Egypt’s princes trusted in their own knowledge, but in doing so they led the nation toward ruin.
“The princes of Zoan have acted foolishly, The princes of Memphis are deluded; ...” (v.13). The prophet Isaiah here declares that Egypt’s leadership has abandoned true wisdom, bringing their nation into confusion before the LORD. Zoan, also known as Tanis, was an influential city in northeastern Egypt built by the Hyksos in the Nile Delta. Memphis, located about twenty miles south of modern Cairo on the west bank of the Nile River, served as the capital of Lower Egypt for centuries. Isaiah shows that even such notable centers of power can become misguided when their rulers ignore godly counsel.
In the wider context of Isaiah 19, God pronounces judgment on Egypt, highlighting the failure of its officials. By calling them “foolish” and “deluded,” Isaiah underscores how those who should protect and guide instead lead astray, symbolizing humanity’s tendency to rely on its own prideful solutions (Proverbs 14:12). Historically, these cities of Zoan and Memphis, though central to Egyptian might, could not shield their society from the LORD’s sovereign plan. Their supposed pillars—called “cornerstones” of the tribes—turned into stumbling blocks, reinforcing that any leadership divorced from divine truth ultimately collapses.
Followers of God are reminded throughout Scripture that true wisdom comes from the LORD alone (James 1:5). The leadership faults in Egypt mirror any kingdom or ruler who rejects God’s ways, foreshadowing how He alone holds final authority over all nations (Revelation 11:15).
This verse reminds us that human power and prestige are no substitutes for moral and spiritual discernment.
Set to dark mode
Isaiah 19:13 meaning
“The princes of Zoan have acted foolishly, The princes of Memphis are deluded; ...” (v.13). The prophet Isaiah here declares that Egypt’s leadership has abandoned true wisdom, bringing their nation into confusion before the LORD. Zoan, also known as Tanis, was an influential city in northeastern Egypt built by the Hyksos in the Nile Delta. Memphis, located about twenty miles south of modern Cairo on the west bank of the Nile River, served as the capital of Lower Egypt for centuries. Isaiah shows that even such notable centers of power can become misguided when their rulers ignore godly counsel.
In the wider context of Isaiah 19, God pronounces judgment on Egypt, highlighting the failure of its officials. By calling them “foolish” and “deluded,” Isaiah underscores how those who should protect and guide instead lead astray, symbolizing humanity’s tendency to rely on its own prideful solutions (Proverbs 14:12). Historically, these cities of Zoan and Memphis, though central to Egyptian might, could not shield their society from the LORD’s sovereign plan. Their supposed pillars—called “cornerstones” of the tribes—turned into stumbling blocks, reinforcing that any leadership divorced from divine truth ultimately collapses.
Followers of God are reminded throughout Scripture that true wisdom comes from the LORD alone (James 1:5). The leadership faults in Egypt mirror any kingdom or ruler who rejects God’s ways, foreshadowing how He alone holds final authority over all nations (Revelation 11:15).
This verse reminds us that human power and prestige are no substitutes for moral and spiritual discernment.