And the inhabitant of this isle shall say in that day, Behold, such [is] our expectation, whither we flee for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria: and how shall we escape?
Ver. 6. And the inhabitant of this isle shall say, &c.] Judea, though part of the continent, is here called an isle or island, whereas it was indeed an inland; (1.) Because it was bounded on the west with the Midland Sea, and on the east with the lake of Gennesaret; (2.) Because it was beset with many enemies, and beaten upon by the waves of wars from all parts, but especially from Egypt and Babylon, which is called a sea; Isaiah 21:1 ; Isa 8:8 (3.) Because begirt with God's favour, power, and protection, which was greater security to it than the sea is to Venice a (which yet is media insuperabilis unda), or than wooden walls can be to any island.
Behold, such is our expectation, &c.] Here is their shame, and well it might be, for if Hezekiah relied not upon the Egyptian for help against the Assyrian, yet the people did, as Rabshakeh also could tell. 2Ki 18:24
And how shall we escape?] Here is their fear. Isa 20:5 How much more shall wicked men say thus at the last day?
a Venice is environed with her embracing Neptune, to whom she marrieth herself with yearly nuptials, casting a ring into the sea.