“As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths.”
The prophet announces judgment on leaders: those who guide the people lead them astray, confusing the direction of their paths—the corruption of leadership produces social and spiritual chaos. The specific critique of false guidance suggests that leaders have abdicated their responsibility to direct the people toward God's ways; instead, they misdirect toward idolatry and injustice. The phrase "devour the work of the people" suggests leaders exploit those they supposedly serve, enriching themselves while impoverishing their people. The mention of women and children as rulers (perhaps a poetic description of weak, capricious, or unjust leadership) emphasizes incompetence and the breakdown of proper authority. This verse completes the critique of leadership begun in verses 1-5; throughout chapter 3, Isaiah establishes that justice and proper governance are inseparable and that false leadership produces societal chaos.
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