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◄ Isaiah 13:8►

New International Version
Terror will seize them, pain and anguish will grip them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at each other, their faces aflame.

New Living Translation
and people are terrified. Pangs of anguish grip them, like those of a woman in labor. They look helplessly at one another, their faces aflame with fear.

English Standard Version
They will be dismayed: pangs and agony will seize them; they will be in anguish like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at one another; their faces will be aflame.

Berean Standard Bible
Terror, pain, and anguish will seize them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look at one another, their faces flushed with fear.

King James Bible
And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman that travaileth: they shall be amazed one at another; their facesshall be as flames.

New King James Version
And they will be afraid. Pangs and sorrows will take hold ofthem; They will be in pain as a woman in childbirth; They will be amazed at one another; Their faceswill be like flames.

New American Standard Bible
They will be terrified, Pains and anguish will take hold ofthem; They will writhe like a woman in labor, They will look at one another in astonishment, Their faces aflame.

NASB 1995
They will be terrified, Pains and anguish will take hold of them; They will writhe like a woman in labor, They will look at one another in astonishment, Their faces aflame.

NASB 1977
And they will be terrified, Pains and anguish will take hold ofthem; They will writhe like a woman in labor, They will look at one another in astonishment, Their faces aflame.

Legacy Standard Bible
They will be terrified, Pains and labor pangs will take hold ofthem; They will writhe like a woman in labor, They will look at one another in astonishment, Their faces aflame.

Amplified Bible
They [of Babylon] will be shockedand terrified, Pains and anguish will grip them; They will be in pain like a woman in childbirth. They will stare aghastand horrified at one another, Their faces aflame [from the effects of the unprecedented warfare].

Christian Standard Bible
They will be horrified; pain and agony will seize them; they will be in anguish like a woman in labor. They will look at each other, their faces flushed with fear.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
They will be horrified; pain and agony will seize them; they will be in anguish like a woman in labor. They will look at each other, their faces flushed with fear.

American Standard Version
and they shall be dismayed; pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman in travail: they shall look in amazement one at another; their faces shall be faces of flame.

Contemporary English Version
Everyone will tremble with pain like a woman giving birth; they will stare at each other with horror on their faces.

English Revised Version
and they shall be dismayed; pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman in travail: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be faces of flame.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
They'll be terrified. Pain and anguish will seize them. They'll writhe like a woman giving birth to a child. They'll look at one another in astonishment. Their faces will be burning red.

Good News Translation
They will all be terrified and overcome with pain, like the pain of a woman in labor. They will look at each other in fear, and their faces will burn with shame.

International Standard Version
They will be terrified; pain and anguish will seize them; they'll writhe like a woman in labor. They'll look aghast at one another; and their faces will be ablaze with fear.

NET Bible
They panic--cramps and pain seize hold of them like those of a woman who is straining to give birth. They look at one another in astonishment; their faces are flushed red.

New Heart English Bible
They will be dismayed. Pangs and sorrows will seize them. They will be in pain like a woman in labor. They will look in amazement one at another. Their faces will be faces of flame.

Webster's Bible Translation
And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman that travaileth: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be as flames.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
Terror, pain, and anguish will seize them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look at one another, their faces flushed with fear.

World English Bible
They will be dismayed. Pangs and sorrows will seize them. They will be in pain like a woman in labor. They will look in amazement one at another. Their faces will be faces of flame.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And they have been troubled, "" Pains and pangs take them, "" They are pained as a travailing woman, "" A man marvels at his friend, "" The appearance of flames—their faces!

Young's Literal Translation
And they have been troubled, Pains and pangs they take, As a travailing woman they are pained, A man at his friend they marvel, The appearance of flames -- their faces!

Smith's Literal Translation
And they trembled; pains and writhings will lay hold of them; as she bringing forth they will be in pain: they shall wonder a man at his neighbor; their faces the face of flames.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
And shall be broken. Gripings and pains shall take hold of them, they shall be in pain as a woman in labour. Every one shall be amazed at his neighbour, their countenances shall be as faces burnt.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Writhing and pain will seize them. They will be in pain, like a woman in labor. Each one will appear stupefied to his neighbor. Their countenances will be like faces which have been burned up.

New American Bible
and they are terrified, Pangs and sorrows take hold of them, like a woman in labor they writhe; They look aghast at each other, their faces aflame.

New Revised Standard Version
and they will be dismayed. Pangs and agony will seize them; they will be in anguish like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at one another; their faces will be aflame.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
And they shall be afraid; terror and pangs shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman in travail; they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be as flames.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And they shall be troubled, and dizziness and pains as of childbirth shall seize them, and they shall be astonished, man with his fellow man, and their faces are the faces of flames!

OT Translations

JPS Tanakh 1917
And they shall be affrighted; Pangs and throes shall take hold of them; They shall be in pain as a woman in travail; They shall look aghast one at another; Their faces shall be faces of flame.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
The elders shall be troubled, and pangs shall seize them, as of a woman in travail: and they shall mourn one to another, and shall be amazed, and shall change their countenance as a flame.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

An Oracle Concerning Babylon
…7Therefore all hands will fall limp, and every man’s heart will melt.8Terror,pain,and anguish will seize them;they will writhe like a woman in labor.They will look at one another,their faces flushed with fear.9Behold, the Day of the LORD is coming—cruel, with fury and burning anger—to make the earth a desolation and to destroy the sinners within it.…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Jeremiah 30:6
Ask now, and see: Can a male give birth? Why then do I see every man with his hands on his stomach like a woman in labor and every face turned pale?

Nahum 2:10
She is emptied! Yes, she is desolate and laid waste! Hearts melt, knees knock, bodies tremble, and every face grows pale!

Joel 2:6
Nations writhe in horror before them; every face turns pale.

Ezekiel 30:4
A sword will come against Egypt, and there will be anguish in Cush when the slain fall in Egypt, its wealth is taken away, and its foundations are torn down.

Zephaniah 1:14-15
The great Day of the LORD is near—near and coming quickly. Listen, the Day of the LORD! Then the cry of the mighty will be bitter. / That day will be a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness,

Matthew 24:8
All these are the beginning of birth pains.

Revelation 6:15-16
Then the kings of the earth, the nobles, the commanders, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and free man hid in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains. / And they said to the mountains and the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of the One seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb.

Jeremiah 4:31
For I hear a cry like a woman in labor, a cry of anguish like one bearing her first child—the cry of the Daughter of Zion gasping for breath, stretching out her hands to say, “Woe is me, for my soul faints before the murderers!”

Hosea 13:13
Labor pains come upon him, but he is an unwise son. When the time arrives, he fails to present himself at the opening of the womb.

Micah 4:9-10
Why do you now cry aloud? Is there no king among you? Has your counselor perished so that anguish grips you like a woman in labor? / Writhe in agony, O Daughter of Zion, like a woman in labor. For now you will leave the city and camp in the open fields. You will go to Babylon; there you will be rescued; there the LORD will redeem you from the hand of your enemies!

Luke 21:25-26
There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among the nations, bewildered by the roaring of the sea and the surging of the waves. / Men will faint from fear and anxiety over what is coming upon the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

1 Thessalonians 5:3
While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

Jeremiah 6:24
We have heard the report; our hands hang limp. Anguish has gripped us, pain like that of a woman in labor.

Isaiah 21:3
Therefore my body is filled with anguish. Pain grips me, like the pains of a woman in labor. I am bewildered to hear, I am dismayed to see.

Jeremiah 50:43
The king of Babylon has heard the report, and his hands hang limp. Anguish has gripped him, pain like that of a woman in labor.

Treasury of Scripture

And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a woman that travails: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces shall be as flames.

pangs

Isaiah 21:3,4
Therefore are my loins filled with pain: pangs have taken hold upon me, as the pangs of a woman that travaileth: I was bowed down at the hearingof it; I was dismayed at the seeingof it…

Isaiah 26:17
Like as a woman with child,that draweth near the time of her delivery, is in pain,and crieth out in her pangs; so have we been in thy sight, O LORD.

Psalm 48:5,6
They sawit, and so they marvelled; they were troubled,and hasted away…

be amazed one at another.

flames.

Joel 2:6
Before their face the people shall be much pained: all faces shall gather blackness.

Nahum 2:10
She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much painis in all loins, and the faces of them all gather blackness.

Jump to Previous

Affrighted Afraid Aghast Amazed Amazement Anguish Appearance Childbirth Dismayed Faces Fear Flame Flames Friend Full Grip Hearts Hold Labor Marvel Overcome Pain Pained Pains Pangs Seize Sorrows Terrified Throes Travail Travaileth Travailing Troubled Writhe

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Isaiah 13

1.God musters the armies of his wrath
6.He threatens to destroy Babylon by the Medes
19.The desolation of Babylon

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

Terror, pain, and anguish will seize them;
This phrase describes the intense emotional and physical distress that will come upon the people. In the context ofIsaiah 13, this is a prophecy concerning the judgment against Babylon. The imagery of terror and anguish is often used in the Bible to depict the day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment (Joel 2:1-2,Zephaniah 1:14-15). Historically, Babylon was a powerful empire, and its fall would have been a significant event, causing widespread fear and distress among its inhabitants. The use of such language underscores the severity of God's judgment.

they will writhe like a woman in labor.
The comparison to a woman in labor is a common biblical metaphor for sudden and intense pain (Jeremiah 30:6,1 Thessalonians 5:3). This imagery conveys not only the physical agony but also the inevitability and inescapability of the coming judgment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, childbirth was a time of great vulnerability and uncertainty, further emphasizing the helplessness of those experiencing God's wrath. This metaphor also connects to the broader biblical theme of creation and new beginnings, as labor pains precede birth, suggesting that judgment may lead to a new order or restoration.

They will look at one another,
This phrase indicates a communal experience of fear and confusion. In times of crisis, people often seek reassurance from one another, but here, the shared experience only amplifies the terror. This reflects the breakdown of societal structures and the inability of human alliances to provide security against divine judgment. The communal aspect of this fear is reminiscent of other biblical accounts where entire nations or groups face God's wrath, such as the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 10:23).

their faces flushed with fear.
The physical manifestation of fear, with flushed faces, highlights the intensity of the emotion. In biblical times, facial expressions were seen as a reflection of one's inner state (Genesis 4:5-6). The flushing of faces can symbolize shame, panic, or overwhelming dread. This vivid imagery serves to emphasize the totality of the judgment and the complete inability of the people to hide or escape their fear. It also connects to the broader theme of God's sovereignty and the futility of resisting His will, as seen in other prophetic writings (Ezekiel 7:17-18).

Persons / Places / Events

1.Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2.Babylon
The primary subject ofIsaiah 13, Babylon represents a powerful empire known for its wealth and military might. In this chapter, it is the target of God's impending judgment.

3.Day of the Lord
A significant event in biblical prophecy, often associated with God's judgment and wrath upon nations and peoples who oppose Him.

4.Labor Pains
A metaphor used to describe sudden and intense suffering, often associated with the onset of God's judgment.

5.Fear and Anguish
Emotional responses depicted in the prophecy, highlighting the severity of God's judgment on Babylon.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable for those who oppose Him. Just as Babylon faced destruction, so will all who stand against God's righteousness.

The Intensity of God's Wrath
The imagery of labor pains and fear illustrates the intensity and suddenness of God's wrath. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and obedient.

The Call to Repentance
Understanding the severity of God's judgment should lead us to repentance and a renewed commitment to live according to His will.

The Hope of Deliverance
While judgment is certain for the wicked, God's people can find hope in His promises of deliverance and restoration.

Living in Readiness
Believers are called to live in readiness for the "Day of the Lord," maintaining a posture of watchfulness and spiritual preparedness.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Isaiah 13:8?

2.How does Isaiah 13:8 depict the emotional response to God's judgment?

3.What does "pangs and agony" reveal about God's power over nations?

4.How can Isaiah 13:8's imagery deepen our understanding of divine justice?

5.Which New Testament passages echo the themes found in Isaiah 13:8?

6.How should believers respond to God's warnings as seen in Isaiah 13:8?

7.What historical events does Isaiah 13:8 prophesy, and have they been fulfilled?

8.How does Isaiah 13:8 reflect God's judgment and wrath?

9.What is the significance of labor pains imagery in Isaiah 13:8?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Isaiah 13?

11.What are the biblical birth pains?

12.What does 'travail' mean in the Bible?

13.What does "travail" mean in the Bible?

14.How should you handle anger towards God?

What Does Isaiah 13:8 Mean

Terror

Isaiah 13:8 opens with a jarring word: “Terror.” God is describing the sudden, paralyzing dread that will grip Babylon when His judgment falls.

• Terror is not merely psychological; it is a divinely appointed response to divine wrath (Isaiah 2:19;Revelation 6:15-17).

• The same God who comforts His people (Isaiah 41:10) also terrifies the unrepentant, proving His justice.

• Babylon’s coming panic mirrors the fear that descended on Egypt during the plagues (Exodus 12:30-33), underscoring that no nation is beyond God’s reach.

Pain, and anguish will seize them

The verse intensifies: “pain, and anguish will seize them.”

• “Seize” pictures these emotions as hunters capturing prey—inescapable and overpowering (Jeremiah 6:24-25).

• God’s judgments strike both body and soul; physical suffering and inward torment blend together (Luke 21:25-26).

• The Lord foretold similar anguish on Edom (Isaiah 34:7-8) and Moab (Isaiah 15:4-5), showing a consistent pattern: persistent rebellion invites all-encompassing distress.

They will writhe like a woman in labor

Next comes a vivid simile: “They will writhe like a woman in labor.”

• Labor pains are sudden, unavoidable, and unstoppable once begun (Jeremiah 30:6-7).

• Jesus employed the same imagery to describe end-time tribulation (Matthew 24:8), reinforcing the prophetic harmony of Scripture.

• Babylon’s mighty warriors, famed for strength, will double over helplessly—proof that human power collapses before God’s decree (Isaiah 21:3-4).

They will look at one another, their faces flushed with fear

Finally, the verse depicts collective shock: “They will look at one another, their faces flushed with fear.”

• Panic spreads visually; pale, burning faces reveal internal dread (Joel 2:6;Nahum 2:10).

• The once-confident city will search for answers in each other’s eyes and find none (Isaiah 19:3).

• This mutual alarm contrasts sharply with the calm assurance God gives His people, whose faces “are never covered with shame” (Psalm 34:5).

summary

Isaiah 13:8 paints a four-part portrait of Babylon’s downfall: sudden terror, overwhelming anguish, agonizing convulsions, and shared, visible fear. Each phrase layers another stroke of judgment, affirming God’s sovereign control over nations and history. The verse warns every reader that prideful security can vanish in a moment, yet it also highlights the consistent biblical promise that the Lord protects those who trust in Him.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 8. -They shall be afraid; rather,dismayed.Pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; literally,they shall take hold of pangs and sorrows.They shall be amazed; rather,look aghast.Their faces shall be asflames. I know no better explanation than that of Dr. Kay, that a sudden transition is intended flora despondency to extreme excitement.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

Terror,
וְֽנִבְהָ֓לוּ ׀(wə·niḇ·hā·lū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 926:To tremble inwardly, be, alarmed, agitated, to hasten anxiously

pain,
צִירִ֤ים(ṣî·rîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6735:A hinge, a throe, a herald, erranddoer

and anguish
וַֽחֲבָלִים֙(wa·ḥă·ḇā·lîm)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 2256:A rope, a measuring line, a district, inheritance, a noose, a company, a throe, ruin

will seize them;
יֹֽאחֵז֔וּן(yō·ḥê·zūn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | Paragogic nun
Strong's 270:To grasp, take hold, take possession

they will writhe
יְחִיל֑וּן(yə·ḥî·lūn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural | Paragogic nun
Strong's 2342:To twist, whirl, to dance, to writhe in pain, fear, to wait, to pervert

like a woman in labor.
כַּיּוֹלֵדָ֖ה(kay·yō·w·lê·ḏāh)
Preposition-k, Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular
Strong's 3205:To bear young, to beget, medically, to act as midwife, to show lineage

They will look in astonishment at
אֶל־(’el-)
Preposition
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, to

one
אִ֤ישׁ(’îš)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 376:A man as an individual, a male person

another,
רֵעֵ֙הוּ֙(rê·‘ê·hū)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7453:Friend, companion, fellow

their faces
פְּנֵ֥י(pə·nê)
Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440:The face

aflame
לְהָבִ֖ים(lə·hā·ḇîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 3851:A flash, a sharply polished blade, point of a, weapon

with fear.
יִתְמָ֔הוּ(yiṯ·mā·hū)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 8539:To be astounded or dumbfounded

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OT Prophets: Isaiah 13:8 They will be dismayed (Isa Isi Is)