What was Dimon?

Dimon was a city located in the region of Moab, mentioned in Isaiah 15:9 as part of a prophetic oracle of judgment against the nation of Moab. The name “Dimon” (Hebrew: דִּימֹן, Dîmôn) is likely a variant spelling or intentional wordplay on Dibon (דִּיבוֹן, Dîbôn), a significant Moabite city. The name Dimon may carry a grim connotation due to its association with the Hebrew word for “blood” (dam, דָּם), highlighting the theme of bloodshed in the prophecy.

Dimon appears only once in the Bible—in Isaiah 15:9. This mention is part of a broader oracle in Isaiah chapters 15-16, where the prophet Isaiah delivers a word from the Lord regarding the coming devastation upon Moab. The surrounding text vividly portrays the national mourning and ruin that will befall Moab, with Dimon depicted as a site of particular bloodshed and judgment.

Biblical Reference

• Isaiah 15:9 (NIV) – “Dimon’s waters are full of blood, but I will bring still more upon Dimon—a lion upon the fugitives of Moab and upon those who remain in the land.”

Cross-References

• Numbers 21:30 – Dibon (likely the same as Dimon) is listed among Moabite cities.

• Jeremiah 48 – Another prophecy against Moab, including cities such as Dibon and Aroer.

• Isaiah 16:1-14 – Continuation of the oracle against Moab.

Explanation of What Happened

Isaiah 15 presents a lament for Moab, a nation related to Israel through Lot (Genesis 19:37), which had often been in tension or outright conflict with Israel. The prophet Isaiah, under divine inspiration, announces that God’s judgment is coming against the cities of Moab, including Dimon. The prophecy is poetic and rich in imagery, describing weeping, destruction, and flight.

Dimon stands out in Isaiah 15:9 as a place overwhelmed by “waters full of blood.” The name change from “Dibon” to “Dimon” may be intentional, emphasizing the horror and bloodshed. The Lord announces that not only will the city experience death, but He will also send a lion upon those who escape—symbolizing further judgment, even upon the remnant.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

Dimon serves as a sober reminder of the reality of God’s judgment against sin and rebellion. Though Moab was not part of Israel, God held the nation accountable for its pride, idolatry, and hostility toward His people. This reminds Christians that God is sovereign over all nations and that no one is beyond His reach—whether for judgment or mercy.

For believers, the warning against Moab—epitomized in Dimon—teaches the seriousness of sin and the importance of humility before God. While God‘s mercy is abundant, His justice is also certain. Dimon symbolizes what happens when a people persist in rejecting God‘s authority.

How Dimon Points to Jesus and the Gospel

While Dimon is a symbol of judgment and destruction, it also points to the need for a Savior. The bloodshed at Dimon reflects the broader human condition—fallen, rebellious, and under divine wrath. Into this hopeless picture steps Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

Rather than waters full of blood from judgment, Jesus offers living water that cleanses and gives life (John 4:14). Where Dimon speaks of blood as a symbol of death, the gospel speaks of the blood of Christ as the source of life (Hebrews 9:14). Jesus bore the wrath that was rightly deserved by sinful nations and individuals, offering peace through His cross.

Dimon thus serves as a backdrop of warning that magnifies the beauty and necessity of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Judgment Against Nations

Dimon is one among many cities and nations judged in the prophetic books. God holds all nations accountable, not just Israel. This points to His universal authority and justice.

2. God’s Sovereignty Over History

The judgment of Dimon was not a random event—it was foretold by God through His prophet. This shows that history unfolds under God‘s sovereign plan.

3. Sin and Consequence

Dimon represents the inevitable consequences of sin when a nation or individual persists in rebellion against God.

4. Hope Through Redemption

Even though Dimon is associated with blood and destruction, Isaiah’s prophecies elsewhere speak of a coming Messiah. This tension highlights the gospel message: God is just, but He is also merciful and provides a way of escape through Jesus.

Reflection Questions

1. What does the destruction of Dimon teach us about the seriousness of sin and God’s justice?

2. How does Isaiah’s prophecy against Moab reflect God’s concern for all nations, not just Israel?

3. In what ways does the judgment on Dimon make the hope of the gospel even more precious?

4. How should Christians respond today to the warnings and judgments found in Old Testament prophecy?

5. Do we see the reality of God‘s sovereignty and justice in the world today? How does this shape our view of mission and evangelism?

Dimon, though briefly mentioned, offers a profound and sobering message: God is holy, He judges sin, and yet He has provided salvation through Christ. As with every part of Scripture, even the darkest scenes prepare the way for the light of the gospel.