Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
Reply of the prophet, The morning (prosperity) cometh, and (soon after follows) the night (adversity). Though you, Idumeans, may have a gleam of prosperity, it will soon be followed by adversity again. Otherwise, as BARNES, "Prosperity cometh (to the Jews) to be quickly followed by adversity (to you, Idumeans, who exult in the fall of Jerusalem, have seized on the southern part of their land in their absence during the captivity, and now deride them by your question)" (Isaiah 34:5-7). This view is favored by Obadiah 1:10-21.
if ye will inquire, inquire—If ye choose to consult me again, do so (similar phrases occur in Genesis 43:14; II Kings 7:4; Esther 4:16).
return, come—"Be converted to God (and then), come" [GESENIUS]; you will then receive a more favorable answer.
Probably in the wars between Assyria and Egypt; Idumea and Arabia lay somewhat on the intermediate line of march.
Other Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown entries containing Isaiah 21:12:
Isaiah 21:11
Isaiah 47:11
DISCLAIMER: Church of the Great God (CGG) provides these resources to aid the individual in studying the Bible. However, it is up to the individual to "prove all things, and hold fast to that which is good" (I Thessalonians 5:21). The content of these resources does not necessarily reflect the views of CGG. They are provided for information purposes only.