Holden my peace] leaving prayers unanswered (Psalms 28:1; Habakkuk 1:13). Refrained myself] not interposing by miracles or mighty acts. During the period of the exile there had been no divine interposition on behalf of Israel. Destroy and devour] RV 'gasp and pant.'

15, 16. The difficulties in the way of the returning exiles will disappear.

18-20. Israel, though called to be Jehovah's Servant, cannot comprehend Has message given through the prophet. Note the contrast to the ideal Servant (Isaiah 42:1), which suggests that, in the end, the Servant will be an Israel within Israel.

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