Joe 2:10-11 | TNotes | STEP | 2:10 The quaking of the earth and the heavens is a typical sign of theophany, an appearance of God (see Exod 19:16-19 ; Isa 13:13 ; Nah 1:5-6 ). The darkening of the sun and moon symbolizes divine judgment (Isa 13:9-11 ).

bExod 19:16-19►

cIsa 13:13►

dNah 1:5-6►

eIsa 13:9-11►

‏ Joel 2:10-11

2:10 ^a The quaking of the earth and the heavens is a typical sign of theophany, an appearance of God (see Exod 19:16-19 ^b; Isa 13:13 ^c; Nah 1:5-6 ^d). The darkening of the sun and moon symbolizes divine judgment (Isa 13:9-11 ^e).
2:11 ^f The Lord is at the head of the column (literally the Lord utters his voice before his army): The coming destruction was not simply an act of nature or the result of human activity, but an act of God.

• This is his mighty army: God executed this judgment.

• Who can possibly survive? Apart from God’s grace and mercy, no one can.