Israel vs Iran is a battle no one wants to see because of how this led not just to regional war, but also a global conflict. Iran is one of the most vocal enemies of Israel and by extension, the United States its allies.

Although Iran is facing economic problems, Iran maintains a formidable military presence, dangerous alliances, and even poses a nuclear threat. With its expansive territory spanning 1.648 million square kilometers and a population of approximately 88 million, Iran stands as a significant adversary to Western powers.

So, with all the conflict we are seeing in the Middle East and across the globe, we want to know, “What does Bible prophecy say about Iran, especially with its conflict with Israel?”

Where is Iran in the Bible?

In seeking insights from biblical prophecy regarding Iran vs Israel, it’s essential to note that the term most commonly associated with Iran in the Bible is Persia. This designation appears 30 times in the New King James Version, exclusively within the Hebrew scriptures or the Old Testament. Interestingly, even in the modern era, Iranians often identify themselves as Persians, underscoring the enduring historical connection.

The Bible indeed offers intriguing insights into the conflict between Israel and Iran, dating back to ancient times. Many scholars and biblical references connect modern-day Iran, once known as Persia, with the ancient Elamites. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, for instance, equates Elam with Persia. According to Genesis 10:22 and 1 Chronicles 1:17, Elam was a son of Shem, making them relatives of ancient Asshur or Assur.

We read these verses:

²² The sons of Shem were Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram (Genesis 10:22).

¹⁷ The sons of Shem were Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, Aram, Uz, Hul, Gether, and Meshech (1 Chronicles 1:17)

Historically, Susa, also known as Sushan, served as one of the capitals of the Elamite or Persian empire. Notably, figures like Esther, Daniel, and Jeremiah are said to have resided there at various times. Today, Susa is known as Shush, a city situated in modern-day Iran.

These connections between biblical narratives and present-day geopolitical realities add layers of complexity to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. They invite us to consider the historical context and the enduring impact of ancient civilizations on contemporary events.

Iran’s Prophesied Attacks on Israel

Notice the prophecy given in Isaiah 22:5-9:

For it is a day of trouble and treading down and perplexity

By the Lord GOD of hosts
In the Valley of Vision—
Breaking down the walls
And of crying to the mountain.

Verse 5 tells us that the setting of this prophecy is in the future. Notice what Elam would do here, which is also Iran today as we continue reading verses 6 to 7:

Elam bore the quiver
With chariots of men and horsemen,
And Kir uncovered the shield.

It shall come to pass that your choicest valleys
Shall be full of chariots,
And the horsemen shall set themselves in array at the gate.

The mention of Elam’s involvement raises intriguing questions about its role in the prophesied events. It’s plausible that Elam, representing modern-day Iran, could either lead an attack or serve another army, possibly under duress. This interpretation aligns with historical dynamics, as the ancient Assyrian army often coerced various peoples, including Elamites, into involuntary service.

Moreover, the verse’s dual nature allows for interpretations spanning different historical periods, including the end times. Considering the geographical spread of modern Elam across Eastern Europe, Iran, and India, it’s conceivable that weaponry from these regions could play a role in the assault by an end-time Assyrian army against the modern nations of Israel.

In a contemporary context, the imagery of the “quiver” may symbolize a stockpile of missiles, hinting at the utilization of modern weaponry in future conflicts. Thus, the prophecy in Isaiah offers a thought-provoking glimpse into potential scenarios and the complex interplay of historical precedent and future events.

Israel received massive damage

We continue reading verse 8:

He removed the protection of Judah.
You looked in that day to the armor of the House of the Forest.

Verse 8 of Isaiah 22 paints a sobering picture, depicting the removal of Judah’s protection and their reliance on the armor of the “House of the Forest.” This reference likely alludes to Solomon’s construction, the “House of the Forest of Lebanon,” which served as the national armory for Israel.

In historical context, this verse highlights a shift from reliance on divine protection to dependence on military might. Instead of trusting in God, the people of Judah looked to their own stockpiles and defenses. Sadly, this pattern of placing confidence in human strength rather than divine providence echoes through the ages, including in the attitudes of modern Israelite nations.

The consequence of this misplaced trust is vividly depicted in verse 9, where the city of David suffers great damage, leading to the gathering of waters from the lower pool—a symbolic act of preparation for siege and hardship.

This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of forsaking faith for the false security of military strength. It warns against the perils of placing trust in earthly resources over divine protection. In today’s context, it prompts reflection on the balance between national defense measures and spiritual reliance on God’s guidance and protection.

God’s Judgment on Israel vs Iran

Eventually, the time of God’s judgment would be upon Elam or Iran. We read in Jeremiah 49:34-39:

The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against Elam, in the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, saying, 35 “Thus says the LORD of hosts:

‘Behold, I will break the bow of Elam,
The foremost of their might.
Against Elam I will bring the four winds
From the four quarters of heaven,
And scatter them toward all those winds;
There shall be no nations where the outcasts of Elam will not go.

For I will cause Elam to be dismayed before their enemies
And before those who seek their life.

I will bring disaster upon them,
My fierce anger,’ says the LORD;

‘And I will send the sword after them
Until I have consumed them.

I will set My throne in Elam,
And will destroy from there the king and the princes,’ says the LORD.

‘But it shall come to pass in the latter days:
I will bring back the captives of Elam,’ says the LORD.”

The prophetic words of Jeremiah 49:34-39 cast a solemn light on the future fate of Elam, modern-day Iran. These verses, delivered during the reign of King Zedekiah of Judah, foretell a time of divine judgment upon Elam.

God declares His intention to break the bow of Elam, symbolizing the destruction of their military might. He speaks of scattering the people of Elam to the four winds, signifying a widespread dispersion. No nation will escape the outcasts of Elam.

The Lord promises to bring dismay upon Elam before their enemies, unleashing disaster and His fierce anger upon them. The sword will pursue them until their complete consumption. The prophecy extends to the establishment of God’s throne in Elam, signaling the downfall of its rulers.

Yet, amidst the impending Israel vs Iran judgment, there is a glimmer of hope. In the latter days, God promises to bring back the captives of Elam, offering a vision of restoration and redemption.

Israel vs Iran: Pray for God’s Kingdom

As we witness events unfolding in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Iran, we recognize the stage being set for the fulfillment of these ancient prophecies. While our understanding may be limited as of this time, we anticipate the precise fulfillment of these prophecies in due time.

In the midst of turmoil and uncertainty, it’s essential to lift up prayers for all those involved in the conflict. While more troubles may lie ahead, these events ultimately pave the way for the coming of the Kingdom of God. Let us unite in prayer, longing for the day when His Kingdom will reign supreme. Thy Kingdom come!

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If you want to learn more about Biblical prophecies and the result of the Israel vs Iran war, I highly recommend you grab a copy of our FREE study guide entitled, “Signs of the Age: 21 Bible Prophecies That Must Be Fulfilled Before Jesus Christ’s Return.”

In this eBook, you’ll learn the following:

• The signs of the coming of our Savior Yahshua the Messiah
• The meaning of the Four Horsemen of Revelation
• The protection God will give to His people
• The wrath of Satan
• The future events that will affect Israel, the United States, Europe, and other superpowers
• And so much more!

So, don’t miss this golden opportunity to learn more about what the Bible says about future events and how you can better prepare for what’s coming to this earth!

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