they dwell therein.”
What is this “book of Jehovah” that Isaiah here invited his audience to seek out and read? It can be none other than the book of the sacred Old Testament, including such things as the writings of Moses in the Pentateuch and that of any of the minor prophets who had preceded Isaiah, and also such other of the sacred writings that then existed; and this line here in Isa 34:16 shows that Isaiah knew that his own writings would be attached to that “book” and become a part of it. We do not believe that when Isaiah wrote this that he was, in any sense, suggesting that his prophecy alone was “the book of Jehovah.”
“Jehovah himself has cast the lot determining that this land shall belong to the wild animals (or demons). “They shall possess it forever” (Isa 34:17). For lo these two thousand years the land of Edom has been the possession of creatures that inhabit the desert and ruins left by man.”
The great theme here has been the final judgment, due to fall eventually upon Adam’s rebellious and headstrong race. God’s indignation has not diminished, and the eternal justice of this was commented upon thus by Payne:
“Every foe of God will one day be utterly banished from the scene. God’s children cannot be forever at the mercy of their enemies, here epitomized as Edom. Those who have hounded and harassed them cannot remain forever unpunished. The day of recompense and vengeance is sure to come.
God also has a score to settle with men who fully deserve the indignation and vengeance of our Heavenly Father. He created us in harmonious fellowship with himself in the Paradise of Eden; but man decided to become a servant of Satan, lost his estate and his glorious inheritance, and then set about to take away even the knowledge of God’s existence from his posterity. That resulted in a world filled with violence, which God terminated in the Great Deluge.
Beginning over again in the family of Noah, the very knowledge of God was once more in danger of disappearing from the earth, as indicated by the Tower of Babel, which situation God terminated again by confounding the languages of men and by the selection of a “chosen people” who were commissioned to keep alive the name and knowledge of the Heavenly Father until the Messiah would be born.
But the Jews failed to live up to their assignment, and proved to be no better than the Gentiles, from whom God had separated them. As Paul wrote in the first two chapters of Romans they were in no way superior morally to the Gentiles; and when the promised Messiah finally came, they hated him and arranged his murder.
In the current dispensation, the “fullness of the Gentiles” is in the process of having come in; and then the great calamities of that awful period preceding the final judgment will come to pass according to the prophecies; and then will appear that “Day which God has appointed, upon which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he has appointed, whereof he hath given assurance unto all men in that he raised him from the dead!” (Act 17:31).
Isa 34:16-17 WORD OF THE LORD: Some have said the book of Jehovah was a volume collected of the works of Moses, some of the prophets before Isaiah, and the psalms of David. But there is no evidence of such a collection then. It is better to understand the book to be that of Isaiahs own writings up to that point. Nothing contained in his writings shall fail of fulfillment is the prophets warning, for his writings are the work of Jehovah. Every utterance of his, even in the minute detail of the animals marked to possess Edoms territory, will come to pass, for although the predictions come through the mouth of Isaiah, it shall be the Spirit of the living God which shall bring them to pass. The Lord allots to all the nations of the earth their boundaries (cf. Jer 27:5 ff). He has now allotted Edom to the unclean beasts and birds which are mentioned. He has marked it desolate (cf. Mat 23:38). All kingdoms which oppose God are marked for destruction (cf. 1Co 15:24-28; 1Co 15:50). Edom is here typical and representative.
Fuente: Old and New Testaments Restoration Commentary
Seek: Isa 30:8, Deu 31:21, Jos 1:8, Pro 23:12, Dan 10:21, Amo 3:7, Mal 3:16, Joh 5:39, Joh 10:35, 2Pe 1:19, Mat 5:18, Luk 21:33
my mouth: Gen 6:17, Psa 33:6, Psa 33:9
Reciprocal: 1Ch 28:8 – keep Neh 13:1 – they read Luk 16:29 – have Act 17:11 – and searched Rev 5:1 – a book
Fuente: The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Isa 34:16-17. Seek ye out of the book of the Lord Here the prophet confirms the preceding prediction; and, to convict hypocrites, and confirm the pious, assures them of the certain completion of his prophecy. He terms it, and his other prophecies, The book of the Lord. as being a part of divine revelation; and he supposes they would be extant at the time of the completion of their contents, and therefore invites all men to seek into and consider them in all their parts, in order that, comparing the events with the predictions, they might be fully satisfied of the truth of them, and thereby might find their faith in them, and all the other parts of Gods book, confirmed. Not one of these shall fail No, not so much as the minutest circumstance, even respecting the impure beasts now mentioned. None shall want her mate As I have said that the vultures should all have their mates, so it shall be: for my mouth The mouth of the Lord; it hath commanded The direful muster of the beasts and fowls; these marks and evidences of desolation; and his Spirit That is, his power; it hath gathered Shall gather all his creatures together, as he formerly brought the creatures to Adam and to Noah, by an instinct which he put into them. And he hath cast the lot for them, &c. He hath divided the land to them, as it were, by lot and line, as Canaan was divided among the Israelites.
Fuente: Joseph Bensons Commentary on the Old and New Testaments
34:16 Seek ye out of the {p} book of the LORD, and read: no one of {q} these shall fail, none shall lack her mate: for my {r} mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.
(p) That is, in the law where such curses are threatened against the wicked.
(q) That is, beasts and souls.
(r) That is, the mouth of the Lord.
Fuente: Geneva Bible Notes
In closing, Isaiah’s thought turned back to Isa 34:1. Those summoned to listen to this remarkable revelation might need to assure themselves of its certainty by referring to the written record of it in this prophecy and elsewhere (cf. Isa 13:21-22). The Lord’s mouth commanded this judgment, and His Spirit will execute it (cf. Gen 1:2). God sovereignly gave Canaan to His people, and in the future He will give the Edoms of this world to the desert creatures.
How does this picture of devastation, so thorough that no human beings remain alive, harmonize with other revelation concerning the Tribulation? According to Rev 6:8; Rev 9:18, half of the world’s population will have perished by the end of the sixth trumpet judgment. Many more devastating judgments will fall on earth-dwellers after the sixth trumpet judgment, specifically the seven bowl judgments, the worst ones of all in the Tribulation. Therefore what Isaiah pictured may be what the earth will look like at the very end of the Tribulation, just before Jesus Christ returns to the earth. There will be some people left alive on the earth then, but Isaiah’s description was perhaps hyperbolic to make the point that God will judge all the earth’s inhabitants. A common amillennial understanding of this chapter, is that it describes the final judgment of humankind, at the end of history-just before the beginning of eternity.