Reading for May 3rd

Read Isaiah 14.1-23. In 14.1-23: A mocking lament for the death of the king of Babylon. In verses 1-2: The Babylonian threat occupies most of chs. 40-55, so this great world power take on symbolic role as the supreme example of oppression. This editorial note provides a summary of the message of hope (chs. 56-66, see also 11.12-16). In verses 3-11: A brillant, mockingh lament for the death of the king of Babylon ironically contrasts the kings power in life and powerlessness in death and celebrates the passing of Babylon as a world power. No ruler is named, and, apart from the introductory heading in v. 4, direct identification with Babylon is lacking. The orginal sunject may be some earlier ruler's death, possibly the Assyrian Shalmaneser V (whose death in 705 occurred during Isiah's ministry and had major repercussions for Judah's political stance). Butthis passge celebrates the downfall of tyranny rather than the death of a specific individual. Sheol (vv. 11, 15) is the mysterius underworld to which spirits descended after death. The spirits of other dead persons rise up in amazement that a figure once so proud and supreme could be brought so low (vv. 16-20). In verses 12-15: The day Star, son of Dawn is the Morning Star (Venus). In verses 16-21: In extensive royal households others sons were usually a threat to a crown prince (see 37-38). Comments or Questions..