Isaiah 19:11-13

11-13. Princes of Zoan “Zoan,” the ancient Tanis, the present Tsan, was the capital of the northeastern kingdom, as Noph, (Isaiah 19:13,) or Memphis, was of Central Egypt. These are representative cities for all Egypt in this prophecy. Pharaoh was a name, not of a person but of the royal house, personified in the ruling head at the time. His princes or counsellers are a stupified cabinet in these prophetic times, though they boast royal descent and great wisdom. See Herodotus. 2:141. They were the priestly caste out of which kings were chosen.

Where are they A sarcastic asking what they amount to as pretended wise-men.

Let them know If they cannot tell, then let them learn from the Lord of hosts, and so obtain certain knowledge what is designed upon Egypt. In themselves the whole priestly class are very fools.

The stay of the tribes Literally, the corner-stone of her tribes. Still the priestly class is meant. They probably assured safety as against Assyria, or as against their only dreaded foe in the far northeast.