Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Isaiah - Chapter 31 - Verse 8

31:8
Then shall the Assyrian fall with the sword, not of a mighty man; and the sword, not of a mean man, shall devour him: but he shall flee from the sword, and his young men shall be discomfited.

Meaning

As the Assyrian empire grew in power and influence, they became a significant threat to the nations surrounding them. In this verse, it is foretold that the Assyrians will not be defeated by the weapons of mighty men, nor by the feeble attempts of the weak. Instead, it is prophesized that they will be brought down by a force beyond human strength, a divine power that will consume them. The Assyrians, who were known for their military prowess and cruelty, will find themselves fleeing from an unstoppable force that will bring about their downfall. Even their young soldiers, who were often just as fierce as their elders, will be left disorganized and defeated. This verse serves as a reminder that no matter how powerful or invincible a nation may seem, there are forces beyond human control that can bring about their ultimate demise.

Theological Overview

This verse, found in the book of Isaiah, contains a prophetic message about the downfall of the Assyrian empire. The use of the sword in this passage symbolizes the instrument of destruction that will bring about the Assyrian's defeat. The verse highlights the fact that it will not be the strength of a mighty man or the cunning of a mean man that will bring about Assyria's downfall, but rather it will be the divine intervention of God. The imagery of the Assyrian fleeing from the sword emphasizes the inevitability of their defeat, despite their attempts to escape. Additionally, the mention of the young men being discomfited indicates the complete annihilation of the Assyrian army, leaving no one to carry on their legacy. This verse serves as a reminder of God's power to bring about justice and defeat even the most formidable of enemies.

American Standard Version

And the Assyrian shall fall by the sword, not of man; and the sword, not of men, shall devour him; and he shall flee from the sword, and his young men shall become subject to taskwork.
Previous VerseNext Verse