Isaiah 13:3

“I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, even them that rejoice in my highness.”

Context:The book of Isaiah is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. It contains prophecies given by the prophet Isaiah, who was called to proclaim God’s messages to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. Isaiah’s prophecies cover a wide range of themes, including judgment, redemption, and the coming Messiah.

• Historical Context:In the preceding chapters, Isaiah delivers prophecies concerning various nations, including Babylon. In Isaiah 13, the focus shifts to Babylon, a powerful empire that would eventually conquer and exile Judah. This chapter is commonly referred to as the “Oracle concerning Babylon.”
• God’s Command:In Isaiah 13:3, God declares that He has commanded His sanctified ones or consecrated ones for His anger. The term “sanctified ones” refers to the armies that God has set apart for His purpose. In this context, it specifically refers to the Medes and Persians, whom God would use as instruments of His judgment against Babylon. God had appointed and called them for the task of executing His wrath upon Babylon.
• God’s Anger and Judgment:The phrase “for mine anger” signifies God’s righteous anger and His plan to bring judgment upon Babylon. The Babylonian Empire had become a symbol of human arrogance, idolatry, and oppression, and God decided to intervene to punish them for their wickedness.
• Rejoicing in God’s Highness:The latter part of the verse mentions “them that rejoice in my highness.” This refers to the Medes and Persians, whom God called to execute His judgment on Babylon. They rejoiced in God’s highness or exalted position, recognizing that God’s sovereignty was at work through them. The fall of Babylon would ultimately demonstrate God’s supremacy over the nations and fulfill His purposes.