Isaiah 34:1-17

This and the following chapter constitute the second part of the final circle of the prophecies of judgment. Terrible indeed is the description of world-wide desolation which this chapter presents. The nations, the people, and the whole earth are summoned to hear. Jehovah declares His indignation, and announces His determination to act in a judgment which will involve the whole earth and the host of heaven.

From this wide outlook, the prophet passes to a description of the judgment of God on Edom, which illustrates the larger truth already declared. In this terrible passage (verses Isa 34:5-17) the reason of the divine vengeance is revealed in the statement, "For it is the day of the Lord's vengeance, the year of recompense in the controversy of Zion."