Isaiah 30:17

The threat of only one man would so terrify a thousand Judahites that they would flee. The presence of only a few of the enemy would drive multitudes from their land (cf. Leviticus 26:8; Deuteronomy 32:30). Again, a double illustration (at the end of the verse) stressed a complete overthrow (cf. Isaiah 30:14). A deserted flag or signal on a hilltop would be all that was left to indicate the former presence of the people of Judah (cf. Isaiah 6:11-12). This is probably another reference to the remaining remnant. [Note: Delitzsch, 2:33.]