What does Isaiah 17:2 mean?
The prophecy against Damascus could not be stated more plainly: The city will be left in ruins (Isaiah 17:1). Damascus was more than just a city. It was the capital of Aram, also called Syria. The territory under Aram's control stretched south to the cities of Aroer. These cities were located east of the Dead Sea along the Arnon River. A key fortress located there guarded the border between Moab and Ammon as well as a travel route through the river valley.Isaiah writes that in addition to the utter destruction of Damascus, the cities of Aroer will become deserted as well. The area will be so quiet that sheep will rest easily without fear of being disturbed. The eerie quiet at a formerly busy fortress will indicate just how thoroughly the people have been wiped out. This likely took place in 732 BC, when the Assyrians destroyed Damascus for their rebellion against them.