Old Testament
Isaiah 19:2
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"I will turn the Egyptians against each other. Brother will fight brother, neighbor will fight neighbor, city will battle city, and kingdom will clash with kingdom.
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And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall fight every one against his brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, and kingdom against kingdom.
What Isaiah 19:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 19:2, God declares that He will cause internal strife among the Egyptians. This prophecy indicates a time of chaos where familial and community bonds will break down, leading to conflict between brothers, neighbors, cities, and kingdoms. The verse highlights the severity of the situation, suggesting that the Egyptians will turn against one another rather than unite against external threats. This internal division serves as a judgment from God, reflecting the consequences of their idolatry and rebellion against Him. The imagery of brother fighting brother and city battling city illustrates the complete breakdown of social order and harmony, emphasizing the destructive nature of civil discord. This prophecy serves as a warning about the dangers of disunity and the importance of seeking peace and reconciliation within communities. It also points to the broader theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring about His will, even through conflict and turmoil.
How to apply Isaiah 19:2 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of unity and peace within our communities. It encourages us to resolve conflicts amicably and to foster relationships based on understanding and love. By promoting harmony, we can prevent the destructive outcomes of division.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
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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 19:2 mean?
Isaiah 19:2 means that God will cause the Egyptians to turn against each other, leading to conflict among families, neighbors, and cities. This reflects a time of chaos and internal strife as a consequence of their rebellion against God.
What is the significance of brother fighting brother in Isaiah 19:2?
The phrase 'brother fighting brother' in Isaiah 19:2 signifies a complete breakdown of familial and social bonds, illustrating the depth of division and chaos that will occur among the Egyptians.
How does Isaiah 19:2 relate to themes of disunity?
Isaiah 19:2 highlights the theme of disunity by showing how internal conflict can lead to societal breakdown. It emphasizes the destructive nature of division and the importance of maintaining harmony within communities.
What does the prophecy in Isaiah 19:2 indicate?
The prophecy in Isaiah 19:2 indicates that God has the power to bring about turmoil within nations, using internal strife as a form of judgment. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over human affairs.
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