Verse

Isaiah 5:28

ESV their arrows are sharp, all their bows bent, their horses’ hoofs seem like flint, and their wheels like the whirlwind.
NIV Their arrows are sharp, all their bows are strung; their horses' hooves seem like flint, their chariot wheels like a whirlwind.
NASB Its arrows are sharp and all its bows are bent; The hoofs of its horses seem like flint, and its chariot wheels like a storm wind.
CSB Their arrows are sharpened, and all their bows strung. Their horses' hooves are like flint; their chariot wheels are like a whirlwind.
NLT Their arrows will be sharp and their bows ready for battle. Sparks will fly from their horses’ hooves, and the wheels of their chariots will spin like a whirlwind.
KJV Whose arrows are sharp, and all their bows bent, their horses' hoofs shall be counted like flint, and their wheels like a whirlwind:

What does Isaiah 5:28 mean?

Isaiah is describing the nature of the army coming to bring God's judgment on Judah and Jerusalem. He is likely pointing forward to the attack which came from the Assyrians (2 Kings 24:10–16). Ultimately, the exact identity of the invader is irrelevant. This is punishment from the Lord upon His people. Just as a general "attacks" by sending in troops, God is using an incredibly powerful army to accomplish His will.

This passage has been describing the soldiers of this army as alert and well-equipped for battle (Isaiah 5:27). Now he adds that their arrows and bows are prepared for battle. The hooves of their horses are strong and unbreaking over the many miles toward Jerusalem. The wheels of their chariots spin like the wind as the miles rush pass. The Lord's judgment is coming.
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