Old Testament
Isaiah 10:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 10:14, the speaker, representing a powerful nation or ruler, boasts about their ability to easily seize the wealth of other nations, comparing it to gathering eggs from a nest.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
My hand reached into the wealth of nations like reaching into a bird's nest. Like someone gathering abandoned eggs, I gathered the whole earth — and no one flapped a wing, opened a mouth, or made a sound."
And my hand hath found as a nest the riches of the people: and as one gathereth eggs that are left, have I gathered all the earth; and there was none that moved the wing, or opened the mouth, or peeped.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 10:14, the speaker, representing a powerful nation or ruler, boasts about their ability to easily seize the wealth of other nations, comparing it to gathering eggs from a nest. This imagery illustrates the effortless way in which they have taken control of resources without facing any resistance. The phrase "no one flapped a wing" suggests that the nations were powerless to stop this takeover, highlighting the dominance and authority of the speaker. The verse reflects themes of conquest, power, and the lack of opposition from those who are being exploited. It serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of nations in the face of stronger forces and the consequences of unchecked ambition and greed. The imagery of gathering eggs also implies that the wealth was left unprotected, indicating a lack of vigilance among the nations. Overall, this verse emphasizes the ease with which power can exploit the weak, and the silence of the oppressed speaks volumes about their helplessness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 10:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of the dynamics of power and wealth in our world. It reminds us to protect what is valuable and to stand against exploitation. We should also reflect on our own actions and ensure we are not complicit in systems that take advantage of the vulnerable.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 10:14 mean in simple terms?
Isaiah 10:14 describes a powerful ruler who claims to have easily taken the wealth of other nations, likening it to gathering eggs from a nest. This imagery illustrates how effortlessly the ruler has seized control of resources without facing any resistance, highlighting themes of power and exploitation.
How does Isaiah 10:14 relate to modern issues of power?
The verse serves as a reminder of how powerful entities can exploit weaker nations or groups without opposition. In today's context, it encourages us to be vigilant against systems of exploitation and to advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations from being taken advantage of.
What themes are present in Isaiah 10:14?
Key themes in Isaiah 10:14 include power, conquest, exploitation, and vulnerability. The verse emphasizes the ease with which those in power can dominate others and the silence of the oppressed, reflecting on the consequences of unchecked ambition and greed.
How can I apply the lessons from Isaiah 10:14 in my life?
You can apply the lessons from Isaiah 10:14 by being aware of the dynamics of power and wealth around you. Stand against exploitation in your community, support vulnerable individuals, and reflect on your own actions to ensure you are not contributing to systems that harm others.
The Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You
The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.
Unlock the full Isaiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Isaiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 66 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Isaiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.