Isaiah 21:2 Meaning and Explanation
“A grievous vision is declared unto me; the treacherous dealer dealeth treacherously, and the spoiler spoileth. Go up, O Elam: besiege, O Media; all the sighing thereof have I made to cease.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The prophet reports a vision of Elam and Media attacking, and God silencing the groaning.
The Context of Isaiah 21:2
God reveals to Isaiah the agents of Babylon's downfall and His role in ending her reign.
What Does Isaiah 21:2 Mean?
Isaiah receives a vision concerning betrayal and violence. Elam and Media—regions east of Babylon—are summoned to besiege Babylon itself. The prophecy speaks to real historical forces: the Medes and Persians who would eventually conquer Babylon in 539 BCE.
The phrase all the sighing thereof have I made to cease reveals God's sovereignty over the outcome. Whether through conquest or divine intervention, God declares He will end the sufferings connected to Babylon's dominion. The vision assures that oppression is not permanent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 21:2
What does Isaiah 21:2 mean?
The prophet reports a vision of Elam and Media attacking, and God silencing the groaning.
What is the context of Isaiah 21:2?
God reveals to Isaiah the agents of Babylon's downfall and His role in ending her reign.