Isaiah 29:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Then he continues, stating, I will provoke Ariel. These remarks pertain to the initial proclamation (woe to Ariel) since he previously declared woe to Ariel. After including an exhortation, he revisits his earlier sentiment and asserts, I expressed woe to Ariel; I will incite his anger, and his power and wealth will be mine, meaning I will seize all his treasures and strengths. This should be understood in both a physical and spiritual context. Their material wealth had dwindled as the invaders ravaged the city; their once formidable and honorable might was also shattered, as they faced defeat at the hands of the Romans. Furthermore, they were stripped of virtuous qualities, experiencing a deficiency of every good, which included the loss of the riches of the Law's wisdom. Additionally, when he declares, ‘I will encircle you with a barricade and siege towers,’ it refers to the siege of Jerusalem that occurred following the crucifixion of the Savior.

There will be lamenting and sorrow... and I will take my stand... in your vicinity. These events are the forerunners of the city's salvation. I will establish... a fortress, as the adversaries who surround you will press upon you. And I will place sentinels all around you...