Who will lament according to Isaiah 19:8?

In Isaiah 19:8, it is stated that "the fishermen will mourn." This refers specifically to those who cast hooks into the river, indicating that the fishing industry will suffer significant losses. The lamentation signifies a deeper sorrow connected to the broader consequences of divine judgment on the land of Egypt and its economy. The reference to fishermen highlights how the collapse of their trade due to the drying up of the Nile River affects not just their livelihood but also the community that depends on their catch for sustenance.

The context of this passage illustrates the cascading effects of calamity on various professions tied to the river, particularly those who rely on fishing. The imagery evokes a sense of loss and despair, as the normal cycles of life and commerce are disrupted. Other groups mentioned, such as those who gather shellfish or farm by the banks, may be affected too, but it is the fishermen specifically who are highlighted for their mourning in this particular verse. This emphasis illustrates the impact of the prophecy and the suffering that results from divine repercussions, making option A the correct choice.