Why is such violent imagery used in this passage? (Isaiah 13:6–8)
6 Wail, for the day of the Lord is near;
it will come like destruction from the Almighty.[a]
7 Because of this, all hands will go limp,
every heart will melt with fear.
8 Terror will seize them,
pain and anguish will grip them;
they will writhe like a woman in labor.
They will look aghast at each other,
their faces aflame.
Isaiah 13:6 - 8
ESV - 6 Wail, for the day of the Lord is near; as destruction from the Almighty it will come! 7 Therefore all hands will be feeble, and every human heart will melt.
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked May 20 2019
•
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
Supporter
The violent imagery was meant to unmistakably convey the nature of the righteous judgment that God would execute against Babylon for its treatment of Judah. However, it also applies (in the dual sense -- present and future -- in which much of Biblical prophecy is written) to God's judgment at the close of the age against unforgiven sin, and its unredeemed perpetrators who have not been reconciled to God through faith in Christ (which is the only means that God has provided for such forgiveness). Since no one knows when those end-time events will take place, fear of such consequences should still serve -- thousands of years later -- as a continual inducement to repent and seek salvation.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible