.10:1-4.

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The fall of Israel (Isa 9:8-10:4)

Isaiah now describes the situation in the northern kingdom Israel, which becomes weakened by enemy attacks and finally is conquered by Assyria. The northerners refuse to acknowledge that God is the one who has brought this catastrophe upon them. They make a show of self-assurance by saying they will rebuild, bigger and better, whatever their enemies have destroyed (Isa 9:8-12).

Because the people refuse to repent, God will punish them further. His purpose is to remove the whole nation from the land (Isa 9:13-14).

Sin dominates in every level of Israel’s society, from civil and religious leaders to the common people. Therefore, all must fall under God’s judgment (Isa 9:15-17).

As a fire destroys a forest, so the people’s wickedness has destroyed their nation. This catastrophe has been sent by God, as a punishment on the people for their sins (Isa 9:18-19).

They are greedy and jealous, and attack each other like a lot of wild animals (Isa 9:20-21).

Special blame is placed on the judges and civil leaders who, through injustice and corruption, have oppressed the people while making themselves rich. But their wealth will not save them when God sends a foreign army to destroy the nation and take its survivors captive (Isa 10:1-4).