Isaiah 16:5Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The tabernacle, as it is termed, is understood to represent the king's palace, where those who have journeyed together will adjudicate according to the laws of their rulers. As for God's will, utmost care was taken regarding truth, although some had strayed from righteousness and descended into depravity. It is important to recognize that following their return from Babylon, the Israelites did not reside apart; the ten tribes and half of Ephraim dwelt in Samaria, led by their own king, while the tribe of Judah and half of Manasseh resided in Jerusalem with another appointed king. Yet, united in purpose, they ultimately shared Jerusalem, anointing one king collectively. This aligns with the prophetic declaration that they would “go out from the earth, and rest in little anointing of king and prince” (Hos. 1:11; Hos. 8:10). However, God promises to restore the throne to the Jews, implicitly challenging Moab for its mockery, for it declared that “Mount Zion is an empty stone.” To you who openly derided Israel, such things will come to pass; yet God will surely and unfailingly extend His mercy to them, rescuing them from their plight and restoring their kingdom to its former glory.

They shall be as the birds fledging from their nests: so too shall the daughters of Moab behave when they reach the ford of Arnon. The text reverts to its initial premise, suggesting that when a fierce lion arises to bring judgment upon those who remain in Moab and its cities, terror will scatter them, compelling them to cross over that boundary, which separates the Ammonites from the Moabites.

Engage in dialogue and convene; let your shadow envelop noon as night does, offering shelter to those who seek refuge and protecting those who stray. Let my exiles find a home with you; Moab shall be their sanctuary from the face of the devourer. The dust has settled, the cruel has fallen, and he who trampled the earth has vanished. The original Hebrew conveys a sense of desolation, urging Moab to seek wise counsel and gather leaders for its salvation. To gain the mercy of God, offer protection to my fleeing people during their journey, hiding them from peril. The prophecy indicates that after the devastation of Jerusalem and Judea, my people will seek refuge with you. Fret not over the invader, for he will soon fade like dust, and the oppressor will be cast aside like mere chaff.

A throne will be established in grace; upon it shall sit the one who judges with truth in David's dwelling, seeking righteousness and swiftly rewarding what is just. The Hebrews interpret this to refer to Hezekiah, who, following the Assyrian exile, ruled with justice. Others see it as a foreshadowing of Christ. When the dust of the Antichrist is scattered and the one who oppressed the world is crushed, King Christ will ascend to David's throne, rewarding each according to their deeds come judgment day. It is undoubted that this passage prophetically speaks of Christ, while also alluding to His first coming, as the churches established throughout Moab bear testimony to His mighty power.