The meaning here is straightforward: no matter how powerful the Assyrians might appear, despite the vastness of their authority across nations, they will be defeated by an angelic force. Just as numerous hairs cannot withstand sharp scissors, so too shall the enemies of God face certain destruction, leading to Assyria’s eradication, or at least forcing a retreat of their forces back to their homeland, leaving you unharmed. The message then shifts directly to Judah and Jerusalem: 'I have afflicted you, but I will not afflict you longer.' This assurance implies not everlasting safety, but respite from the immediate foes besieging them.
The phrase ‘And now I will break his scepter,’ refers to the Assyrian, and signifies a metaphor for his authority, or possibly the instrument he wielded against you and the fetters he intended for captives. These fetters may also symbolize the restriction the siege imposed upon the people. According to the translation from the LXX, the intent shifts somewhat. The address seems to return to those who previously conspired against the Lord, contemplating evil against Him.
Thus proclaims the Lord, who presides over the mighty waters—or the heavenly authorities, which are ordained to honor Him, or perhaps the wisdom and teachings of God. Just as rivers of living water flow from the righteous (John 4; John 7), so too do the teachings of the heretics manifest from their own sources. The following phrase, ‘and they shall be divided,’ can pertain to the celestial beings in the highest places, as each has a distinct service, or it could refer to the diversity of divine wisdom. This clarification is given to prevent any misunderstanding that ‘He that reigns over the waters of many’ implies confusion among thoughts, rather each thought carries its unique essence and foundation.
The declaration, ‘the rumor of you shall be heard no more,’ serves as a threat to those who conspire against God, suggesting that once their deceit is revealed, their words will no longer be acknowledged or accepted by the people. Similarly, the pronouncement, ‘And now I will break his scepter from you, and I will break your bonds,’ aims to reassure those addressed by this warning: they will not endure further attacks from the enemy nor be subjected to the oppressive schemes devised against them. Consequently, the dominion held over them will be shattered, and the chains binding the souls of sinners will be loosed by the command of God’s word saying to the captives, ‘Come forth’ (Isaiah 49:9).
THEOSIS