Babylon relied on her sorcerers, magicians, necromancers and stargazers. Just as many government officials and Hollywood stars consult with deceptive spirits and demons connected to Satan in today’s world, the rulers of Babylon consulted theirs.
Nebuchadnezzars father King Nabopolassar had a slew of sorcerers, soothsayers, stargazers, diviners and occultist surrounding him, advising him of his every move. When King Nebuchadnezzar II took the throne, he inherited them as part of his counsel from his father. But Nebuchadnezzar found that only the God of Israel could reveal secrets and was true to His Word.
The ruling elite of Babylon were deeply humbled when their false gods, sorcerers, diviners and stargazers were unable to warn them of the invasion of the Persian King just as the Isaiah prophecy states. Not only did they not warn them, but those idols held them captive, promising peace and security within the massive walls.
What a burden their created idols became for them. Neither Bel or Nebo could stand erect on their own. The Babylonians would have to haul them away in their wagons, they had no use or power of their own. The God of Israel has shown that their golden idols of pagan gods and carved animals were a heavy burden, mute and of no help. Even Marduk the Snake-Dragon – chief god of Babylon had been muzzled and lame. He was no match for the God of the Israelites. When the nobles and high priests removed the created idols that had failed them, they became a heavy burden under the victory of the God of Israel.
The Isaiah prophecy has more spiritual meaning than a physical one with the lackluster and worthlessness of the pagan idols.
There is no mention of the people scattering or fleeing Babylon after the Mede-Persian conquest. Historical documentation, including the Cyrus Cylinder (539-538 BC) suggests that the city was taken without much of a fight. In fact, most of the kingdom were not even aware that they had been captured for up to three days.
