Isaiah 16:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The speaker urges Arnon to consider how to protect the survivors, reminding that only a small portion of the fleeing Moabites can be counted. This suggests that not all have found safety and that those who have escaped are very few. The prophetic words indicate the end of God’s judgment against Moab, as their numbers dwindle severely. The remnants that Arnon has accepted may not find lasting support, as the source of their previous strength has vanished—namely, the leader of the Moabites who once instilled fear. His fall signifies the collapse of any hope for a return to former glory.

Moreover, it is proclaimed that the wicked will be uprooted and cease to exist (Proverbs 2:22). When divine anger is unleashed, what remains of the scourged can scarcely endure. The overarching message is that restoration for the Moabites is no longer viable, for they have lost their protection and strength, leaving them in despair. In this context, Arnon's duty now is to offer solace during a time of profound suffering and fear.

The mountain of the daughter of Zion can be interpreted as the city of Jerusalem or, more mysteriously, as the Church founded upon virtue.

Like a bird fleeing its nest, so too will the daughters of Moab be at the crossing of the Arnon. Returning to his original thought, he states that he will place a more ferocious lion to ravage their regions, causing them to scatter in fear. All the settlements of Moab will pass over the Arnon, a boundary line between the Ammonites and Moabites, evoking thoughts of captivity.

Engage in careful discussion and call for counsel; provide shelter for those who seek refuge and protect those who wander. My exiled people will make their home with you; O Moab, be their haven from the destroyer, for the dust has settled, the wicked have been vanquished, and he who oppressed the earth has vanished. The original Hebrew term suggests a similar connection to the desolator. Thus, the call to Moab is for wise counsel, urging the leaders to gather for salvation. If you desire to be saved and receive God’s mercy, become a protective shade for my people in their flight, shielding the vulnerable and ensuring those who wander are not forsaken. The Lord assures that after the devastation of Jerusalem and neighboring Judea, my people will seek refuge with you. Fear not the impending threat from the devastator, for he will soon dissipate like dust while the one who brought desolation will vanish swiftly.

The throne will be established in mercy, with one seated upon it in truth within David's tabernacle—one who judges, seeks righteousness, and quickly rewards justice. The Hebrews interpret this passage to mean that following the expulsion of the Assyrian king, Hezekiah, a righteous ruler will ascend to the throne of David and govern justly. Others see this as a reference to Christ, who shall reign after the downfall of the Antichrist, administering justice from David’s tabernacle and rewarding all according to their actions on the Day of Judgment. This passage undoubtedly prophesies the coming of Christ, and it can also reflect upon the Church as a testament to His power, evidenced by the churches established throughout Moab.