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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 17 - Verse 1

17:1
The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.

Meaning

The verse "The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap." foretells the destruction of the city of Damascus. This prophecy is found in the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament of the Bible. Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The verse speaks to the devastation that will befall the city, rendering it desolate and in ruins. The message is a warning of impending judgment and serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and sin. In biblical prophecy, the destruction of a city often symbolizes divine retribution for the sins of its people. The verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's will. It also highlights the fact that ultimately, no city or kingdom is beyond the reach of God's judgment.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of the verse "The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap," from the book of Isaiah, highlights the concept of divine judgment on nations that have strayed from God's will. In this specific case, the prophet Isaiah prophesies the destruction of Damascus, the capital of Syria, as a consequence of its rebellion against God. The word "burden" signifies a prophetic message of judgment or doom that the prophet has been called to deliver. The word "ruinous heap" indicates the extent of the devastation that will befall Damascus, reducing it to rubble. The significance of this verse lies in the reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience to God's commands, emphasizing the primacy of divine justice and righteousness.

American Standard Version

The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.
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