The inhabitants of Tema, an Arabian oasis town, were commanded to help the fleeing caravan with bread and water. We are now told the reason for the flight through the thickets: there would be war in Arabia, and the people would have good cause to fear the swords and bows aimed at them. Assyria invaded Arabia in 732 and 725 BC; Isaiah was probably foreseeing these attacks.
14 To the thirsty bring water; meet the fugitive with bread, O inhabitants of the land of Tema.