Matthew Poole and continuators on Isaiah 19:1

THE burden of Egypt : Behold the LORD rideth upon a swift cloud , and shall come into Egypt, and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at his presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in the midst of it .

Some Learned men conceive, that what was said more generally and darkly in the foregoing Chapter, is here more particularly and clearly explained to be meant of Egypt; it being usual for the Prophets to mix obscure and plain Passages together, and to clear the one by the other. Others understand that Chapter of Ethiopia, and this of Egypt. But this Controversie must be decided by an exact confideration of all the Passages of the former Chapter.

As a General in the Head of his Army; or, as Judge riding Circuit to execute Judgment.

Which Phrase sheweth, that the Judgment shall come speedily, unexpectedly, and unavoidably. And Clouds being very unusual in Egypt, the Appearance of a Cloud was a kind of Prodigy, and a Prognostick of some grievous Calamity.

From their Seats, and from their former Reputation. Or, shall hake or tremble. So far shall they be from helping the Egypians, as they expect, that they shall tremble for themselves; which divers of the Egyptian Gods, being living Creatures, might properly do.

They shall lose all their ancient Strength and Courage, for which they had been Famous formerly.

Marginal references: Jer. 46. 13. Ezek. 29. & 30.