Isaiah 16:4

Amharic New Standard Translation (አማርኛ አዲሱ መደበኛ ትርጉም) 2005

የሞአብ ስደተኞች በመካከላችሁ ይኑሩ፤ ሊያጠፉአቸው ከሚፈልጉ ወገኖች መጠጊያ ሁኑአቸው።” ጨቋኞች ከእንግዲህ ወዲያ አይኖሩም፤ ያገር መፈራረስም ያከትማል። ወራሪዎችም ይወገዳሉ።

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is speaking and asking Moab to protect His people who have been forced to leave their homes. God promises that the time of oppression will end and asks Moab to provide safety for His outcasts.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing hide and seek, and your friend is hiding but needs a safe place to stay because the seeker is too strong. God is asking another friend, Moab, to let the hiding friends stay safe until it's safe to come out. God promises that the seeker will soon stop looking, and it will be safe again.

Historical Background

Isaiah, the prophet, wrote this verse around 700 BC. The audience was the people of Judah and Moab, a neighboring nation. The verse reflects the turbulent times when Judah faced threats from various enemies and sought protection and alliances.

Living It Out Today

In today’s world, this verse encourages us to offer shelter and support to those who are displaced or oppressed. For example, a community can provide resources and a safe haven for refugees fleeing war-torn regions.

Topics

• protection
• justice
• refuge
• hope
• alliance
• deliverance

Related Verses

• Psalms 94:1-2
• Jeremiah 40:11-12
• Matthew 2:13-15
• Ezekiel 16:7
• Revelation 12:13-16

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the 'spoiler' mentioned in Isaiah 16:4?

The 'spoiler' refers to an enemy or oppressor who threatens the safety and well-being of the people. In this context, God promises to end the oppression.

What does it mean to be a 'covert'?

To be a 'covert' means to provide shelter or protection. God is asking Moab to offer a safe place for the people of Judah who are fleeing from their enemies.

Why is Moab asked to provide refuge?

Moab, being a neighboring nation, is in a position to help. Asking Moab to provide refuge highlights the theme of neighborly love and support during times of crisis.

How does Isaiah 16:4 apply to modern issues?

It applies to issues like offering refuge to refugees and asylum seekers, providing support for those facing oppression or displacement, and fostering communities that are inclusive and protective.