King James Version

What Does Isaiah 19:9 Mean?

Isaiah 19:9 in the King James Version says “Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded. networks: or, white works” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded. networks: or, white works”

Isaiah 19:9 · KJV

Context

7

The paper reeds by the brooks, by the mouth of the brooks, and every thing sown by the brooks, shall wither, be driven away, and be no more. and be: Heb. and shall not be

8

The fishers also shall mourn, and all they that cast angle into the brooks shall lament, and they that spread nets upon the waters shall languish.

9

Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded. networks: or, white works

10

And they shall be broken in the purposes thereof, all that make sluices and ponds for fish. purposes: Heb. foundations for fish: Heb. of living things

11

Surely the princes of Zoan are fools, the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh is become brutish: how say ye unto Pharaoh, I am the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?

Read Isaiah 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded.' The textile industry fails next. 'Fine flax' (Egyptian linen) was a luxury export. 'Networks' likely refers to fine woven fabrics. 'Confounded' (bosh) means ashamed, disappointed—skilled craftsmen unable to practice their trade experience shame and economic loss. Egypt's famous linen industry depended on flax cultivation requiring irrigation. With water failure, flax crops fail, textile workers lose employment. This demonstrates how agricultural collapse cascades through manufacturing sectors—primary industry failure triggers secondary industry failure. The comprehensive economic devastation illustrates that God's judgments don't merely punish rulers but affect entire societies, teaching the principle that nations' sins produce corporate suffering affecting all strata.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Egyptian linen was renowned throughout the ancient world—fine, white, durable fabric exported regionally. Joseph wore fine linen as vizier (Genesis 41:42); Egyptian mummies were wrapped in linen; priestly garments used Egyptian linen (Exodus 39). The industry employed thousands from farming through weaving. When flax agriculture failed during crisis periods, the entire production chain collapsed—farmers, processors, weavers, merchants all affected. This validated the prophecy's economic domino effect. The luxury nature of fine linen meant its failure particularly affected upper classes and export economy—reducing Egypt's wealth and international prestige. Divine judgment humbled proud Egypt systematically.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do primary industry failures cascade through dependent secondary industries?
  2. What does comprehensive economic collapse teach about the corporate nature of national sin and judgment?
  3. Why do luxury industries' failures particularly affect national prestige and international standing?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וּבֹ֛שׁוּ1 of 6

“shall be confounded”

H954

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

עֹבְדֵ֥י2 of 6

“Moreover they that work”

H5647

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

פִשְׁתִּ֖ים3 of 6

“flax”

H6593

linen (i.e., the thread, as carded)

שְׂרִיק֑וֹת4 of 6

“in fine”

H8305

hetchelling (or combing flax), i.e., (concretely) tow (by extension, linen cloth)

וְאֹרְגִ֖ים5 of 6

“and they that weave”

H707

to plait or weave

חוֹרָֽי׃6 of 6

“networks”

H2355

white linen

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 19:9 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 19:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 27:7Proverbs 7:161 Kings 10:28

Test Your Knowledge

Isaiah 19 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterIsaiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Isaiah 19 with CommentaryAll Isaiah ChaptersComplete Isaiah QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes