Isaiah 19:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And the land of Judah shall be a terror unto Egypt, every one that maketh mention thereof shall be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the LORD of hosts, which he hath determined against it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Judah will become a source of terror to Egypt; merely mentioning Judah will cause fear, because of God's purpose.
The Context of Isaiah 19:17
Judah becomes a symbol of God's power and purpose, and Egypt fears it.
What Does Isaiah 19:17 Mean?
Remarkably, Egypt's terror will stem from Judah—the small nation Egypt once dominated. This is not because Judah is militarily stronger but because Egypt knows that God is with Judah. Every mention of Judah will cause fear in Egyptian hearts, not from Judah's power but from the awareness of God's presence and purpose through Judah.
This reveals the spiritual dimension of the prophecy. What makes one nation fear another is not military might alone but the presence of God. Egypt understands—too late—that it stands against 'the counsel of the LORD of hosts,' God's determined purpose. This understanding itself becomes a torment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 19:17
What does Isaiah 19:17 mean?
Judah will become a source of terror to Egypt; merely mentioning Judah will cause fear, because of God's purpose.
What is the context of Isaiah 19:17?
Judah becomes a symbol of God's power and purpose, and Egypt fears it.