Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Isaiah 33:21
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Isaiah33:21
21. there--namely, in Jerusalem.
will be ... rivers--Jehovah will be as a broad river surrounding our city (compare Is 19:6; Na 3:8), and this, too, a river of such a kind as no ship of war can pass (compare Is 26:1). Jerusalem had not the advantage of a river; Jehovah will be as one to it, affording all the advantages, without any of the disadvantages of one.
galley with oars--war vessels of a long shape, and propelled by oars; merchant vessels were broader and carried sail.
gallant--same Hebrew word as for "glorious," previously; "mighty" will suit both places; a ship of war is meant. No "mighty vessel" will dare to pass where the "mighty Lord" stands as our defense.
Jamieson, Fausset and Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, Isaiah 33:21. Public domain.
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