Isaiah 15:6

"My heart cries out for Moab! Her nobles flee to Zoar, to Eglath Shelishiyah; for they go up by the ascent of Luhith with weeping; for on the way to Horonaim, they raise up a cry of destruction."

Key Reflection

In the historical context of Isaiah 15:6, this passage describes Moab's sudden and devastating fall, as announced by the prophet. The original audience would have recognized Zoar and Eglath Shelishiyah as significant cities in Moab; the nobles' flight to these places indicates a desperate attempt to find refuge. The ascent of Luhith, where they "weep with weeping," likely refers to a steep path that symbolizes their sorrowful journey. Horonaim, another key location, is associated with destruction and lamentation, as evidenced by the cries heard there. This verse paints a vivid picture of Moab’s collapse, resonating with the audience's understanding of specific geographic and cultural landmarks tied to Moabite history and geography.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

For the waters of Nimrim -It is supposed by some that the prophet here states the cause why the Moabites would flee to the cities of the south, to wit, that the “waters” of the northern cities would fail, and the country become desolate, and that they would seek support in the south. But it is more probable that he is simply continuing the description of the desolation that would come upon Moab. Nimrah, or Beth Nimra, meaning a “house of limpid waters,” was a city of Reuben east of the Dead Sea (Numbers 32:3; compareJeremiah 48:34). It was, doubtless, a city celebrated for its pure fountains and springs of water.

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