Isaiah 42:15

"“I have been silent a long time. I have been quiet and restrained myself. Now I will cry out like a travailing woman. I will both gasp and pant."

Key Reflection

In Isaiah 42:15, God is describing His prolonged silence before declaring His judgment and restoration. The imagery of a travailing woman who cries out in pain resonates with the historical context of Israel’s experiences, where God had patiently endured their rebellions but was now ready to act decisively, much like a mother enduring labor before giving birth—a moment of intense suffering followed by liberation.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

I will make waste mountains -This verse denotes the utter desolation which God would bring upon his foes in his anger. The meaning of this part of the verse is, that he would spread desolation over the hills and mountains that were well watered and laid out in gardens and orchards. It was common to plant vineyards on the sides of hills and mountains; and indeed most of the mountains of Palestine and adjacent regions were cultivated nearly to the top. They were favorable to the culture of the vine and the olive; and by making terraces, the greater portion of the hills were thus rescued for purposes of agriculture.

More from Isaiah 42

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