Isaiah 16:12 Meaning and Explanation
“And it shall come to pass, when it is seen that Moab is weary on the high place, that he shall come to his sanctuary to pray; but he shall not prevail.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moab will exhaust themselves seeking help through prayer at their sanctuaries, but their prayers will be unanswered.
The Context of Isaiah 16:12
Moab's futile attempt to gain divine help through traditional religious practices in their moment of crisis.
What Does Isaiah 16:12 Mean?
Exhaustion leads Moab to religious desperation, ascending to high places—traditional sites of worship and sacrifice. The turning to their sanctuary represents a last resort, an acknowledgment that human power cannot save them. Yet even this religious effort fails; their prayers encounter silence from their gods.
The inability to prevail despite prayer suggests that Moab's gods are powerless or absent. This could reflect either the actual limitation of pagan deities or, more significantly, that Moab's own unfaithfulness has severed the relationship with the divine. Prayer without repentance and faith becomes hollow.
Isaiah 16:12 in the Original Language
high place (בָּמָה) — a cultic site, often on elevated terrain, used for worship and sacrifice in ancient Near Eastern religion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 16:12
What does Isaiah 16:12 mean?
Moab will exhaust themselves seeking help through prayer at their sanctuaries, but their prayers will be unanswered.
What is the context of Isaiah 16:12?
Moab's futile attempt to gain divine help through traditional religious practices in their moment of crisis.