Isaiah 34:15

“There shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate.”

This verse is part of the prophecy found in Isaiah 34, which describes the judgment and destruction that will come upon the nations and the land of Edom. It uses vivid imagery to convey the desolation and abandonment that will befall these areas.

The verse begins by mentioning “the great owl” making her nest. The owl symbolises darkness, desolation, and solitude. In biblical symbolism, owls are often associated with desolate places and spiritual darkness. The mention of the owl making her nest signifies the desolation and abandonment that will come upon the land. It represents a place where life is no longer thriving.

The verse continues to describe the owls laying and hatching, and gathering under her shadow. This imagery paints a picture of the owl as a caretaker, protecting her offspring and providing shelter for them. However, in the context of judgment and destruction, it emphasises the irony that even in the midst of desolation, there will be a preservation of some form of life, albeit in a barren and darkened place.

The latter part of the verse mentions vultures being gathered, each with her mate. Vultures are birds of prey that scavenge on carrion, and they are often associated with death and destruction. The gathering of vultures signifies the complete desolation and devastation that will come upon the land. It depicts a scene where death and decay are prevalent.

Overall, Isaiah 34:15 portrays a bleak and desolate picture, using symbolic language to convey the judgment and destruction that will befall the nations. It emphasises the contrast between life and death, preservation and destruction, and light and darkness. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences that await those who turn away from God and choose a path of rebellion and wickedness.