Old Testament
Isaiah 1:21
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How did the faithful city become a prostitute! She was once full of justice. Righteousness made its home in her — but now she's full of murderers.
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How is the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers.
What Isaiah 1:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 1:21, the prophet laments the transformation of Jerusalem, once known for its faithfulness and justice, into a city characterized by corruption and violence. The term 'prostitute' symbolizes unfaithfulness to God, indicating that the city has abandoned its moral and ethical responsibilities. Originally, Jerusalem was a place where justice and righteousness thrived, but now it is filled with murderers, reflecting a deep moral decay. This verse serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a society can fall from grace when it turns away from its foundational values. The imagery of a faithful city becoming a harlot highlights the betrayal of trust and the consequences of straying from divine principles. It calls for reflection on the importance of maintaining justice and righteousness in our communities, as neglecting these virtues can lead to societal breakdown and moral chaos.
How to apply Isaiah 1:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our own lives and communities for signs of moral decline. We should strive to uphold justice and righteousness in our actions and decisions, ensuring that we remain faithful to our values and commitments. By doing so, we can help prevent the deterioration of our moral fabric.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 1:21 mean?
Isaiah 1:21 expresses the prophet's sorrow over Jerusalem's decline from a city known for justice and righteousness to one filled with corruption and violence. It highlights the consequences of abandoning moral values and faithfulness to God.
What is the meaning of 'faithful city' in Isaiah 1:21?
In Isaiah 1:21, 'faithful city' refers to Jerusalem when it was dedicated to justice and righteousness. The term contrasts with its current state of moral decay, symbolizing a betrayal of its original purpose.
What does the term 'prostitute' symbolize in Isaiah 1:21?
The term 'prostitute' in Isaiah 1:21 symbolizes unfaithfulness to God and a departure from moral integrity. It indicates that Jerusalem has forsaken its ethical responsibilities and is now corrupt.
How does Isaiah 1:21 relate to moral decay?
Isaiah 1:21 illustrates how quickly a society can fall into moral decay when it strays from justice and righteousness. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards to prevent societal breakdown.
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