Isaiah 34:11

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وتَرِثُها البَجَعَةُ والقُنفُذ، ويَسكُنُ فيها البومُ والغُراب، ويَمُدُّ علَيها حَبلَ الخَواء، ومِقْياسُ تَسوِيَةِ الخَلاء.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Isaiah describes a land that will be left desolate and empty, with only wild birds like cormorants, bitterns, owls, and ravens inhabiting it. The land is marked as a place of confusion and emptiness. The speaker is God, and the key message is about divine judgment and the consequences of disobedience.

Explained for Children

Imagine a big playground that was once full of kids playing but now is empty, and only some birds live there. This verse is like that playground, showing how God makes a place empty because the people there did bad things.

Historical Background

Isaiah, a prophet, wrote this verse around 700 BCE. He was speaking to the people of Judah and Israel, warning them of the consequences of their disobedience and the coming judgment from God. The cultural setting was one of political turmoil and divine intervention.

Living It Out Today

Imagine a neighborhood that once thrived but fell into disrepair because of neglect and bad choices. This verse can remind us that choices have consequences and that places or situations can become desolate if not cared for.

Topics

• judgment
• consequences
• divine intervention
• desolation
• wildlife
• retribution

Related Verses

• Ezekiel 30:17
• Jeremiah 50:39
• Zephaniah 2:14
• Matthew 23:38
• Revelation 18:2

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'stretch out upon it the line of confusion' mean?

It means that God will mark the land with chaos and confusion, showing the desolate state it will be in.

Why are birds mentioned in this verse?

Birds like cormorants, bitterns, owls, and ravens are often found in desolate places. They symbolize the emptiness and desolation of the land.

How does this verse relate to other parts of the Bible?

It shares themes of divine judgment and desolation with other prophetic books like Ezekiel and Jeremiah, showing a consistent message about the consequences of disobedience.

What can we learn from this verse about consequences?

We can learn that actions have consequences, and neglect or disobedience can lead to desolation and emptiness, emphasizing the importance of right living and responsibility.