Isaiah 31:1-3

THE FOURTH WOE.

Differently presented, and perhaps better, the same subjects respecting alliance with Egypt are here continued. Perhaps a space of time intervened between the two presentations.

1-3. Stay on horses… trust in chariots Horses abounded in Egypt. Solomon had filled his stables from that country. The ancients thought more of cavalry than of infantry in war. The Hebrews, denied of it by their law, on becoming worldly under the monarchy were distressingly uneasy without cavalry. This gives occasion for the prophet to denounce it as a vain help, and he hurls his woes upon it uncompromisingly. He still preaches dependence alone upon Jehovah their God as a sufficient safety. But the princes did not look to him. Hezekiah himself, good king as he was, was timid, at first sight, of the approaching Assyrian strength upon him. The prophet insists that God knows best whether Judah needs foreign aid; that he has the people in his own guidance and care if they will; that he will discomfit all outside aid, and punish Judah for seeking it; that divine help is indispensable; that Egypt is deceitful, weak, and untrustworthy; and that in depending on such help, both the helper and the helped shall be overthrown.