Isaiah 13:19 Meaning and Explanation
“And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Babylon, once glorious, will be destroyed like Sodom and Gomorrah.
The Context of Isaiah 13:19
Babylon, despite its greatness, faces destruction comparable to Sodom and Gomorrah.
What Does Isaiah 13:19 Mean?
The verse acknowledges Babylon's former glory—it is 'the glory of kingdoms' and 'the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency.' This establishes a sharp contrast: a city of such magnificence will be utterly destroyed, as God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah in ancient times.
The comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah invokes the biblical precedent of complete and final destruction. Just as those cities were erased for their wickedness, so too will Babylon face total ruin. The prophecy asserts that no city is too great to escape God's judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 13:19
What does Isaiah 13:19 mean?
Babylon, once glorious, will be destroyed like Sodom and Gomorrah.
What is the context of Isaiah 13:19?
Babylon, despite its greatness, faces destruction comparable to Sodom and Gomorrah.