Isaiah

Isaiah 19:11-15

When God confounds human wisdom, even the wise become foolish.

Isaiah 19:11-15 (WEB)

11 The princes of Zoan are utterly foolish. The counsel of the wisest counselors of Pharaoh has become stupid. How do you say to Pharaoh, “I am the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?”

12 Where then are your wise men? Let them tell you now; and let them know what Yahweh of Armies has purposed concerning Egypt.

13 The princes of Zoan have become fools. The princes of Memphis are deceived. They have caused Egypt to go astray, who are the cornerstone of her tribes.

14 Yahweh has mixed a spirit of perverseness in the middle of her; and they have caused Egypt to go astray in all of its works, like a drunken man staggers in his vomit.

15 Neither shall there be any work for Egypt, which head or tail, palm branch or rush, may do.

Central Idea

When God confounds human wisdom, even the wise become foolish.

Authorial Intent

To expose the folly of Egypt’s leaders and show that the LORD has confounded their wisdom as an act of judgment.

Historical Context

Egypt was historically known for its educated priestly class and wise counselors who advised Pharaoh in political and religious matters.

Chapter: Isaiah 19

The Oracle Against Egypt, the Collapse of False Wisdom, and the Healing of the Nations

Isaiah 19 declares that the LORD judges Egypt’s idols, wisdom, economy, and false security, yet his purpose is so merciful and sovereign that Egypt will know him, worship him, be healed by him, and stand with Assyria and Israel as a blessing on the earth.