Isaiah 17:2

"The burden of Damascus. “Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it will be a ruinous heap."

Key Reflection

Isaiah 17:2 paints a vivid picture of the fall of Damascus, a significant ancient city that was a major power in the region during Isaiah's time. The term "burden" suggests this is a weighty prophecy, indicating serious impending judgment. This prophecy not only foretells the destruction of Damascus but also serves to highlight God’s sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring about the downfall of even powerful cities, reinforcing the message that no city or nation is beyond His control.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The cities of Aroer -By “Aroer” here seems to be meant a tract or region of country pertaining to Damascus, in which were situated several cities. Grotius supposes that it was a tract of country in Syria which is called by Ptolemy “Aueira” -ΑὔειραAueira. Vitringa supposes that one part of Damascus is meant by this, as Damascus was divided by the river in the same manner that Babylon was. There were several cities of the name of “Aroer.” One was on the river Arnon in the land of MoabDeuteronomy 2:36;Deuteronomy 3:12;Joshua 12:3. Burckhardt found this city under the name ofAroer. There was another city of this name further north, over against Rabbath-AmmonJoshua 13:25.

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