Isaiah 47 - Introduction

God's judgment upon Babylon and Chaldea, for their unmercifulness, pride, and audaciousness, shall be irresistible.

Before Christ 712.

THE first part of the 4th section contains an apostrophe to Babylon, as the seat of a great empire; and herein first are foretold the abolition of that empire, and the degradation of its citizens to the lowest servitude, Isaiah 47:1 to middle of Isaiah 47:3 and the efficient cause hereof, namely, God, who shews himself, (latter end of Isaiah 47:3.) and is shewn by the church, here introduced as speaking, Isaiah 47:4. Secondly, we have the extreme and durable calamity of Babylon; Isaiah 47:5 and the impulsive causes of this calamity: First, their cruelty to the people of God, Isaiah 47:6 and secondly, their pride and presumption, Isaiah 47:7 thirdly, the same argument is continued: where, first, the third impulsive cause is premised, namely, their luxury, voluptuousness, security, arrogance, and carnal confidence in the stability of their state: Isaiah 47:8. Secondly, the calamity itself, widowhood, solitude, and that suddenly, and at once, notwithstanding the contrary prediction of their diviners, Isaiah 47:9. Fourthly, again, in the same manner, first, the fourth impulsive clause is premised, the oppression of the nations, and the carnal wisdom and confidence joined thereto, Isaiah 47:10 secondly, the calamity; namely, the destruction and sudden desolation determined by Jehovah, Isaiah 47:11. In the second part, Babylon is first commanded, by the strongest sarcasm, to bring forth, in this time of her calamity, her magicians, diviners, astrologers, that she may seek help or comfort from those in whom she trusted and gloried, Isaiah 47:12 secondly, the vanity, impotence, and unhappy end of all those who exercise these arts, or seek protection in them, are set forth, Isaiah 47:14.