2:3 his mighty men. Probably a reference to the Lord’s army (v. 2.). The warriors and chariots of the attackers fulfill His purposes. The armies of Assyria herself had earlier been God’s instruments to accomplish His purposes of judgment (Is. 10:5–7).

red . . . scarlet. These terms emphasize the awe-inspiring appearance of the approaching army, whether the color refers to their actual robes or to the blood stains on them.

spears are brandished. The Hebrew is difficult but conveys the general impression of ready eagerness for war.