Isaiah 34:7
And the unicorns shall come down with them, and the bullocks with the bulls; and their land shall be soaked with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.
Isaiah 34:7 · King James Version
Meaning
Within the context of the Bible, this verse is found in the book of Isaiah and is a vivid depiction of a scene of divine judgment and destruction. It speaks of a time when God's wrath will pour upon a people or nation, leading to a violent and chaotic aftermath. The mention of unicorns and bullocks underscores the severity and impact of the judgment, symbolizing the complete devastation that will come upon the land. The vivid imagery of blood-soaked land and fat-covered dust conveys the extent of the violence and destruction that will occur, emphasizing the severity of the consequences of disobedience and sin. This verse serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of obedience and righteousness in order to avoid such a fate.
Theological Overview
One of the intriguing elements of this verse is the mention of unicorns, which has led to various theological interpretations and word studies. Some scholars suggest that the term "unicorn" in the Bible may refer to a mythical creature, while others argue that it could be a mistranslation of a now-extinct species of wild ox. The use of poetic language in this verse, with the juxtaposition of unicorns and bullocks, enhances the dramatic effect of the imagery. The mention of blood-soaked land and fat dust symbolizes the severity of the judgment that will befall the enemies of God. The emphasis on blood and fatness may also point to the abundant sacrifices that were carried out in ancient times to atone for sins and seek divine favor. Overall, this verse showcases the vivid language and symbolic richness found throughout the Bible, inviting readers to delve deeper into its meaning and significance.
Isaiah 34:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the wild-oxen shall come down with them, and the bullocks with the bulls: and their land shall be drunken with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.
World English Bible
The wild oxen will come down with them, and the young bulls with the mighty bulls; and their land will be drunken with blood, and their dust made greasy with fat.
Douay-Rheims
And the unicorns shall go down with them, and the bulls with the mighty: their land shall be soaked with blood, and their ground with the fat of fat ones.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the vnicorne shall come downe with them and the heiffers with the bulles, and their lande shalbe drunken with blood, and their dust made fat with fatnesse.