Spiritual Gems: Week of December 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026, Isaiah 14-16, Answers

Isaiah 14:1, 2. How did Jehovah make his people “captors of those who had held them captive”? (w06 12/1 p. 10 par. 10)

This prophecy was fulfilled in faithful servants of God such as Daniel, who held a prominent position in Babylon during the Medo-Persian rule; Esther, who became queen of Persia; and Mordecai, who was appointed prime minister of the Persian Empire. In this way, those who had once been captives attained positions of authority in the very lands where they had been taken as slaves and came to give orders to the inhabitants of those nations.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jehovah’s people became “captors of those who had held them captive” when Jehovah elevated loyal servants such as Daniel, Esther, and Mordecai to positions of authority and power within the very empires that had enslaved them. These faithful individuals held very high offices under Medo-Persian rule. As a result, those who had once been taken captive came to give orders and exercise authority over the nations that had previously dominated them.

Jehovah caused his people to move from a state of captivity to one of authority over those who had formerly oppressed them. By elevating faithful servants such as Daniel, Esther, and Mordecai to high-ranking positions in the same empires that had enslaved them under Medo-Persian rule, the Jews came to issue commands to those nations.

The example of Daniel and Esther teaches us that if we are given any position of influence, no matter how small it may seem, we can use it to help others, protect them, and promote true worship rather than focusing solely on personal benefit.

This account teaches me that Jehovah never abandons his faithful servants. Even when it appears that we are at a disadvantage or that others hold the power, Jehovah can use any circumstance to bless us. That is why it is worthwhile to remain loyal and trust in him, even when situations seem unfair.

We learn that Jehovah can use his servants as a powerful witness. Daniel, Esther, and Mordecai did not seek authority, yet Jehovah placed them in those positions to accomplish his purpose. This encourages me to be faithful in small matters, knowing that Jehovah can use our good conduct to positively influence others.

Jehovah caused his people to go from being subjugated to exercising authority over their oppressors in order to fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah 14:1, 2. This was evident when faithful Jews were appointed to high offices within the empires that had previously ruled over them.

Examples of this include Daniel, who was elevated to a high position in Babylon under Medo-Persian rule; Esther, who became queen of Persia; and Mordecai, who was appointed prime minister of the Persian Empire. In this way, these appointments reversed the situation, vindicated Jehovah’s name, and protected the Israelites.

What spiritual gems have you found in this week’s Bible reading?

Isaiah 14:1

This verse shows that Jehovah’s mercy is unconditional. The people needed to show genuine remorse for their wrongdoing, which had brought severe divine discipline. If they confessed their sins sincerely and from the heart, Jehovah would forgive them. In the same way, when we trust in Jehovah and openly acknowledge our mistakes, he forgives us.

Isaiah 14:3

The distress of living in exile would disappear once the people were released from the literal chains of slavery. Israel would no longer suffer the pain and anguish of living among those who worship false gods. Similarly, when we learned the truth and left the prison of this world, we began to worship the true God, Jehovah, and that brought us great happiness.

Isaiah 14:13

The pride of Babylon was similar to the attitude of Satan, the god of this system of things. Just as the Babylonian dynasty came to a humiliating end, Satan’s arrogance will also end in a disastrous way.

Isaiah 14:21

Babylon would fall permanently, and its ruling dynasty would be uprooted, never to rise again. Future generations of Babylon would suffer because of the errors of their ancestors. Therefore, it is vital that we have no association with it, since it will be destroyed forever.

Isaiah 14:22

In harmony with prophecy, Babylon eventually became nothing more than heaps of ruins. According to the Hebrew scholar Jerome, in his time Babylon was already a desolate land roamed by wild animals of all kinds. It remains desolate to this day. How important it is to wait for Jehovah to fulfill his promise that the wicked will no longer exist on the earth.

Isaiah 14:27

Isaiah states that Jehovah’s hand is stretched out against all the nations. Although these prophecies were initially fulfilled in ancient times, they also apply in a general way during the time of the end, when Jehovah extends his hand against all the kingdoms of the earth. With complete confidence and long in advance, Almighty God Jehovah reveals his purpose; no one can turn back his outstretched hand.

Isaiah 16:5

Many meek people have left modern-day Moab and have submitted to Jesus in order to gain life. They find great comfort in knowing that Jesus will make justice clear to the nations. We hope that we will be among those whom Jesus teaches about righteousness.

Isaiah 16:7

The Moabites would mourn over the raisin cakes of Kir-hareseth, likely one of the city’s main products. The pastures would dry up, and the waters of Dimon would be stained with the blood of dead Moabites. How important it is not to be mixed with the symbolic Moabites of our time so as not to suffer the same fate.

Isaiah 16:11

Isaiah, confident that the judgments would be carried out, expresses deep emotion. Like the vibrating strings of a harp, his inner being trembles with sorrow over the gloomy message directed against Moab. Jehovah’s time to execute judgment always arrives; we simply need patience to see it.

Isaiah 14:1

Jehovah always has a plan of restoration, even when we pass through painful or barren periods. Jehovah has not abandoned us. His nature is to restore, heal, and renew. The Bible says that he will make all things new. This motivates us and strongly encourages us to trust in him.

Isaiah 14:3

This verse teaches us that Jehovah can grant us relief from our slavery to sin. Periods of oppression—whether due to circumstances, harmful habits, or spiritual attacks—are not permanent. We can live with the hope that times of relief will come.

Isaiah 14:11, 12

These verses teach us that pride closes our heart and separates us from God. True greatness is found in humility and in recognizing that everything we are comes from Jehovah. It is good for us to examine ourselves and consider in which areas pride may be affecting us.

Isaiah 14:5

This verse teaches us that structures and organizations characterized by wickedness, injustice, or abuse—no matter how powerful they appear—have a limit. God intervenes at the right time to break every form of oppression. Our struggle is not against people, but against wicked spirit forces, and our Lord Jesus has already defeated them.

Isaiah 14:27

This verse teaches us that when Jehovah declares a promise of blessing, redemption, or justice, no human or spiritual power can stop it. His word is certain. What is impossible for humans is possible for God.

Isaiah 16:5

The perfect government that will arrive with Jesus, the King of God’s Kingdom, is based on loyal love. While we wait, the Bible urges us to live by and reflect that same justice combined with loyal love in our interpersonal relationships.

Isaiah 16:12

This verse teaches us that religious effort without a humble heart that depends on God is useless. Israel trusted in its rituals but not in Jehovah. This reminds us that our faith is not a checklist of tasks, but a relationship built on trust and sincere devotion. God wants us to worship him in spirit and truth.

Isaiah 16:4

Just as Jehovah is a refuge for us, we can imitate him by being a safe “hiding place,” a source of comfort and practical support for those who are being “pursued” by pain, crisis, or injustice. It is especially important to start within our own family.

Isaiah 16:4

This verse offers deep comfort. The injustice we see is not eternal. Jehovah God will bring a definitive end to all oppression and wickedness. This frees us from seeking revenge and fills us with hope, motivating us to preach the Kingdom knowing that the final outcome is guaranteed.

Isaiah 15:2

This verse speaks of shaving in this context. Heads would be shaved as a symbol of shame and mourning, and beards would be cut as a sign of extreme sorrow and humiliation.

Isaiah 14:3, 4

Jehovah promised that a day would come when his people would rest from pain, exhaustion, and oppression. He does not ignore the suffering of his servants or view it as insignificant. This helps me remember that Jehovah sees our daily struggles. Even when we are going through trials, he knows exactly how much we can endure and will provide relief at the right time.

Isaiah 14:12–15

The king of Babylon came to believe that he could rise above everyone else and even compare himself to God. But Jehovah made it clear that no one can challenge him or take his place. This teaches us that pride can grow unnoticed. That is why we must maintain a humble attitude and thank Jehovah for any privilege or ability we may have.

Isaiah 14:24 and 27

Jehovah states that when he decides to do something, no one can prevent it. His plans do not change or fail. This strengthens my confidence. Even though the world is full of injustices, I know that Jehovah is in control and that everything will be fulfilled exactly as he has promised.

Isaiah 14:32

This verse shows that Jehovah cares for and protects his people even when the surrounding nations fail. This encourages us to seek refuge in Jehovah, especially in difficult times. Prayer, Bible reading, and attending meetings help us feel protected and at peace.

Isaiah 15:5

Although Moab was an enemy nation, Jehovah expressed sorrow over the suffering that would come upon them. This shows that he does not take pleasure in seeing anyone suffer. This passage teaches us that Jehovah is very compassionate and encourages us to be more understanding toward others rather than judgmental when someone makes mistakes or faces trials.

Isaiah 16:3, 4

These verses highlight the importance of helping and protecting those who are in trouble rather than rejecting them. This motivates us to show greater kindness. Sometimes a word of encouragement, a visit, or a message can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Isaiah 16:5

This verse speaks of a government founded on love, justice, and faithfulness. It reminds us that Jehovah’s Kingdom is the only lasting solution. This strengthens our faith in God’s Kingdom and encourages us to continue supporting it through our daily conduct rather than placing our hope in human governments.

Isaiah 14:1, 2

These verses explain that Jehovah would show compassion to Jacob and choose Israel again, allowing them to settle in their land and for people from the nations to join them. This promise teaches us that Jehovah’s mercy is unconditional when there is a heart willing to humble itself before him. We learn that if we confess our sins honestly and fully trust in Jehovah, he will forgive us and allow us to continue enjoying the unity among his people.

Isaiah 14:3–8

This portion of the prophecy reminds us that true peace is achieved only when we are freed from the chains of this system of things. Just as Israel was liberated from Babylon, we too, when we learned the truth, left the spiritual prison of this world and began to worship Jehovah. As a result, we experienced a kind of peace that no one can take away.

Isaiah 14:12–15

Here the prophet describes the fall of the “shining one,” who in his heart desired to raise his throne above the stars of God and make himself like the Most High. This attitude of extreme pride that characterized the Babylonian dynasty perfectly reflects Satan’s own mindset. The lesson for us is that arrogance and the desire for prominence lead only to a humiliating and disastrous end, just as will soon happen to him and to all who imitate his pride.

Isaiah 14:21–23

These verses describe the command to prepare a place to wipe out the descendants of the wicked because of the guilt of their ancestors, ensuring that Babylon’s name would be erased forever. This teaches us the importance of having no connection with the symbolic “Babylon” of our time, since its destruction will be total and final. We do not want the wickedness of this system to overtake us when Jehovah executes his judgment.

Isaiah 14:24–27

These verses assure us that what Jehovah has decided will be carried out without fail and that his hand is stretched out against all nations to remove the yoke from his people. Although these words had an initial fulfillment in ancient times, they have a greater application in the time of the end. We therefore learn that Jehovah’s word and purpose are unchangeable, giving us complete confidence that all his promises for the future will come true.

Isaiah 15:1

Here the prophet describes how Ar and Kir of Moab are silenced and destroyed in a single night. This declaration teaches us that Jehovah’s judgment can come suddenly and unexpectedly upon those who are unprepared. The lesson for us is clear: we must not take our security in this world for granted, since structures that seem solid can disappear in an instant when Jehovah decides to act. Remaining spiritually alert is essential for our protection.

Isaiah 15:2–4

These verses portray a people overwhelmed by despair, going up to their high places of false worship to weep, with shaved heads and dressed in sackcloth as signs of mourning. These expressions of extreme distress show that when calamity strikes, false religion and the gods of this world offer no real comfort or salvation. We therefore learn that only pure worship of Jehovah provides a solid foundation. While the world trembles during crises, Jehovah’s servants have a firm hope that sustains them.

Isaiah 15:5, 6

These verses state that even the prophet’s heart cries out for Moab as he sees the fugitives fleeing and observes how the vegetation and the waters of Nimrim completely dry up. This description of a land left without anything green teaches us that when Jehovah’s blessing is withdrawn because of disobedience, even the most basic natural resources can fail. Therefore, we must value the spiritual food and the waters of truth we receive today, recognizing that without Jehovah’s guidance, humanity is left in a dry and lifeless spiritual desert.

Isaiah 15:7, 8

These verses describe the Moabites trying to save their riches and provisions while their cries echo throughout the land. The fact that they must flee with what little they have left reminds us that material possessions are temporary and offer no protection against Jehovah’s judgment. From this we learn to store up treasures in heaven rather than relying on the riches of this system, which can ultimately become a burden.

Isaiah 15:9

Here Jehovah warns that the waters of Dimon will be filled with blood and that he has yet more in store for those who escape, including a lion. This strong expression emphasizes that no one can evade divine justice. The fundamental lesson is that the only true escape is to seek refuge in Jehovah now, before his judgments are executed. This should motivate us to preach with urgency and help people draw close to Jehovah so that they do not face the consequences of remaining separated from him.

Isaiah 16:5

Here we see the beautiful promise of a throne firmly established in loyal love, where a faithful ruler from the line of David will judge with fairness. This offers a hopeful lesson about God’s Kingdom under Jesus Christ. We learn that unlike human governments, the King appointed by Jehovah will not delay in bringing justice. This motivates us to remain faithful, knowing that his rule is the only one that will provide a permanent solution to mankind’s problems.

Isaiah 16:6–10

These verses vividly describe Moab’s extreme arrogance and how its empty words fail to save its fields and vineyards, causing joy and gladness to disappear from its land. This is a powerful lesson about the consequences of pride. Moab felt very secure, but its rage and arrogance led to its downfall. We learn that trusting in our own abilities or in the empty promises of this system results only in disappointment, since true happiness comes from serving Jehovah with humility and gratitude.

Isaiah 16:11, 12

Here the prophet says that his inner being vibrates like the strings of a harp because of the sorrow he feels for Moab, and he notes that even if this people go to their sanctuary to pray, they will gain nothing. We learn that Jehovah’s judgments, although necessary and just, are not to be taken lightly. Even the prophet felt deep sorrow for the tragedy that would come upon those who rejected God. This serves as a warning against false religion and all its features.

Isaiah 16:13, 14

Here Jehovah sets a specific period of three years for Moab’s glory to be brought to disgrace and for its survivors to be reduced to insignificance. This precise time frame teaches us that Jehovah’s word is exact and is always fulfilled at the appointed time. For Jehovah’s Witnesses today, this strengthens our faith that the end of this system will occur exactly when Jehovah has determined, even if it seems delayed from a human perspective.