Isaiah 34:3
Their slain also shall be cast out, and their stink shall come up out of their carcases, and the mountains shall be melted with their blood.
Isaiah 34:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse comes from the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. It describes the consequences that will befall the enemies of God. The phrase "Their slain also shall be cast out, and their stink shall come up out of their carcases" speaks of the defeat and destruction of those who oppose God. Their bodies will be left on the battlefield to decay and rot, symbolizing the utter defeat and humiliation of these enemies. The following imagery, "and the mountains shall be melted with their blood," continues to emphasize the extent of the destruction that will occur. The blood of the defeated enemies will flow in such abundance that it will be as if the mountains themselves are being melted. This verse serves as a warning of the consequences of opposing God and serves as a powerful reminder of His strength and power.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it symbolizes the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. The imagery of corpses being cast out and emitting a foul odor represents the spiritual death and decay that occurs when individuals turn away from God and pursue their own desires. The mention of mountains melting with blood could signify the overwhelming weight of guilt and judgment that sinners will face as a result of their actions. This verse serves as a stark warning about the ultimate fate of those who reject God and choose to live in disobedience. It is a reminder of the destructive power of sin and the importance of seeking forgiveness and redemption through a relationship with God.
Isaiah 34:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
Their slain also shall be cast out, and the stench of their dead bodies shall come up; and the mountains shall be melted with their blood.
World English Bible
Their slain will also be cast out, and the stench of their dead bodies will come up; and the mountains will melt in their blood.
Douay-Rheims
Their slain shall be cast forth, and out of their carcasses shall rise a stink: the mountains shall be melted with their blood.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And their slaine shalbe cast out, and their stincke shall come vp out of their bodies, and the mountaines shalbe melted with their blood.