Isaiah 13:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Behold, I will stir up the Medes against them, which shall not regard silver; and as for gold, they shall not delight in it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God will send the Medes, who cannot be bribed with wealth.
The Context of Isaiah 13:17
God identifies the Medes as the instrument of Babylon's judgment.
What Does Isaiah 13:17 Mean?
The prophecy now names the specific instrument of judgment: the Medes. They are significant because they 'shall not regard silver' nor delight in gold—traditional means of bribery and ransom. No amount of wealth can purchase mercy or protection from them.
The characterization of the Medes as immune to wealth-based negotiation suggests they are driven by other motives—perhaps conquest, honor, or pure military purpose. This makes them particularly effective agents of unstoppable judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 13:17
What does Isaiah 13:17 mean?
God will send the Medes, who cannot be bribed with wealth.
What is the context of Isaiah 13:17?
God identifies the Medes as the instrument of Babylon's judgment.