Old Testament
Isaiah 10:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is drawing a comparison between various cities that have fallen to conquest.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Didn't Calno fall just like Carchemish? Wasn't Hamath conquered like Arpad? Wasn't Samaria taken down like Damascus?
Is not Calno as Carchemish? is not Hamath as Arpad? is not Samaria as Damascus?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is drawing a comparison between various cities that have fallen to conquest. Calno and Carchemish, Hamath and Arpad, as well as Samaria and Damascus, are all examples of cities that faced destruction. Isaiah is emphasizing the inevitability of judgment and the fate of nations that oppose God. The rhetorical questions highlight that just as these cities fell, so too will others face similar consequences. This serves as a warning to those who might think they are invulnerable or beyond God's reach. The historical context shows that no city, regardless of its strength or defenses, can escape divine judgment if it turns away from righteousness. Isaiah's message is clear: pride and rebellion against God lead to downfall, and history serves as a reminder of this truth.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 10:9 to your life
This verse reminds us that no matter how strong or secure we feel, we must remain humble and aligned with God's will. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and attitudes, ensuring we do not become complacent or prideful. Acknowledging our dependence on God can help us avoid the fate of those who have fallen before us.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 10:9 mean?
Isaiah 10:9 compares the destruction of various cities to illustrate the certainty of judgment for those who oppose God. It emphasizes that just as cities like Calno and Carchemish fell, others will also face consequences for their pride and rebellion.
What is the significance of the cities mentioned in Isaiah 10:9?
The cities Calno, Carchemish, Hamath, Arpad, Samaria, and Damascus represent nations that have faced conquest and destruction. Their mention serves as a warning that no city or nation is immune to divine judgment.
How does Isaiah 10:9 relate to pride and rebellion?
Isaiah 10:9 illustrates that pride and rebellion against God lead to downfall, as seen in the fate of the cities mentioned. The verse serves as a reminder that even the strongest can fall if they oppose divine will.
What lessons can we learn from Isaiah 10:9?
From Isaiah 10:9, we learn the importance of humility and alignment with God's will. It encourages self-reflection to avoid complacency and pride, reminding us that we depend on God for our security.

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.
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