John Calvin Commentary Habakkuk 1:10

"Yea, he scoffeth at kings, and princes are a derision unto him; he derideth every stronghold; for he heapeth up dust, and taketh it." — Habakkuk 1:10 (ASV)

The Prophet concludes the subject he has been pursuing until now. He says that the Chaldeans would not come to engage in a doubtful war, but only to triumph over conquered nations.

We indeed know that the Jews, though not excelling in number or riches, were yet so proud that they looked down, as it were, with contempt on other nations. We also know that they vainly trusted in vain helps; for since they were allied with the Egyptians, they thought themselves beyond the reach of danger.

Therefore, the Prophet says that kings and princes would be mere sport to the Chaldeans, and their fortresses only an object of derision to them. How so? For, he says, they will gather dust; that is, they will make a mound of the dust of the earth and thus penetrate all fortified cities.

In short, the Prophet intended to cut off every hope from the Jews, so that they might humble themselves before God; or he intended to take away every excuse if they did not repent, as indeed happened. For we know that they did not repent despite these warnings, until vengeance eventually fully overtook them. He then adds—