Old Testament
Isaiah 10:32
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Today he will stop at Nob. From there he will shake his hand at the mountain of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.
Compare translations
As yet shall he remain at Nob that day: he shall shake his hand against the mount of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.
What Isaiah 10:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 10:32, the prophet describes a moment when the Assyrian army, which is advancing towards Jerusalem, pauses at Nob, a location near Jerusalem. The imagery of shaking a hand signifies a gesture of defiance or contempt towards Jerusalem, symbolizing the Assyrians' intent to challenge and intimidate the people of Zion. This verse highlights the looming threat against Jerusalem, emphasizing the power of the Assyrians and their disdain for the city. Nob serves as a vantage point from which the Assyrians can see Jerusalem, and their actions reflect their confidence in overpowering the city. This moment serves as a reminder of the tension between the might of earthly powers and the spiritual significance of Jerusalem, the city of God. The verse sets the stage for the ensuing conflict and the eventual divine intervention that will follow, illustrating the struggle between faith and fear in the face of overwhelming odds.
How to apply Isaiah 10:32 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith even when facing overwhelming challenges. Just as Jerusalem faced a formidable enemy, we too may encounter situations that seem insurmountable. Trusting in God's protection and sovereignty can provide strength and hope during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 10:32
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 10:32
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 10:32 mean?
Isaiah 10:32 describes the Assyrian army stopping at Nob, where they gesture contemptuously towards Jerusalem. This moment highlights their intent to intimidate the city, symbolizing the threat Jerusalem faces from powerful earthly forces.
What is the significance of Nob in Isaiah 10:32?
Nob is significant as it serves as a vantage point for the Assyrians to view Jerusalem. The location emphasizes their confidence and the impending danger they pose to the city of Zion.
What does shaking a hand symbolize in Isaiah 10:32?
In Isaiah 10:32, shaking a hand symbolizes defiance and contempt. It reflects the Assyrians' attitude towards Jerusalem, indicating their intention to challenge and overpower the city.
What themes are present in Isaiah 10:32?
Isaiah 10:32 encompasses themes of divine judgment, the Assyrian threat, and the significance of Jerusalem. It also touches on defiance, spiritual warfare, and the hope that can exist amid fear.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.