Eugene, Rereward is an old English word taken from the French word (from my search - I don't speak French): arriere-garde. And this means, rear-guard. So in Isa 58:8, 52:12; Josh 6:9,13; Num 10:25 & 1 Sam 29:2, the thought is of someone or something coming behind you for protection or safety.
If an army troop or any foot patrol went through a possible hidden enemy presence, the formation always had a couple of scouts way ahead to check out the forward position of the main body of men, & a rear-guard (affectionately called, Tail-end Charlie) who constantly looked behind him for enemy presence following them. These positions assisted the main body to check their flanks & in the trees, confidently putting their trust in Tail-end Charlie to keep their backs secure. One slip up by him & they could be all dead. Even on the sports field, no man plays the game on his own - he's part of the team, dependent on others to secure a win.
And so in Isaiah too, it is God's Glory that would follow Israel, as He was the reason for Israel's existence, her confidence & security, & He would be their Rear-Guard if only they would abide by His requirements upon them. Yet, how often they failed Him even with the Promises of God their blessed possession.
If an army troop or any foot patrol went through a possible hidden enemy presence, the formation always had a couple of scouts way ahead to check out the forward position of the main body of men, & a rear-guard (affectionately called, Tail-end Charlie) who constantly looked behind him for enemy presence following them. These positions assisted the main body to check their flanks & in the trees, confidently putting their trust in Tail-end Charlie to keep their backs secure. One slip up by him & they could be all dead. Even on the sports field, no man plays the game on his own - he's part of the team, dependent on others to secure a win.
And so in Isaiah too, it is God's Glory that would follow Israel, as He was the reason for Israel's existence, her confidence & security, & He would be their Rear-Guard if only they would abide by His requirements upon them. Yet, how often they failed Him even with the Promises of God their blessed possession.
This comment thread is locked. Please enter a new comment below to start a new comment thread.
Note: Comment threads older than 2 months are automatically locked.
Do you have a Bible comment or question?
Please Sign In or Register to post comments...
Report Comment
Which best represents the problem with the comment?