Old Testament

Isaiah 11:15

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, God is depicted as having the power to control nature, specifically the waters of the Egyptian sea and the river.

Author: Isaiah the prophet
Written: Around 700 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Judah and the surrounding nations

CBTClear Bible Translation

The LORD will completely destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea. With his mighty wind, he will wave his hand over the river and strike it into seven streams, allowing people to cross on dry ground.

KJVKing James Version

And the LORD shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dryshod.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God is depicted as having the power to control nature, specifically the waters of the Egyptian sea and the river. The 'tongue of the Egyptian sea' refers to a part of the sea that will be destroyed, symbolizing God's authority over the forces of nature. By using a mighty wind, God will divide the river into seven streams, making it possible for people to cross safely on dry ground. This imagery emphasizes God's ability to provide a way for His people, even in seemingly impossible situations. The act of crossing on dry ground is reminiscent of the Israelites' escape from Egypt, showcasing God's deliverance and protection. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His willingness to intervene in human affairs to fulfill His promises and lead His people to safety.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Isaiah 11:15 to your life

This verse encourages us to trust in God's power to overcome obstacles in our lives. Just as He parted the waters for His people, we can have faith that He will provide a way through our challenges. We should seek His guidance and remain hopeful in difficult times.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 11:15 mean?

Isaiah 11:15 describes God's power to control nature, specifically by destroying part of the Egyptian sea and dividing a river into seven streams. This imagery highlights God's authority and ability to provide a safe passage for His people.

What is the significance of the 'tongue of the Egyptian sea' in Isaiah 11:15?

The 'tongue of the Egyptian sea' symbolizes a specific area of the sea that God will destroy, demonstrating His sovereignty over natural forces and His capability to intervene for the benefit of His people.

What does the phrase 'cross on dry ground' in Isaiah 11:15 mean?

The phrase 'cross on dry ground' signifies God's miraculous provision, allowing people to safely cross the divided waters, reminiscent of the Israelites' escape from Egypt, showcasing His deliverance.

How does Isaiah 11:15 relate to God's protection?

Isaiah 11:15 illustrates God's protective nature by showing how He can clear a path through obstacles, reinforcing the idea that He intervenes in human affairs to ensure safety and fulfillment of His promises.

Book Summary

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.

The isles see and fear, and the ends of the earth draw near. Craftsmen encourage one another and strengthen idols with nails so they do not move. The LORD then speaks directly to Israel, calling him his servant, the seed of Abraham his friend. He tells Israel not to fear, for he is with him, and says he strengthens, helps, and upholds him with the right hand of his righteousness. He promises those who contend with Israel are as nothing, makes Israel a new sharp threshing instrument that threshes mountains, and answers the poor and needy by making rivers in high places and fountains in valleys. Isaiah 42: Behold My Servant The LORD presents his servant, whom he upholds and in whom his soul delights. He says he puts his spirit upon him and that he brings forth judgment to the Gentiles, not crying or lifting up his voice in the streets, and not breaking a bruised reed. The LORD says he calls him in righteousness, holds his hand, keeps him, and gives him for a covenant of the people and a light of the Gentiles. The LORD declares his glory he does not give to another nor his praise to graven images. He speaks of new things before they spring forth and calls for a new song from the ends of the earth. The chapter describes the LORD going forth as a mighty man and crying out against his enemies. It describes a people robbed and spoiled, snared in holes, yet not saying, “Restore,” and it says they do not lay it to heart. The LORD pours upon them fury of his anger and the strength of battle, yet they do not know or consider.

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