The answer is: Bats

Isa 2:20

In Isaiah 2:20, the imagery of people discarding their silver and gold idols to moles and bats highlights a powerful theme: the futility of idol worship in times of crisis. Often, treasures considered symbols of value and security fade into nothingness in the light of God’s majesty. It’s fascinating to dive deeper into the symbolism of these animals!

Bats, usually misunderstood and feared creatures, have a duality in scripture. They are often carriers of darkness, voicing the stark absence of the light promised in brighter times. Just like Christ operated in the paradox of creating beauty from chaos, Isaiah shows that what humans typically admired—wealth and possessions—will quickly become worthless when faced with divine revelation. Moles, on the other hand, live underground, suggesting a deeper commentary on the hidden, insignificant nature of idols created by human hands.

Trivia time! In the Hebrew culture, bats are often classified as “unclean” animals, indicating a view around purity laws many would have adhered to—even before modern hygiene concerns! By condemning these idols to lowly creatures, Isaiah’s prophecy underscores that their ultimate outcome is to rot and scatter, emphasizing the urgent need for a genuine spiritual connection beyond mere surface-level riches.

This verse reminds us not just about the destruction of false gods but challenges us to reflect on what we may be clinging to that is due for a cosmic trashing. What priorities do we need to reassess today?