Isaiah 28:2
Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand.
Isaiah 28:2 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the Lord is described as having a mighty and strong one, symbolizing his power and authority over the forces of nature. The imagery used here compares the Lord's might to a tempest of hail, a destroying storm, and a flood of mighty waters overflowing. These powerful elements represent the Lord's ability to bring about destruction and upheaval on a grand scale. The reference to casting down to the earth with the hand implies a swift and decisive action by the Lord, showcasing his ability to bring about judgment and punishment upon those who have gone astray. This verse serves as a reminder of the Lord's sovereignty and the consequences of going against his will. It emphasizes the importance of obedience and reverence towards the divine power of the Lord.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to note the vivid imagery used to describe the power of the Lord. The verse portrays the Lord as having a mighty and strong one, likened to a tempest of hail, a destroying storm, and a flood of mighty waters overflowing. This imagery emphasizes the overwhelming force and destructive power at the Lord's disposal. It highlights the idea that God's strength and judgment are unmatched and can easily cast down the wicked to the earth with a mere hand gesture. This verse serves as a reminder of the omnipotence and sovereignty of God, showcasing His ability to bring about swift and decisive justice. It also conveys the idea of divine retribution for those who oppose His will, offering a warning to those who stray from righteousness. Overall, this verse illustrates the awe-inspiring power of the Lord and reinforces the belief in His ultimate authority over all creation.
Isaiah 28:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one; as a tempest of hail, a destroying storm, as a tempest of mighty waters overflowing, will he cast down to the earth with the hand.
World English Bible
Behold, the Lord has a mighty and strong one. Like a storm of hail, a destroying storm, and like a storm of mighty waters overflowing, he will cast them down to the earth with his hand.
Douay-Rheims
Behold the Lord is mighty and strong, as a storm of hail: a destroying whirlwind, as the violence of many waters overflowing, and sent forth upon a spacious land.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Beholde, the Lord hath a mightie and strong hoste, like a tempest of haile, and a whirlewinde that ouerthroweth, like a tempest of mightie waters that ouerflowe, which throwe to the ground mightily.