King James Version
What Does Isaiah 10:31 Mean?
“Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.”
Isaiah 10:31 · KJV
Context
29
They are gone over the passage: they have taken up their lodging at Geba; Ramah is afraid; Gibeah of Saul is fled.
30
Lift up thy voice, O daughter of Gallim: cause it to be heard unto Laish, O poor Anathoth. Lift: Heb. Cry shrill with
31
Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.
32
As yet shall he remain at Nob that day: he shall shake his hand against the mount of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.
33
Behold, the Lord, the LORD of hosts, shall lop the bough with terror: and the high ones of stature shall be hewn down, and the haughty shall be humbled.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe flight intensifies: 'Madmenah is removed; the inhabitants of Gebim gather themselves to flee.' Towns are evacuated; populations flee before the advancing army. The Hebrew verb translated 'removed' suggests complete abandonment, not just evacuation. 'Gather themselves' implies desperate assembly of refugees. This picture of displacement and panic represents the human cost of imperial aggression—people uprooted, homes abandoned, lives disrupted. Yet even in this dire situation, God's people should remember: He who allowed this trial will also deliver from it according to His purposes.
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Historical & Cultural Context
Madmenah and Gebim are less certainly identified than other towns in this passage, possibly small settlements that didn't survive into later periods. The pattern of flight before invading armies was common in ancient warfare—civilians fled to fortified cities (like Jerusalem) or to remote areas, hoping to return when armies passed. This forced migration created humanitarian crises: refugee camps, food shortages, disease. The Assyrian policy of mass deportation made such displacements permanent for conquered peoples.
Reflection Questions
- How should believers respond to displacement and refugee crises in light of God's sovereignty and compassion?
- What does the pattern of trial-before-deliverance teach about trusting God's timing?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsנָדְדָ֖ה1 of 5
“is removed”
H5074properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away
יֹשְׁבֵ֥י3 of 5
“the inhabitants”
H3427properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
הֵעִֽיזוּ׃5 of 5
“gather themselves to flee”
H5756to be strong; causatively, to strengthen, i.e., (figuratively) to save (by flight)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Isaiah 10:31 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Isaiah 10:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge