13 The oracle about Arabia . In the thickets of Arabia you must spend the night , O caravans of Dedanites . 14 Bring water for the thirsty , O inhabitants of the land of Tema , Meet the fugitive with bread . 15 For they have fled from the swords , From the drawn sword , and from the bent bow And from the press of battle . 16 For thus the Lord said to me, "In a year , as a hired man would count it, all the splendor of Kedar will terminate ; 17 and the remainder of the number of bowmen , the mighty men of the sons of Kedar , will be few ; for the Lord God of Israel has spoken ."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Isaiah 21:13-17
Commentary on Isaiah 21:13-17
(Read Isaiah 21:13-17)
The Arabians lived in tents, and kept cattle. A destroying army shall be brought upon them, and make them an easy prey. We know not what straits we may be brought into before we die. Those may know the want of necessary food who now eat bread to the full. Neither the skill of archers, nor the courage of mighty men, can protect from the judgments of God. That is poor glory, which will thus quickly come to nothing. Thus hath the Lord said to me; and no word of his shall fall to the ground. We may be sure the Strength of Israel will not lie. Happy are those only whose riches and glory are out of the reach of invaders; all other prosperity will speedily pass away.