Isa 14:9-11 | TNotes | STEP | 14:9 The Babylonians saw the place of the dead (Hebrew Sheol ) as a place of no return. • stand up (literally get up from their thrones ): The thrones reflect the Babylonian concept of the life hereafter as a continuation of the same mode of existence as the present life. It appears that the other kings are honoring the great king of Babylon, but the next verses tell a different story.

dRev 18:22►

eIsa 66:24►

‏ Isaiah 14:9-11

14:9 ^a The Babylonians saw the place of the dead (Hebrew Sheol) as a place of no return.

• stand up (literally get up from their thrones): The thrones reflect the Babylonian concept of the life hereafter as a continuation of the same mode of existence as the present life. It appears that the other kings are honoring the great king of Babylon, but the next verses tell a different story.
14:10 ^b weak as we are: The Babylonian king had no power over anyone after death and was unable to leave Sheol. The Israelites will mock this great king who on earth appeared to have no weaknesses.
14:11 ^c Babylon’s might and power and the sound of the harp were ended, and its magnificence was destroyed (see also Rev 18:22 ^d).

• Maggots and worms symbolized death and decomposition (Isa 66:24 ^e).