Old Testament

Isaiah 19:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Isaiah 19:16, the prophet describes a time when Egypt will experience great fear and vulnerability, likening the nation to women who are often seen as weaker in a patriarchal society.

Author: Isaiah the prophet
Written: Around 700 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Judah and the surrounding nations

CBTClear Bible Translation

On that day, Egypt will be like women, afraid and fearful because of the shaking of the hand of the LORD of hosts, which he shakes over it.

KJVKing James Version

In that day shall Egypt be like unto women: and it shall be afraid and fear because of the shaking of the hand of the LORD of hosts, which he shaketh over it.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Isaiah 19:16, the prophet describes a time when Egypt will experience great fear and vulnerability, likening the nation to women who are often seen as weaker in a patriarchal society. This imagery emphasizes the dramatic shift in power and security that Egypt will face due to the actions of the LORD of hosts. The 'shaking of the hand' signifies God's authority and intervention, suggesting that Egypt's strength will be undermined by divine judgment. The verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and highlights the futility of relying on human strength in the face of divine power. The fear that grips Egypt reflects a broader theme of nations facing the reality of God's sovereignty and the inevitable consequences of their actions. This passage invites readers to consider the importance of humility and reliance on God rather than on their own might or the might of nations.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Isaiah 19:16 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of humility before God. In times of uncertainty or fear, we should turn to Him for strength and guidance rather than relying solely on our own abilities. Trusting in God's power can help us navigate challenges with confidence.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 19:16 mean?

Isaiah 19:16 describes a time when Egypt will feel great fear and vulnerability, comparing the nation to women, which highlights a loss of strength due to God's judgment. The 'shaking of the hand' symbolizes God's authority intervening in Egypt's affairs.

What is the significance of Egypt being compared to women in Isaiah 19:16?

In Isaiah 19:16, Egypt being likened to women emphasizes its vulnerability and fear in the face of divine judgment. This imagery reflects a shift in power dynamics, illustrating how even strong nations can be brought low by God's sovereignty.

What does the 'shaking of the hand' mean in Isaiah 19:16?

The 'shaking of the hand' in Isaiah 19:16 signifies God's authority and intervention over Egypt. It indicates that God's actions will lead to Egypt's downfall and instill fear among its people.

What themes are present in Isaiah 19:16?

Isaiah 19:16 contains themes of divine judgment, fear and vulnerability, God's sovereignty, and the consequences of human weakness. It illustrates how nations can face dire outcomes when they turn away from God.

Book Summary

The Book of Isaiah

Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You

The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.

The isles see and fear, and the ends of the earth draw near. Craftsmen encourage one another and strengthen idols with nails so they do not move. The LORD then speaks directly to Israel, calling him his servant, the seed of Abraham his friend. He tells Israel not to fear, for he is with him, and says he strengthens, helps, and upholds him with the right hand of his righteousness. He promises those who contend with Israel are as nothing, makes Israel a new sharp threshing instrument that threshes mountains, and answers the poor and needy by making rivers in high places and fountains in valleys. Isaiah 42: Behold My Servant The LORD presents his servant, whom he upholds and in whom his soul delights. He says he puts his spirit upon him and that he brings forth judgment to the Gentiles, not crying or lifting up his voice in the streets, and not breaking a bruised reed. The LORD says he calls him in righteousness, holds his hand, keeps him, and gives him for a covenant of the people and a light of the Gentiles. The LORD declares his glory he does not give to another nor his praise to graven images. He speaks of new things before they spring forth and calls for a new song from the ends of the earth. The chapter describes the LORD going forth as a mighty man and crying out against his enemies. It describes a people robbed and spoiled, snared in holes, yet not saying, “Restore,” and it says they do not lay it to heart. The LORD pours upon them fury of his anger and the strength of battle, yet they do not know or consider.

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