Understanding Isaiah 15:5

Isaiah 15:5 reads: "My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives shall flee unto Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction." This verse encapsulates the profound sorrow and lamentation faced by Moab during its downfall, expressing God's compassion and concern for a nation that once stood in opposition.

Analysis and Commentary

This section synthesizes insights from public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry: He emphasizes the emotional depth of the verse, noting that the cry for Moab reflects God's heart for the lost. The reference to "Moab" symbolizes a nation in distress, as they face impending destruction.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes highlights the geographical aspects, mentioning Zoar as a refuge. He interprets the "heifer of three years" as a symbol of innocence and the suffering caused by war. The "weeping" represents both the physical journey and emotional turmoil of the people.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke delves into the metaphorical language, suggesting that the image of the heifer illustrates vulnerability. He explains that the "cry of destruction" signifies the deep anguish and the societal collapse that follows God's judgment.

Key Themes

The verse addresses several interconnected themes:

• Divine Compassion: God's heart breaks for the suffering of Moab, indicating His care for all nations.
• Judgment and Redemption: The juxtaposition of God's judgment with the possibility of refuge in Zoar speaks to the hope of salvation amidst despair.
• Emotional Turmoil: The emotional reflections captured in weeping and cries highlight the human condition in times of crisis.

Cross-References and Connections

Isaiah 15:5 can be cross-referenced with several other Bible passages that illuminate similar themes:

• Jeremiah 48:3 - Discusses the destruction of Moab, echoing Isaiah's sentiments.
• Isaiah 16:1-5 - Continues the discourse on Moab, extending God's promise of refuge.
• Luke 19:41-44 - Jesus weeps over Jerusalem, paralleling God's sorrow for cities under judgment.
• Psalm 37:13 - God's laughter at the wicked aligns with the assurance of His justice.
• Isaiah 53:3 - The suffering servant motif resonates with the cry for mercy amidst sorrow.
• Matthew 16:21 - Jesus foretelling His suffering connects the themes of weeping and anguish.
• Romans 9:2 - Reflects the Apostle Paul's sorrow for his own people, akin to Isaiah's lament.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

When exploring Isaiah 15:5 and its connections, several resources can be invaluable:

• Bible concordances that provide extensive references.
• Online Bible cross-reference guides for thematic studies.
• Apps and websites dedicated to cross-referencing scriptures.

Application and Reflection

This verse invites readers to reflect on:

• The broader implications of God's judgments and His compassion for nations.
• How we respond to the suffering of others, instilling a heart of empathy.
• Our understanding of divine justice versus mercy in contemporary contexts.

Conclusion

In summary, Isaiah 15:5 serves as a poignant reminder of God's heart for humanity amidst judgment. The combined insights from public domain commentaries enrich our understanding, illustrating the multifaceted nature of biblical texts through effective cross-referencing. By linking Isaiah to related scriptures, we gain a comprehensive picture of the themes of compassion, judgment, and hope found throughout the Bible.