Old Testament
Isaiah 16:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Because of this, Moab will cry out for Moab; everyone will wail. You will mourn for the foundations of Kir Hareseth, for they are utterly destroyed.
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Therefore shall Moab howl for Moab, every one shall howl: for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall ye mourn; surely they are stricken.
What Isaiah 16:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah conveys a message of deep sorrow and mourning for the people of Moab. The phrase "Moab will cry out for Moab" emphasizes the collective grief of the Moabites as they face destruction. The specific mention of Kir Hareseth, a significant city in Moab, highlights the devastation of their homeland. The foundations of this city are described as "utterly destroyed," indicating a complete loss of stability and security. This lamentation reflects not only the physical destruction but also the emotional and spiritual anguish of the people. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting despair that follows. It illustrates the broader theme of judgment and the impact of sin on communities, urging readers to consider the importance of faithfulness and the dire consequences of rebellion against God.
How to apply Isaiah 16:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the importance of remaining faithful to our values. It serves as a reminder to support those who are suffering and to recognize the impact of collective grief in our communities. We should strive to build strong foundations in our lives and relationships.
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Keep studying Isaiah 16:7
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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 16:7 mean?
Isaiah 16:7 expresses the deep sorrow of the Moabites as they mourn the destruction of their city, Kir Hareseth. It highlights their collective grief and the consequences of their actions, reflecting on the emotional and spiritual anguish they face.
What is the significance of Kir Hareseth in Isaiah 16:7?
Kir Hareseth is mentioned in Isaiah 16:7 as a key city in Moab that has been utterly destroyed. Its mention symbolizes the loss of stability and security for the Moabites, emphasizing the severity of their situation.
What themes are present in Isaiah 16:7?
Isaiah 16:7 encompasses themes of mourning, destruction, collective grief, and judgment. It illustrates the impact of sin on communities and the resulting emotional and spiritual anguish.
Why does Moab cry out for Moab in Isaiah 16:7?
The phrase 'Moab will cry out for Moab' in Isaiah 16:7 signifies the shared grief among the Moabites as they face devastation. It emphasizes their unity in sorrow over the destruction of their homeland.
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