.21:1-10.

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Vision of the fall of Babylon (Isa 21:1-10)

The next message of judgment concerns ‘the wilderness of the sea’ (RSV), which we soon learn is another name for mighty Babylon. The prophet has a vision of its destruction, which occurred in 539 BC when the combined forces of Persia (Elam) and Media conquered the city (Isa 21:1-2).

(Daniel 5:1-31 records the story of Babylon’s capture while the king was feasting with his mighty men.)

Although the prophet always longed for the destruction of Judah’s oppressors, now that the time has come he turns away in horror. The sight of the slaughter is terrifying (Isa 21:3-4).

Babylon’s leaders, who should be preparing the nation’s defences, are all feasting merrily when the enemy attacks. They are suddenly stirred to action, but it is too late (Isa 21:5).

In his vision the prophet sends a man to Babylon to report what he sees (Isa 21:6-7).

The man reports that he sees the invading army approaching, and he knows that this is the end for Babylon (Isa 21:8-9).

This is good news for God’s people, as it means that the nation that so long oppressed them has finally been overthrown (Isa 21:10).