Isaiah 22 - Introduction

INTRODUCTION TO ISAIAH 22

This chapter contains two prophecies, one concerning the invasion of Judah and Jerusalem, not by the Medes and Persians, but by the Assyrian army, under which they served; and the other of the removal of Shebna, an officer in Hezekiah's court, and of the placing of Eliakim in his stead. After the title of the former of these prophecies, the distress of the people, through the invasion, is described, by their getting up to the housetops, Isaiah 22:1 by the stillness of the city, having left both trade and mirth; by the slain in it, not by the sword, but through fear or famine, Isaiah 22:2 by the flight of the rulers, and by the lamentation of the prophet, Isaiah 22:3 the instruments of which distress were the Persians and Medes serving under Sennacherib, who are described by their quivers and shields, their chariots and horsemen, Isaiah 22:6 the methods the Jews took to defend themselves, and their vain confidence, are exposed; for which, with their disrespect to the Lord, and his admonitions, their carnal security and luxury, they are threatened with death, Isaiah 22:8 then follows the prophecy of the deposition of Shebna, who is described by his name and office, Isaiah 22:15 whose pride is exposed as the cause of his fall, Isaiah 22:16 and he is threatened not only to be driven from his station, but to be carried captive into another country, suddenly and violently, and with great shame and disgrace,

Isaiah 22:17 and another put in his place, who is mentioned by name, Isaiah 22:20 and who should be invested with his office and power, and have all the ensigns of it, Isaiah 22:21 and should continue long in it, to great honour and usefulness to his family,

Isaiah 22:23 yet not always, Isaiah 22:25.