Isaiah 31:4
For thus hath the LORD spoken unto me, Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, he will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof.
Isaiah 31:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah depicts a powerful imagery of the Lord coming to the defense of Mount Zion and its people. The comparison is made to a lion and a young lion roaring on its prey unfazed by the multitude of shepherds called forth against it. Just as the lion is unafraid and unshaken by the voices and noise directed towards it, so shall the Lord of hosts come down to fight for Mount Zion. This imagery conveys the idea of strength, protection, and fearlessness in the face of opposition. It serves as a reassurance to the people of Mount Zion that the Lord will be their defender and protector against any threats or challenges they may face. The verse instills a sense of confidence and hope in the divine intervention and protection provided by the Lord of hosts.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of a lion and a young lion roaring on his prey to illustrate the power and fearlessness of the Lord of hosts when He comes down to fight for Mount Zion. The comparison of the Lord to a lion emphasizes His strength and authority in protecting His people against their enemies. The mention of a multitude of shepherds called forth against the lion but failing to intimidate or subdue him highlights the futility of human opposition when God intervenes on behalf of His chosen ones. This passage serves as a reminder of the unwavering protection and deliverance that God provides for His people, especially in times of trouble and conflict. By drawing a parallel between the fierceness of a lion and the decisive action of the Lord in defending His holy mountain, Isaiah conveys the message of God's sovereignty and ultimate victory over all adversaries.
Isaiah 31:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
For thus saith Jehovah unto me, As the lion and the young lion growling over his prey, if a multitude of shepherds be called forth against him, will not be dismayed at their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so will Jehovah of hosts come down to fight upon mount Zion, and upon the hill thereof.
World English Bible
For thus says Yahweh to me, “As the lion and the young lion growling over his prey, if a multitude of shepherds is called together against him, will not be dismayed at their voice, nor abase himself for their noise, so Yahweh of Armies will come down to fight on Mount Zion and on its heights.
Douay-Rheims
For thus saith the Lord to me: Like as the lion roareth, and the lions whelp upon his prey, and when a multitude of shepherds shall come against him, he will not fear at their voice, nor be afraid of their multitude: so shall the Lord of hosts come down to fight upon mount Sion, and upon the hill thereof.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For thus hath the Lord spoken vnto me, As the lyon or lyons whelpe roareth vpon his praye, against whom if a multitude of shepheards be called, hee will not be afraide at their voyce, neither will humble him selfe at their noise: so shall the Lord of hostes come downe to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof.