Isaiah 47:2

“Take the millstones, and grind meal: uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh, pass over the rivers.”

Isaiah 47:2 is part of a larger prophecy in the Book of Isaiah, where the prophet speaks against the city of Babylon and its impending destruction. In this particular verse, the language used is symbolic and metaphorical, conveying the humiliation and downfall of Babylon.

The verse begins with the instruction, “Take the millstones, and grind meal.” Millstones were heavy stones used to grind grain into meal or flour. Here, it symbolizes the menial labor or servitude that Babylon would be forced into. This imagery suggests a loss of prestige and power, as the great city would be reduced to toiling in a lowly manner.

The next part of the verse says, “Uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh.” This imagery describes an act of humiliation. In biblical times, a woman’s hair was often regarded as a symbol of beauty and femininity. Uncovering the locks suggests the stripping away of Babylon’s attractiveness and allure. Similarly, the phrase “make bare the leg, uncover the thigh” speaks to the exposure of the body, representing the shame and disgrace that Babylon would experience.

Lastly, the verse concludes with the phrase, “pass over the rivers.” This expression indicates that Babylon’s exile and captivity would extend far beyond its own boundaries. Crossing rivers symbolizes the dispersal of Babylon’s inhabitants and the loss of their homeland.

Overall, Isaiah 47:2 is a prophetic message foretelling the downfall of Babylon. The use of symbolic and metaphorical language conveys the humiliation, degradation, and dispersion that the city would face as a consequence of its arrogance, idolatry, and mistreatment of others. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and justice, as well as a warning against pride and oppression.