Old Testament
Isaiah 13:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Therefore, every hand will become weak, and every man's heart will melt.
Compare translations
Therefore shall all hands be faint, and every man’s heart shall melt:
What Isaiah 13:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 13:7, the prophet describes a time of great fear and despair. The imagery of weak hands and melting hearts signifies a loss of strength and courage among people facing impending judgment or disaster. This verse reflects the emotional and physical toll that overwhelming circumstances can have on individuals. It serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the fear that grips those who realize the severity of their situation. The melting of hearts indicates a deep sense of hopelessness and vulnerability, suggesting that in times of crisis, people may feel powerless and afraid. This passage emphasizes the need for reliance on God, especially in difficult times, as human strength alone is insufficient to face the challenges of life.
How to apply Isaiah 13:7 to your life
In our lives, we may encounter situations that leave us feeling weak and fearful. This verse reminds us to turn to God for strength and courage. Instead of succumbing to despair, we can seek support through prayer and community, trusting that God can empower us in our moments of weakness.
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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 13:7
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 13:7
Related Bible verses
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 13:7 mean?
Isaiah 13:7 describes a time of fear and despair, where people's strength and courage fail them in the face of impending judgment or disaster. It highlights the emotional impact of overwhelming circumstances.
What is the significance of 'weak hands' in Isaiah 13:7?
The phrase 'weak hands' in Isaiah 13:7 symbolizes a loss of strength and ability to act, reflecting the fear and helplessness people feel during times of crisis or judgment.
What does 'every man's heart will melt' mean in Isaiah 13:7?
The expression 'every man's heart will melt' indicates a deep sense of hopelessness and vulnerability, suggesting that individuals may feel powerless and afraid when confronted with dire situations.
How can Isaiah 13:7 apply to our lives today?
Isaiah 13:7 reminds us that we may face moments of weakness and fear, encouraging us to seek strength through prayer and community, trusting in God's support during challenging times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.