READ: Is. 21:6-12
The burden against Dumah. He calls to me out of Seir, ‘Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night?’ – Is. 21:11
On the command of the Lord, Isaiah appoints a watchman on a watchtower to observe the progress of the battle between the nations, including Judah (v.6). Isaiah himself fulfills this command (v.8). He determines that Babylon has fallen (v.9). All the idols of Babylon are destroyed by God (Jer. 51:47,52). For the people of God who have been chastised and purified through this, this is a comforting prophecy (v.10). Redemption is now on the horizon.
Then a divine message comes concerning Duma. Duma represents Edom, the descendants of Esau who live in the Seir mountains. The name Duma means “silence of death,” indicating the spiritual condition of this people. It is silent because death is looming. This people now call out to Isaiah, the watchman: “Watchman, what is left of the night?” (v.11). In other words: how much of the night has passed, is it already dawn? Edom has also been heavily affected by the nations.
Is this question from Edom an expression of despair or a search for God? It is noteworthy that a pagan people are seeking advice from a prophet of God. This has happened before as well: Naaman consulting Elisha. What does the watchman answer? “Morning is coming, but also the night” (v.12). There are different interpretations of this answer. One explanation suggests that with the fall of Babylon, those who seek God will experience the dawn, but for those who try to save themselves, it will become night again. Another interpretation suggests that there will be dawn, enlightenment, but then new battles will follow.
It’s clear that not everyone will experience an immediate time of peace. It’s important to note the closing words of verse 12: “If you will inquire, inquire; return, come back.” The people of godless Edom must turn to the LORD. If they ask and seek Him, they will find Him (Is. 55:6, Jer. 29:13, Zeph. 3:9). Then there will also be dawn for them (Is. 8:20).
When does “the night” end for us?
Singing: Ps. 94:6,7