But the cormorant and the bittern shall possess it; the owl also and the raven shall dwell in it: and he shall stretch out upon it the line of confusion, and the stones of emptiness.
But wild birds like cormorants, herons, owls, and ravens will take over the land. God will measure it out for destruction and chaos, marking it for complete emptiness.
God is describing how a once-inhabited land will become so desolate that only wild birds will live there, measured out for complete destruction.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Isaiah, the prophet is delivering a message of judgment against the nations that have rebelled against God, with a specific focus on Edom in this chapter. This verse uses vivid imagery of wild birds and animals, such as the cormorant and owl, to symbolize the complete desolation and abandonment of the land after divine wrath. It reflects the historical context of ancient Near Eastern warfare, where conquered territories were often left in ruins as a sign of God's retribution.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.