Moreover they that work in fine flax, and they that weave networks, shall be confounded.

ISAIAH 19:9KJV
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Isaiah 19:9 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 19:9 mean?

Isaiah 19:9 says that those who work with fine flax and those who weave networks (likely referring to linen or textile workers) will be put to shame or left confused. The verse points to the downfall of Egypt’s skilled workers as part of a larger judgment.

In this part of Isaiah, the prophet is speaking about Egypt’s future troubles. The verse highlights how even the people who rely on specialized crafts, like making linen from flax and weaving, will suffer when Egypt’s economy collapses. This shows that no part of society, not even skilled artisans, will escape the coming hardship.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 19:9

  • "work" (עָבַד, ʿāvad): This word means to labor or serve, and here it refers specifically to those who make a living by producing fine linen. It emphasizes the everyday workers, not just leaders or rulers.
  • "fine" (שֵׁשׁ, shesh): This word is often used for high-quality linen, showing that the verse is talking about valuable, skilled work, not just any cloth.
  • "flax" (פִּשְׁתָּה, pishtah): Flax is the plant used to make linen, a major Egyptian export. Mentioning flax points to a key part of Egypt’s wealth and trade.
  • "weave" (אָרַג, arag) and "networks" (חֲרָכָה, kharakhah): These words refer to the act of weaving and the products (possibly net-like fabrics or lace). They highlight the skill and detail involved in Egypt’s textile industry.
  • "confounded" (בּוֹשׁ, bosh): This word means to be ashamed, disappointed, or put to confusion. It shows that the workers’ hopes and pride in their craft will be dashed.

Why Isaiah 19:9 matters

  • Isaiah 19:9 makes clear that economic disaster in Egypt will reach all levels, affecting even skilled workers who might otherwise feel secure.
  • The verse connects Egypt’s famous linen industry to the nation’s coming downfall, showing that even its most prized industries will not be spared.
  • By focusing on ordinary workers, Isaiah 19:9 broadens the scope of the prophecy, reminding readers that national crises impact everyone, not just rulers or the wealthy.

Where else these words appear

“weave” Hebrew H707 · used in 13 verses

  • Exodus 28:32 And there shall be an hole in the top of it, in the midst thereof: it shall have a binding of woven work round about the hole of it, as it were the hole of an habergeon, that it be not rent.
  • Judges 16:13 And Delilah said unto Samson, Hitherto thou hast mocked me, and told me lies: tell me wherewith thou mightest be bound. And he said unto her, If thou weavest the seven locks of my head with the web.
  • 1 Chronicles 11:23 And he slew an Egyptian, a man of great stature, five cubits high; and in the Egyptian's hand was a spear like a weaver's beam; and he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear.

“flax” Hebrew H6593 · used in 15 verses

  • Leviticus 13:47 The garment also that the plague of leprosy is in, whether it be a woollen garment, or a linen garment;
  • Deuteronomy 22:11 Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together.
  • Ezekiel 40:3 And he brought me thither, and, behold, there was a man, whose appearance was like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate.

“confounded” Hebrew H954 · used in 100 verses

  • Genesis 2:25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
  • Psalms 109:28 Let them curse, but bless thou: when they arise, let them be ashamed; but let thy servant rejoice.
  • Isaiah 66:5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.