Jim Gallagher

Isaiah 17:1
“The burden against Damascus.
‘Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city,
And it will be a ruinous heap.’”

Many prophecies had both near and far fulfillment. In other words, the prophet was speaking of events that would transpire in or around his lifetime, as well as foreshadowing future events. It seems clear, Isaiah is doing that here. Since Jehovah is the one true and living God, and not merely the God of Israel, every nation and people will stand before Him to give account for their actions. In addition to explaining the consequences of Israel’s actions, Isaiah goes on to speak to Damascus, Syria, of the judgment that awaits it.

History records the fall of Damascus to the Assyrian forces. This event took place in the mid 700′s B.C. Not only was the city defeated, but the inhabitants were taken as prisoners of war to Assyria. It…