Tyndale Open Study NotesIsaiah 31

Isaiah delivered another vision regarding Judah’s negotiations with Egypt, which probably took place in 705–701 BC. During that time, the conquering Assyrians were on the move, threatening Judah. At first, Hezekiah tried political and military means to avert being totally conquered (see 2 Kings 18:13–16).

• Woe: This is the fifth of the six woes (see study note on Isaiah 28:1–33:24).

• seek the LORD: This suggests seeking God's guidance with a worshipful attitude (see Deuteronomy 4:29; Psalm 105:3–4).

This prophecy concerned God’s protection of Jerusalem and its rescue from the Assyrians.

• princes will panic: This happened when Sennacherib ran to Nineveh after God destroyed 185,000 troops (see Isaiah 37:36–37).

• God was the fire or flame that would consume Assyria.