Isaiah Chapter 47

Isaiah 47 records how the Israelites are finally set free from her oppressor, as God passed judgment to Babylon. It also echoes similar judgment on the sinful nation Babylon recorded in other parts of the Bible like Isaiah 21, Jeremiah 50-51, and Revelation 17-18.

The pompous Babylon could neither continue living in her arrogance nor relying on her false gods or sorcerers.

From the book of Daniel, we read how it is a common practice for the Babylonian kings to seek astrologers, magicians etc. to interpret dreams or read the future (Daniel 2:2;4:6). But similar to the ending in Daniel’s story, the reliance on these astrologers is futile as they are powerless beings who cannot even save themselves (Isaiah 47:14).

On the contrary, our Living God is a faithful God who is merciful and faithful. He did not dwell in His anger nor forsake His people (Psalm 30:5). After letting His people get taken away to captivity, He returned to execute judgment on the nation who showed no mercy to His people (v6). 

As for the reflection point for us, we can consider whether we have slowly been assimilated to Babylon, which is often used to represent the sinful world. The warnings are stern and clear. If we get charmed to stay in Babylon, we will also share in her humiliation and judgements.

Jeremiah 51:6

Flee from the midst of Babylon, And every one save his life! Do not be cut off in her iniquity, For this is the time of the Lord’s vengeance; He hall recompense her.

Revelation 18:4

And I heard another voice from heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.

Babylon’s beauty is fleeting, but the judgment imputed on her is everlasting. Therefore, let us stay vigilant and not get charmed by her beauty, lest we also share in her judgments.

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