Isaiah 14:31
Howl, O gate; cry, O city; thou, whole Palestina, art dissolved: for there shall come from the north a smoke, and none shall be alone in his appointed times.
Isaiah 14:31 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is delivering a message of impending destruction to the city of Philistia. The call for the gate and city to "howl" and "cry" signifies the deep mourning and devastation that is to come. The mention of Philistia being "dissolved" paints a picture of complete destruction and chaos. The prophet warns that a great army is coming from the north, causing smoke to fill the air as a symbol of destruction and warfare. The phrase "none shall be alone in his appointed times" suggests that no one will escape the devastation, emphasizing the widespread destruction that will occur. This verse serves as a warning to the people of Philistia to repent and turn back to God before it is too late. It is a powerful reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of staying faithful to God.
Theological Overview
The verse "Howl, O gate; cry, O city; thou, whole Palestina, art dissolved: for there shall come from the north a smoke, and none shall be alone in his appointed times." (Isaiah 14:31) has a strong theological interpretation that reveals the prophet Isaiah's foretelling of the future destruction and chaos that will come upon the land. The call for the gate and the city to howl and cry symbolizes the impending doom that is approaching. The mention of "smoke from the north" signifies the advance of armies or invaders, as smoke is often associated with destruction and war. The phrase "none shall be alone in his appointed times" suggests that everyone will face the consequences of their actions, emphasizing the collective judgment that will befall the people of Palestina. This verse serves as a warning of the impending judgment that will be brought upon the land, urging the people to repent and turn back to God before it is too late.
Isaiah 14:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
Howl, O gate; cry, O city; thou art melted away, O Philistia, all of thee; for there cometh a smoke out of the north, and there is no straggler in his ranks.
World English Bible
Howl, gate! Cry, city! You are melted away, Philistia, all of you; for smoke comes out of the north, and there is no straggler in his ranks.
Douay-Rheims
Howl, O gate; cry, O city: all Philistia is thrown down: for a smoke shall come from the north, and there is none that shall escape his troop.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Howle, O gate, crie, O citie: thou whole lande of Palestina art dissolued, for there shall come from the North a smoke, and none shalbe alone, at his time appointed.