Old Testament
Isaiah 13:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Listen to the noise of a multitude in the mountains, like a great people; a tumultuous noise of kingdoms and nations gathered together. The LORD of hosts is mustering an army for battle.
Compare translations
The noise of a multitude in the mountains, like as of a great people; a tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together: the LORD of hosts mustereth the host of the battle.
What Isaiah 13:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 13:4, the prophet describes a loud and chaotic sound coming from the mountains, which symbolizes the gathering of powerful nations and armies. This noise represents the impending judgment and destruction that God is orchestrating against Babylon. The phrase 'the LORD of hosts is mustering an army for battle' indicates that God is in control, commanding the forces of nature and nations to fulfill His divine purpose. This verse emphasizes God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to raise up armies for His plans. The imagery of a multitude suggests a significant and overwhelming force, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The passage serves as a reminder that God is actively involved in the affairs of the world, and His judgments are certain and just. It calls the reader to recognize the power of God and the reality of His plans for justice and retribution against those who oppose Him.
How to apply Isaiah 13:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty over world events. In times of chaos and uncertainty, we can find comfort knowing that God is in control and has a purpose for everything. We should remain faithful and vigilant, understanding that God will ultimately bring justice.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 13:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 13:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 13:4 mean?
Isaiah 13:4 describes a loud noise from the mountains, symbolizing the gathering of powerful nations for battle. It indicates God's control over these events as He prepares to execute judgment against Babylon.
What is the significance of 'the LORD of hosts' in Isaiah 13:4?
The phrase 'the LORD of hosts' emphasizes God's authority and power over all armies and nations. It highlights His role as the commander of the forces that are being gathered for the impending judgment.
What does the noise in Isaiah 13:4 represent?
The noise in Isaiah 13:4 represents the tumult and chaos of nations coming together, signifying the seriousness of God's judgment. It illustrates the overwhelming force that God can muster for His purposes.
How does Isaiah 13:4 relate to God's judgment?
Isaiah 13:4 relates to God's judgment by showing that He is actively gathering nations for battle as part of His divine plan. It underscores the certainty of His judgment against those who defy Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.