Isaiah 17:14
And behold at eveningtide trouble; and before the morning he is not. This is the portion of them that spoil us, and the lot of them that rob us.
Isaiah 17:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah serves as a warning of the consequences that await those who bring trouble and harm to others. The verse speaks to the ephemeral nature of their existence, suggesting that they will meet their end swiftly and without warning. The portion of those who spoil and rob others is described as troubled and fleeting, emphasizing the idea that their actions will ultimately lead to their downfall. The verse serves as a reminder that ill-gotten gains and malicious intent will not bring lasting prosperity or fulfillment. It is a cautionary message that highlights the inevitable consequences of exploiting and harming others.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse in Isaiah 17:14 speaks to the fleeting nature of trouble and oppression. The verse describes how trouble comes upon us in the evening, but by morning it is gone. This can be seen as a reminder that challenges and hardships are temporary, and that God has the power to deliver us from our troubles swiftly. The verse also highlights the consequences for those who seek to harm or oppress others. The portion of those who spoil us and rob us is described as being transient and temporary, indicating that ultimately, justice will be served and wrongs will be made right.
Isaiah 17:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
At eventide, behold, terror; [and] before the morning they are not. This is the portion of them that despoil us, and the lot of them that rob us.
World English Bible
At evening, behold, terror! Before the morning, they are no more. This is the portion of those who plunder us, and the lot of those who rob us.
Douay-Rheims
In the time of the evening, behold there shall be trouble: the morning shall come, and he shall not be: this is the portion of them that have wasted us, and the lot of them that spoiled us.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And loe, in the euening there is trouble: but afore the morning it is gone. This is the portion of them that spoyle vs, and the lot of them that robbe vs.