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They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD. <a href="/kjv/isaiah/31.htm">King James Bible</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! <a href="/nkjv/isaiah/31.htm">New King James Version</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, And rely on horses, Who trust in chariots because they are many, And in horsemen because they are very strong, But who do not look to the Holy One of Israel, Nor seek the LORD! <a href="/nasb_/isaiah/31.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help And rely on horses, And trust in chariots because they are many And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD! <a href="/nasb/isaiah/31.htm">NASB 1995</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help And rely on horses, And trust in chariots because they are many And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD! <a href="/nasb77/isaiah/31.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, And rely on horses, And trust in chariots because they are many, And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek the LORD! <a href="/lsb/isaiah/31.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help And rely on horses, And trust in chariots because they are many And in horsemen because they are very mighty, But they do not regard at the Holy One of Israel, nor seek Yahweh! <a href="/amp/isaiah/31.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Woe (judgment is coming) to those who go down to Egypt for help, Who rely on horses And trust in chariots because they are many, And in horsemen because they are very strong, But they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, nor seek and consult the LORD! <a href="/csb/isaiah/31.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and who depend on horses! They trust in the abundance of chariots and in the large number of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel, and they do not seek the LORD. <a href="/hcsb/isaiah/31.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and who depend on horses! They trust in the abundance of chariots and in the large number of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel and they do not seek the LORD&#8217s help. <a href="/asv/isaiah/31.htm">American Standard Version</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, and trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek Jehovah! <a href="/cev/isaiah/31.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You are in for trouble if you go to Egypt for help, or if you depend on an army of chariots or a powerful cavalry. Instead you should depend on and trust the holy LORD God of Israel. <a href="/erv/isaiah/31.htm">English Revised Version</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, and stay on horses; and trust in chariots, because they are many, and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! <a href="/gwt/isaiah/31.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> How horrible it will be for those who go to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who depend on many chariots, who depend on very strong war horses. They don't look to the Holy One of Israel. They don't seek the LORD. <a href="/gnt/isaiah/31.htm">Good News Translation</a> Those who go to Egypt for help are doomed! They are relying on Egypt's vast military strength--horses, chariots, and soldiers. But they do not rely on the LORD, the holy God of Israel, or ask him for help. <a href="/isv/isaiah/31.htm">International Standard Version</a> "How terrible it will be for those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the chariot, because there are so many, and in charioteers, because they are so strong— but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or seek the LORD! <a href="/msb/isaiah/31.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in their abundance of chariots and in their multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD. <a href="/net/isaiah/31.htm">NET Bible</a> Those who go down to Egypt for help are as good as dead, those who rely on war horses, and trust in Egypt's many chariots and in their many, many horsemen. But they do not rely on the Holy One of Israel and do not seek help from the LORD. <a href="/nheb/isaiah/31.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, and trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but they do not look to the Holy One of Israel, and they do not seek the LORD. <a href="/wbt/isaiah/31.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and rely on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not to the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! <a href="/web/isaiah/31.htm">World English Bible</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, and rely on horses, and trust in chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are very strong, but they don’t look to the Holy One of Israel, and they don’t seek Yahweh! <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/isaiah/31.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Woe [to] those going down to Egypt for help, "" And [who] lean on horses, "" And trust on chariots, because [they are] many, "" And on horsemen, because [they are] very strong, "" And have not looked on the Holy One of Israel, "" And have not sought YHWH. <a href="/ylt/isaiah/31.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Woe to those going down to Egypt for help, And on horses lean, And trust on chariots, because many, And on horsemen, because very strong, And have not looked on the Holy One of Israel, And Jehovah have not sought. <a href="/slt/isaiah/31.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Wo to those going down to Egypt for help; and they will look upon horses, and trust upon chariots, because they are many; and upon horsemen because they were strong greatly; and they looked not upon the Holy One of Israel, and sought not Jehovah.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/isaiah/31.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> WOE to them that go down to Egypt for help, trusting in horses, and putting their confidence in chariots, because they me many: and in horsemen, because they me very strong: and have not trusted in the Holy One of Israel, and have not sought after the Lord. <a href="/cpdv/isaiah/31.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Woe to those who descend into Egypt for assistance, hoping in horses, and putting their trust in four-horse chariots because they are many, and in horsemen because they are exceedingly strong. And they have not believed in the Holy One of Israel, and they have not sought the Lord. <a href="/nabre/isaiah/31.htm">New American Bible</a> Ah! Those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses; Who put their trust in chariots because of their number, and in horsemen because of their combined power, But look not to the Holy One of Israel nor seek the LORD! <a href="/nrsvce/isaiah/31.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Alas for those who go down to Egypt for help and who rely on horses, who trust in chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or consult the LORD!<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/isaiah/31.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> WOE to those who go down to Egypt for help and trust in horses and rely on chariots because they are many, and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they do not trust in the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! <a href="/hpbt/isaiah/31.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Woe to those who go down to Egypt to be helped, and they trust upon horses, and they trust upon many chariots and upon horsemen, because they are very strong, and they have not trusted on The Holy One of Israel, and they have not sought LORD JEHOVAH!<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/isaiah/31.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, And rely on horses, And trust in chariots, because they are many, And in horsemen, because they are exceeding mighty; But they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, Neither seek the LORD! <a href="/sep/isaiah/31.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help, who trust in horses and chariots, for they are many; and in horses, which are a great multitude; and have not trusted in the Holy One of Israel, and have not sought the Lord. <a href="/parallel/isaiah/31-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xv9bHT-nr9s?start=6534" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/isaiah/31.htm">Woe to Those Who Rely on Egypt</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/1945.htm" title="1945: hō·w (Interjection) -- Ah! alas! ha! A prolonged form of how; oh!">Woe</a> <a href="/hebrew/3381.htm" title="3381: hay·yō·rə·ḏîm (Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To come or go down, descend. ">to those who go down</a> <a href="/hebrew/4714.htm" title="4714: miṣ·ra·yim (N-proper-fs) -- A son of Ham, also his desc. and their country in N.W. Africa. Dual of matsowr; Mitsrajim, i.e. Upper and Lower Egypt.">to Egypt</a> <a href="/hebrew/5833.htm" title="5833: lə·‘ez·rāh (Prep-l:: N-fs) -- Help, helper, assistance. Or mezrath; feminine of ezer; aid.">for help,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8172.htm" title="8172: yiš·šā·‘ê·nū (V-Nifal-Imperf-3mp) -- To lean, support oneself. A primitive root; to support one's self.">who rely</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">on</a> <a href="/hebrew/5483.htm" title="5483: sū·sîm (N-mp) -- A swallow, swift (type of bird). Or cuc; from an unused root meaning to skip; a horse; also a swallow.">horses,</a> <a href="/hebrew/982.htm" title="982: way·yiḇ·ṭə·ḥū (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp) -- To trust. A primitive root; properly, to hie for refuge; figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure.">who trust</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">in</a> <a href="/hebrew/7227.htm" title="7227: rāḇ (Adj-ms) -- Much, many, great. By contracted from rabab; abundant.">their abundance</a> <a href="/hebrew/7393.htm" title="7393: re·ḵeḇ (N-ms) -- From rakab; a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e. The upper millstone.">of chariots</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: wə·‘al (Conj-w:: Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">and in</a> <a href="/hebrew/3966.htm" title="3966: mə·’ōḏ (Adv) -- Muchness, force, abundance. From the same as 'uwd; properly, vehemence, i.e. vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc.">their multitude</a> <a href="/hebrew/6105.htm" title="6105: ‘ā·ṣə·mū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- A primitive root; to bind fast, i.e. Close; intransitively, to be powerful or numerous; denominatively to crunch the bones."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6571.htm" title="6571: pā·rā·šîm (N-mp) -- A steed, a driver, cavalry. From parash; a steed (compare cuwc); also a driver, i.e. cavalry.">of horsemen.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">They do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/8159.htm" title="8159: šā·‘ū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- A primitive root; to gaze at or about; by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed or bewildered.">look</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/6918.htm" title="6918: qə·ḏō·wōš (Adj-msc) -- Sacred, holy. Or qadosh; from qadash; sacred; God, an angel, a saint, a sanctuary.">the Holy</a> <a href="/hebrew/3478.htm" title="3478: yiś·rā·’êl (N-proper-ms) -- From sarah and 'el; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also of his posterity.">One of Israel;</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: wə·’eṯ- (Conj-w:: DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">they do not</a> <a href="/hebrew/1875.htm" title="1875: ḏā·rā·šū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- A primitive root; properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow; by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship.">seek</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD.</a> 2Yet He too is wise and brings disaster; He does not call back His words. He will rise up against the house of the wicked and against the allies of evildoers.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/jeremiah/17-5.htm">Jeremiah 17:5</a> This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes mere flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD. <a href="/psalms/20-7.htm">Psalm 20:7</a> Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. <a href="/hosea/7-11.htm">Hosea 7:11</a> So Ephraim has become like a silly, senseless dove—calling out to Egypt, then turning to Assyria. <a href="/hosea/5-13.htm">Hosea 5:13</a> When Ephraim saw his sickness and Judah his wound, then Ephraim turned to Assyria and sent to the great king. But he cannot cure you or heal your wound. <a href="/2_kings/18-21.htm">2 Kings 18:21</a> Look now, you are trusting in Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff that will pierce the hand of anyone who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him. <a href="/ezekiel/29-6.htm">Ezekiel 29:6-7</a> Then all the people of Egypt will know that I am the LORD. For you were only a staff of reeds to the house of Israel. / When Israel took hold of you with their hands, you splintered, tearing all their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke, and their backs were wrenched. <a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Isaiah 30:1-3</a> “Woe to the rebellious children,” declares the LORD, “to those who carry out a plan that is not Mine, who form an alliance, but against My will, heaping up sin upon sin. / They set out to go down to Egypt without asking My advice, to seek shelter under Pharaoh’s protection and take refuge in Egypt’s shade. / But Pharaoh’s protection will become your shame, and the refuge of Egypt’s shade your disgrace. <a href="/isaiah/36-6.htm">Isaiah 36:6</a> Look now, you are trusting in Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff that will pierce the hand of anyone who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him. <a href="/deuteronomy/17-16.htm">Deuteronomy 17:16</a> But the king must not acquire many horses for himself or send the people back to Egypt to acquire more horses, for the LORD has said, ‘You are never to go back that way again.’ <a href="/2_chronicles/16-7.htm">2 Chronicles 16:7-9</a> At that time Hanani the seer came to King Asa of Judah and told him, “Because you have relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Aram has escaped from your hand. / Were not the Cushites and Libyans a vast army with many chariots and horsemen? Yet because you relied on the LORD, He delivered them into your hand. / For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war.” <a href="/isaiah/20-5.htm">Isaiah 20:5-6</a> Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed. / And on that day the dwellers of this coastland will say, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope, those to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?’” <a href="/isaiah/30-7.htm">Isaiah 30:7</a> Egypt’s help is futile and empty; therefore I have called her Rahab Who Sits Still. <a href="/isaiah/2-22.htm">Isaiah 2:22</a> Put no more trust in man, who has only the breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he? <a href="/isaiah/57-9.htm">Isaiah 57:9</a> You went to Molech with oil and multiplied your perfumes. You have sent your envoys a great distance; you have descended even to Sheol itself. <a href="/isaiah/10-20.htm">Isaiah 10:20</a> On that day the remnant of Israel and the survivors of the house of Jacob will no longer depend on him who struck them, but they will truly rely on the LORD, the Holy One of Israel.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not to the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!to them<a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Isaiah 30:1-7</a> Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: … <a href="/isaiah/36-6.htm">Isaiah 36:6</a> Lo, thou trustest in the staff of this broken reed, on Egypt; whereon if a man lean, it will go into his hand, and pierce it: so is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all that trust in him.<a href="/isaiah/57-9.htm">Isaiah 57:9</a> And thou wentest to the king with ointment, and didst increase thy perfumes, and didst send thy messengers far off, and didst debase thyself even unto hell.stay on horses<a href="/isaiah/30-16.htm">Isaiah 30:16</a> But ye said, No; for we will flee upon horses; therefore shall ye flee: and, We will ride upon the swift; therefore shall they that pursue you be swift.<a href="/isaiah/36-9.htm">Isaiah 36:9</a> How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?<a href="/deuteronomy/17-16.htm">Deuteronomy 17:16</a> But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way.the look<a href="/isaiah/5-12.htm">Isaiah 5:12</a> And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.<a href="/isaiah/17-7.htm">Isaiah 17:7,8</a> At that day shall a man look to his Maker, and his eyes shall have respect to the Holy One of Israel… <a href="/isaiah/22-11.htm">Isaiah 22:11</a> Ye made also a ditch between the two walls for the water of the old pool: but ye have not looked unto the maker thereof, neither had respect unto him that fashioned it long ago.neither<a href="/isaiah/9-13.htm">Isaiah 9:13</a> For the people turneth not unto him that smiteth them, neither do they seek the LORD of hosts.<a href="/isaiah/64-7.htm">Isaiah 64:7</a> And there is none that calleth upon thy name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee: for thou hast hid thy face from us, and hast consumed us, because of our iniquities.<a href="/daniel/9-13.htm">Daniel 9:13</a> As it is written in the law of Moses, all this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer before the LORD our God, that we might turn from our iniquities, and understand thy truth.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/isaiah/22-18.htm">Chariots</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-7.htm">Egypt</a> <a href="/isaiah/26-15.htm">Exceeding</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-19.htm">Help</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-29.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/isaiah/28-28.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-16.htm">Horses</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-29.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-29.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-12.htm">Rely</a> <a href="/isaiah/29-15.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-2.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-15.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Woe</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/isaiah/36-9.htm">Chariots</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-6.htm">Egypt</a> <a href="/isaiah/47-9.htm">Exceeding</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-2.htm">Help</a> <a href="/isaiah/35-8.htm">Holy</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-8.htm">Horsemen</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-3.htm">Horses</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-6.htm">Israel</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-8.htm">Mighty</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-5.htm">Rely</a> <a href="/isaiah/34-16.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-9.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/isaiah/32-17.htm">Trust</a> <a href="/isaiah/33-1.htm">Woe</a><div class="vheading2">Isaiah 31</div>1. <a href="/isaiah/31-1.htm">The prophet shows the folly and danger of trusting Egypt, and forsaking God</a> 6. <a href="/isaiah/31-6.htm">He exhorts to conversion</a> 8. <a href="/isaiah/31-8.htm">He shows the fall of Assyria</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/isaiah/31.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/isaiah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/isaiah/31.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help This phrase serves as a warning against seeking alliances with foreign powers instead of trusting in God. Historically, Egypt was a powerful nation known for its military strength and resources. In the context of Isaiah, the Israelites were tempted to seek Egypt's help against the Assyrian threat. This reflects a lack of faith in God's protection and provision, as seen in previous instances where Israel relied on God for deliverance, such as the Exodus (Exodus 14). The "woe" indicates impending judgment for this misplaced trust.who rely on horses Horses were a symbol of military power and might in ancient times. The reliance on horses signifies a dependence on human strength and military capabilities rather than divine intervention. <a href="/deuteronomy/17-16.htm">Deuteronomy 17:16</a> warns Israel's kings not to accumulate horses, especially from Egypt, highlighting the danger of relying on military power instead of God. This reliance contrasts with the biblical theme of God as the ultimate source of strength and victory (<a href="/psalms/20-7.htm">Psalm 20:7</a>).who trust in their abundance of chariots Chariots were advanced military technology in the ancient Near East, representing security and power. Trusting in chariots implies a focus on material and technological means for protection. This is contrary to the biblical teaching that true security comes from God alone (<a href="/psalms/33-16.htm">Psalm 33:16-17</a>). The abundance of chariots suggests a false sense of security and self-reliance, which is condemned throughout scripture.and in their multitude of horsemen The multitude of horsemen further emphasizes reliance on military might and numbers. This reflects a common human tendency to trust in numerical superiority and human resources. However, biblical narratives, such as Gideon's victory with a small army (Judges 7), demonstrate that God often works through weakness to show His power. The emphasis on human strength is a recurring theme of misplaced trust.They do not look to the Holy One of Israel This phrase highlights the spiritual failure of the people. The "Holy One of Israel" is a title for God that emphasizes His uniqueness, holiness, and covenant relationship with Israel. By not looking to Him, the Israelites are neglecting their covenant obligations and failing to recognize God's sovereignty and ability to save. This neglect is a recurring issue in Israel's history, leading to various judgments and calls for repentance (<a href="/isaiah/1-4.htm">Isaiah 1:4</a>).they do not seek the LORD Seeking the LORD involves turning to Him in faith, prayer, and obedience. The failure to seek God indicates a spiritual apathy and rebellion against His authority. Throughout scripture, seeking God is associated with blessing and deliverance (<a href="/2_chronicles/7-14.htm">2 Chronicles 7:14</a>, <a href="/jeremiah/29-13.htm">Jeremiah 29:13</a>). This phrase underscores the importance of a relationship with God and the consequences of neglecting it. The call to seek the LORD is a central theme in the prophetic literature, urging a return to faithfulness and trust in God alone.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/e/egypt.htm">Egypt</a> A powerful nation known for its military strength and chariots. In the context of Isaiah, Egypt represents reliance on worldly power rather than on God. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_holy_one_of_israel.htm">The Holy One of Israel</a> A title for God, emphasizing His holiness and unique relationship with Israel. It underscores the importance of seeking God rather than earthly powers. 3. <a href="/topical/i/isaiah.htm">Isaiah</a> A prophet in the 8th century BC who warned the Israelites about the consequences of their lack of faith and reliance on foreign powers. 4. <a href="/topical/j/judah.htm">Judah</a> The southern kingdom of Israel, which was tempted to seek military alliances with Egypt instead of trusting in God. 5. <a href="/topical/c/chariots_and_horsemen.htm">Chariots and Horsemen</a> Symbols of military might and human strength, which the Israelites were tempted to trust instead of God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/r/reliance_on_god_vs._worldly_powers.htm">Reliance on God vs. Worldly Powers</a> The verse warns against placing trust in human strength and resources instead of God. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance and provision first. <a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_misplaced_trust.htm">The Danger of Misplaced Trust</a> Trusting in worldly powers can lead to spiritual downfall. True security comes from faith in God, not in material or military strength. <a href="/topical/s/seeking_god_in_times_of_trouble.htm">Seeking God in Times of Trouble</a> In times of crisis, believers should turn to God for help and guidance, rather than seeking solutions that exclude Him. <a href="/topical/t/the_holiness_of_god.htm">The Holiness of God</a> Recognizing God as the "Holy One of Israel" reminds us of His unique power and authority. Our trust should be in His holiness and righteousness. <a href="/topical/f/faith_over_fear.htm">Faith Over Fear</a> Fear can drive us to seek security in the wrong places. Faith in God provides peace and assurance, even in uncertain times.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_isaiah_31.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Isaiah 31</a> <a href="/q/how_to_trust_god_over_egypt's_might.htm">In Isaiah 31:1, how can we trust in God’s power over Egypt’s military might when historical records often highlight Egypt’s formidable chariots and armies? </a> <a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_isaiah_31_with_god's_use_of_pagan_nations.htm">How do we reconcile Isaiah 31's call to trust God over foreign alliances with other passages where God uses pagan nations for His purposes?</a> <a href="/q/is_there_proof_of_god's_protection_in_isaiah_31_5.htm">In Isaiah 31:5, the idea of God defending Jerusalem “like birds hovering” seems miraculous—where is the historical or archaeological proof that such protection ever occurred? </a> <a href="/q/jeremiah_42__aligns_with_god's_teachings.htm">Jeremiah 42 (overall): How do the warnings and outcomes in this chapter align with other biblical teachings on God’s protection and judgment, and are there any inconsistencies?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/isaiah/31.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>XXXI.(1) Woe to them that go down . . .--The Egyptian alliance was, of course, the absorbing topic of the time, and Isaiah returns to it yet again. As in <a href="/isaiah/30-16.htm" title="But you said, No; for we will flee on horses; therefore shall you flee: and, We will ride on the swift; therefore shall they that pursue you be swift.">Isaiah 30:16</a>, the princes of Judah were attracted by the prospect of strengthening themselves in their weakest point, and reinforcing the cavalry of Judah, which could hardly be mentioned by an Assyrian ambassador without a smile (<a href="/isaiah/36-9.htm" title="How then will you turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put your trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?">Isaiah 36:9</a>), with an Egyptian contingent. Isaiah once more condemns this as trusting in an "arm of flesh "instead of in the "Holy One of Israel."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/isaiah/31.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 1-3. - A FURTHER WARNING AGAINST SEEKING THE ALLIANCE OF EGYPT. This prophecy seems to be quite independent of the last (<a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Isaiah 30:1-7</a>). It may have been given earlier or later. The chief point brought out, which had not distinctly appeared previously, is the value set on the horses and chariots of Egypt in the conflict with Assyria (comp. <a href="/2_kings/18-24.htm">2 Kings 18:24</a>). Verse 1. - Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help (comp. <a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Isaiah 30:1, 2</a>; and see also the earlier prophecy, <a href="/isaiah/20-2.htm">Isaiah 20:2-6</a>). The examples of Samaria, Gaza, and Ashdod might well have taught the lesson of distrust of Egypt, without any Divine warnings (see G. Smith's 'Eponym Canon,' pp. 125-131). But the Jews were infatuated, and relied on Egypt despite her previous failures to give effective aid. And stay on horses. The Assyrian cavalry was very numerous, and very efficient. It is often represented on the monuments. Egyptian cavalry, on the other hand, is not represented at all; and it may be questioned whether, in the early times, the Egyptian war-horses were not entirely employed in the chariot-service (see 'Pulpit Commentary' on Exodus, p. 321). The later dynasties of Egyptian kings, however, employed cavalry, as appears from <a href="/2_chronicles/12-3.htm">2 Chronicles 12:3</a>; Herod., 2:162; 'Records of the Past,' vol. it. pp. 68, 70, 72, etc. And trust in chariots, because they are many. The large number of the chariots maintained by the Pharaohs is abundantly evidenced. Diodorus assigns to Sesostris twenty-seven thousand (1. 54, § 4). This is, no doubt, an exaggeration; but the six hundred of the Pharaoh of the Exodus (<a href="/exodus/14-7.htm">Exodus 14:7</a>), and even the one thousand two hundred of Shishak(<a href="/2_chronicles/12-3.htm">2 Chronicles 12:3</a>) are moderate computations, quite in accord with the monuments, and with all that we otherwise know of Egyptian warfare. Egypt exported chariots to the neighboring countries (<a href="/1_kings/10-29.htm">1 Kings 10:29</a>), and was at this time the only power which seemed capable of furnishing such a chariot-force as could hope to contend on tolerably even terms with the force of Assyria. They look not unto the Holy One of Israel (comp. <a href="/isaiah/30-11.htm">Isaiah 30:11, 12</a>). The trust in the Egyptian alliance was accompanied by a distrust of Jehovah and his power, and a disinclination to look to him for aid. <a href="/commentaries/isaiah/31-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Woe ה֣וֹי (hō·w) Interjection <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1945.htm">Strong's 1945: </a> Ah! alas! ha! to those who go down הַיֹּרְדִ֤ים (hay·yō·rə·ḏîm) Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3381.htm">Strong's 3381: </a> To come or go down, descend to Egypt מִצְרַ֙יִם֙ (miṣ·ra·yim) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4714.htm">Strong's 4714: </a> Egypt -- a son of Ham, also his descendants and their country in Northwest Africa for help, לְעֶזְרָ֔ה (lə·‘ez·rāh) Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5833.htm">Strong's 5833: </a> Help, helper, assistance who rely יִשָּׁעֵ֑נוּ (yiš·šā·‘ê·nū) Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8172.htm">Strong's 8172: </a> To lean, support oneself on עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against horses, סוּסִ֖ים (sū·sîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5483.htm">Strong's 5483: </a> A swallow, swift (type of bird) who trust וַיִּבְטְח֨וּ (way·yiḇ·ṭə·ḥū) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_982.htm">Strong's 982: </a> To trust, be confident, sure in עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against their abundance רָ֗ב (rāḇ) Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7227.htm">Strong's 7227: </a> Much, many, great of chariots רֶ֜כֶב (re·ḵeḇ) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7393.htm">Strong's 7393: </a> A vehicle, a team, cavalry, a rider, the upper millstone and in וְעַ֤ל (wə·‘al) Conjunctive waw | Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against their multitude מְאֹ֔ד (mə·’ōḏ) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3966.htm">Strong's 3966: </a> Vehemence, vehemently, wholly, speedily of horsemen. פָּֽרָשִׁים֙ (pā·rā·šîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6571.htm">Strong's 6571: </a> A steed, a driver, cavalry They do not וְלֹ֤א (wə·lō) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no look שָׁעוּ֙ (šā·‘ū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8159.htm">Strong's 8159: </a> To gaze at, about, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed, bewildered to עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against the Holy קְד֣וֹשׁ (qə·ḏō·wōš) Adjective - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6918.htm">Strong's 6918: </a> Sacred, God, an angel, a saint, a sanctuary One of Israel; יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (yiś·rā·’êl) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3478.htm">Strong's 3478: </a> Israel -- 'God strives', another name of Jacob and his desc they do not לֹ֥א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no seek דָרָֽשׁוּ׃ (ḏā·rā·šū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1875.htm">Strong's 1875: </a> To tread, frequent, to follow, to seek, ask, to worship the LORD. יְהוָ֖ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/isaiah/31-1.htm">Isaiah 31:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/isaiah/31-1.htm">OT Prophets: Isaiah 31:1 Woe to those who go down (Isa Isi Is)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/isaiah/30-33.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Isaiah 30:33"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Isaiah 30:33" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/isaiah/31-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Isaiah 31:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Isaiah 31:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>