Isaiah 16, as explained by Halley’s Bible Handbook, describes a prophecy of judgment against Moab for its pride, which was a continuation of the message in chapter 15. It calls for Moab to send a flock lambs as a tribute to Jerusalem, symbolizing their need to submit to Judah and the ruler of Judah’s land. A flock of lambs is no great issue for Moabites. However, it also reveals that Moab’s arrogance led to the destruction of its prosperity and a devastating downfall. 

Moab’s desperate plea and punishment

• The chapter begins with a plea for Moab to send *a lamb as a tribute to the ruler of Judah, a gesture of seeking favor and protection.

*Probably a flock of lambs. Some translations read “lamb” while others use the plural form … “lambs.”

• Isaiah describes Moab as being like a “fluttering bird” pushed from the nest, showing their helplessness and confusion as they are fleeing an oppressor.
• Look at Deuteronomy 2:9. They were not to destroy Moab and take their land. King David, Israel’s greatest king, was one-quarter Moabite. His paternal grandmother Ruth was from Moab, and David entrusted his father and mother to the protection of the king of Moab when he was a fugitive from Saul (1Samual_22:3-4).

The Ultimate Destruction and judgement of Moab

• Despite their attempts to find refuge, the prophecy states that Moab’s gods were unable to help them.
• The judgment is described as a devastating downfall, with the destruction of their vineyards and a wailing cry throughout the land.
  • NOTE: There is no MOAB today. Moabites were not simply scattered but slaughtered. There is no promise from God that they will retrieve their lands as is promised to Israel.
• Isaiah emphasizes that Moab’s pride and arrogance are the cause of their judgment.
• Within three years, what is left of Moab’s glory and power would be destroyed, leaving only a small remnant of scattered survivors. 
• The land of Moab, specifically the area called Ar, had already been given by God to the descendants of Lot as their possession.

Lessons from the prophecy

• The danger of pride: The prophecy serves as a warning against excessive pride and arrogance, which can lead to self-destruction. This is still true today.
• The consequence of late repentance: Moab is condemned for waiting until it was too late to repent.
  • Sincere repentance is never “too late” if there is life, many Bible verses warn that those who delay repentance are likely to find it difficult to turn to God. It MUST be a real thing. It is not a nearby life vest one can grasp as their ship is obviously sinking.
• God’s mercy and justice: God’s actions toward Moab demonstrate his mercy and desire for righteousness, while also carrying out justice against those who oppose him.
• The importance of submission: The prophecy illustrates the importance of submitting to God’s authority and accepting the help that he offers, instead of relying on one’s own strength and pride.
• A message of hope: The prophecy offers a glimmer of hope for the future, suggesting that God’s kingdom will be established on mercy and that he will quickly bring righteousness. 

There is no Moab or Moabite today. Their kingdom is all part of Jordan. Yes, names have been changed over time. Moabite culture was centered on agriculture and animal husbandry in a fertile land, with a polytheistic religion that prominently featured the god Chumash. Again, sending a tribute was not an issue for Moab, but they refused. Their pride got in the way.

They had a language similar to Hebrew. This is a no-brainer since they are/were relatives of Israelis. Lot, Abraham’s nephew, was the ancestor of the Moabites through one of his two daughters. At the fleeing of the twelve Tribes of Israel from Egypt, Moabites were part of the Canaanites found in the Bible. Genesis19:36-37 (cntrl/click or tap) state that Lot’s eldest daughter bore a son naming him Moab.

Rev. Dr. Jstark – 2025