Isaiah 22:2 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou that art full of stirs, a tumultuous city, a joyous city: thy slain men are not slain with the sword, nor dead in battle.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jerusalem's death and destruction are self-inflicted, arising from internal chaos and poor judgment rather than military defeat.
The Context of Isaiah 22:2
Jerusalem's downfall will come from internal failure, not external conquest.
What Does Isaiah 22:2 Mean?
The city is described as full of 'stirs' (turmoil, commotion) and 'joyous'—possibly ironic, or depicting a populace in denial about approaching disaster. The contrast between a bustling, celebrating city and the imminent loss of life underlines the disconnect between public mood and grim reality.
The key phrase—'not slain with the sword, nor dead in battle'—indicates the people will die not from external military assault but from famine, plague, or desperate circumstances. Their undoing comes from mismanagement, folly, and lack of preparation rather than enemy swordplay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 22:2
What does Isaiah 22:2 mean?
Jerusalem's death and destruction are self-inflicted, arising from internal chaos and poor judgment rather than military defeat.
What is the context of Isaiah 22:2?
Jerusalem's downfall will come from internal failure, not external conquest.