Isaiah 16:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Send ye the lamb to the ruler of the land from Sela to the wilderness, unto the mount of the daughter of Zion.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moab seeks aid from Edom, sending tribute in the form of a lamb to its ruler.
The Context of Isaiah 16:1
Moab's desperate attempt to secure protection through tributary gifts to neighboring powers.
What Does Isaiah 16:1 Mean?
Moab, isolated and threatened, sends a lamb as tribute to the ruler of the land across the desert. The specific mention of Sela and the wilderness suggests a difficult journey through treacherous terrain to reach the addressee. This describes a desperate act of submission and appeasement by a weaker nation.
The sending of a lamb—a costly gift—reflects Moab's willingness to pay any price for protection. The wilderness passage emphasizes the extremity of the circumstances that force Moab to seek this alliance with a foreign power. Vulnerability and economic sacrifice mark their attempt at survival.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 16:1
What does Isaiah 16:1 mean?
Moab seeks aid from Edom, sending tribute in the form of a lamb to its ruler.
What is the context of Isaiah 16:1?
Moab's desperate attempt to secure protection through tributary gifts to neighboring powers.