Daily Devotions
Isaiah
"He will slay the reptile that is in the sea"
Text: Isaiah 27:1
REFERENCE TO LEVIATHAN
The Biblical writers were aware of mythological creatures, such as “Leviathan”. However, that does not mean that Isaiah actually believed in these myths. The writer used the word “Leviathan” effectively to communicate an important truth!
“In that day the LORD with His severe sword, great and strong,
Will punish Leviathan the fleeing serpent,
Leviathan that twisted serpent;
And He will slay the reptile that is in the sea.”
Isaiah 27:1
1. Leviathan mentioned.
a) Many myths were in circulation in the early days.
b) In Ugaritic literature, the sea serpent is called “Lotan”.
2. Leviathan described.
a) The fleeing serpent.
b) The twisted serpent.
c) The reptile that is in the sea.
d) In ancient day myths, Leviathan is described as most powerful.
e) No human might can overcome the power of Leviathan.
3. The significance of the use of the imagery “Leviathan”.
a) It describes a powerful adversary.
b) The word “twisted” may be understood as “coiled and ready to strike”.
c) This enemy is feared by all nations.
4. Allusion to the Devil.
a) We see an allusion to the serpent in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3).
b) The power of the Devil is hinted at.
c) He is the one who has instigated evil deeds.
5. The LORD as the Conqueror.
a) The LORD Himself will go into battle against Leviathan.
b) With His Divine sword He will slay Leviathan.
c) A description of the sword of the LORD.
i) It is severe.
ii) It is great.
iii) It is strong.
d) The LORD will punish Leviathan for all the evil that he had done.
i) God’s power is far greater.
ii) Leviathan would be punished severely.
iii) He would be destroyed by the LORD.