Judgment on Babylon

471 "Come down, virgin daughter of Babylon, and sit in the dust. For your days of sitting on a throne have ended. O daughter of Babylonia, never again will you be the lovely princess, tender and delicate. 2 Take heavy millstones and grind flour. Remove your veil, and strip off your robe. Expose yourself to public view. 3 You will be naked and burdened with shame. I will take vengeance against you without pity." 4 Our Redeemer, whose name is the Lord of Heaven's Armies, is the Holy One of Israel. 5 "O beautiful Babylon, sit now in darkness and silence. Never again will you be known as the queen of kingdoms.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Isaiah 47:1-5

Commentary on Isaiah 47:1-6

(Read Isaiah 47:1-6)

Babylon is represented under the emblem of a female in deep distress. She was to be degraded and endure sufferings; and is represented sitting on the ground, grinding at the handmill, the lowest and most laborious service. God was righteous in his vengeance, and none should interpose. The prophet exults in the Lord of hosts, as the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel. God often permits wicked men to prevail against his people; but those who cruelly oppress them will be punished.