Isaiah 20

¹ In the year that Tartan came unto Ashdod, (when Sargon the king of Assyria sent him,) and fought against Ashdod, and took it;

² At the same time spake the LORD by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, Go and loose the sackcloth from off thy loins, and put off thy shoe from thy foot. And he did so, walking naked and barefoot.

³ And the LORD said, Like as my servant Isaiah hath walked naked and barefoot three years [for] a sign and wonder upon Egypt and upon Ethiopia;

⁴ So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians prisoners, and the Ethiopians captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, even with [their] buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt.

⁵ And they shall be afraid and ashamed of Ethiopia their expectation, and of Egypt their glory.

⁶ And the inhabitant of this isle shall say in that day, Behold, such [is] our expectation, whither we flee for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria: and how shall we escape?

Overview of Isaiah Chapter 20

Isaiah Chapter 20 is a prophetic text that presents a unique narrative involving the prophet Isaiah and a significant symbolic act that serves as a message to the nations of Israel and Judah. The chapter emphasizes themes of judgment, humiliation, and the sovereignty of God over nations.

Contextual Background

This chapter is set in the historical context of the Assyrian threat to Israel and Judah. It follows Isaiah’s previous prophecies regarding the impending judgment on various nations, including Egypt and Cush (Ethiopia). The chapter serves as a direct warning to the people of Judah about their reliance on foreign powers for security.

Key Themes

• Symbolic Actions: Isaiah’s actions are meant to convey a message from God, demonstrating the seriousness of the impending judgment.
• Judgment Against Egypt and Cush: The chapter emphasizes the futility of relying on these nations for help, as they will ultimately face destruction.
• Divine Sovereignty: The text underscores God’s control over the fate of nations, highlighting His authority in the face of human alliances.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

1. Verse 1: The chapter begins with a historical note regarding the Assyrian invasion during the reign of King Sargon II, establishing the timeframe and the geopolitical landscape.
2. Verse 2: God commands Isaiah to remove his sackcloth and shoes, symbolizing a prophetic act of humiliation and vulnerability, signifying the fate of Egypt and Cush.
3. Verse 3: Isaiah’s three-year act of walking naked and barefoot serves as a sign and wonder against Egypt and Cush, illustrating the shame that will come upon these nations.
4. Verse 4: The prophecy reveals that the king of Assyria will lead captives from Egypt and Cush, emphasizing the total defeat and humiliation of these nations.
5. Verse 5: The people of Judah are warned that they will be dismayed and ashamed for relying on Egypt and Cush, which will not provide the security they seek.
6. Verse 6: The chapter concludes with a stark reminder that the people of Judah will realize their folly in trusting these nations, leading to a sense of despair and loss.

Theological Implications

Isaiah 20 serves as a powerful reminder of the theological principle that God is sovereign over all nations. It challenges the belief that human alliances and military might can offer true security. The chapter’s emphasis on humiliation and judgment reflects the consequences of misplaced trust and the importance of reliance on God alone.

Conclusion

In summary, Isaiah Chapter 20 presents a vivid prophetic message through symbolic actions and stark warnings. It calls the people of Judah to reconsider their alliances and trust in God’s sovereignty, highlighting the futility of relying on foreign powers in times of crisis. The chapter serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of faithfulness to God.