Bible Commentaries
Isaiah 21

Verses 1-17

In this chapter we have prophecies concerning Babylon, Dumah, and Arabia. With regard to Babylon, the prophet has seen the vision of the whirlwind sweeping against it, and so terrible is it that he is filled with horror. Babylon, all unconscious, is described as given over to carousal. The prophet at the command of Jehovah has been on the watch tower and has now seen the foe coming against Babylon. He makes this the occasion of warning to his own people.

Very brief but very forceful is the burden of Dumah. The prophet has heard some inquiring voice demanding the hour of the night. In briefest words he answers, declaring that he sees morning and night, and inviting further inquiry.

The burden of Arabia consists of a vision and interpretation. The vision is of a fugitive people. The interpretation is of judgment coming on the children of Kedar within a year.