Old Testament
Isaiah 14:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You won't be given a proper burial like other kings, because you destroyed your own land and slaughtered your own people. The descendants of evildoers will never be renowned.
Compare translations
Thou shalt not be joined with them in burial, because thou hast destroyed thy land, and slain thy people: the seed of evildoers shall never be renowned.
What Isaiah 14:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Isaiah speaks about the fate of a ruler who has caused great destruction and suffering. It emphasizes that such a ruler will not receive the honor of a proper burial, which was a significant mark of respect in ancient cultures. Instead, their legacy will be one of shame, as they have harmed their own people and land. The phrase 'the seed of evildoers shall never be renowned' suggests that the descendants of this ruler will also be looked down upon and will not achieve greatness. This serves as a warning about the consequences of evil actions and the importance of leadership that prioritizes the well-being of the people. The verse highlights the idea that those who act unjustly will ultimately face disgrace, and their actions will have lasting repercussions on their legacy and family.
How to apply Isaiah 14:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of ethical leadership and the long-term effects of our actions. As leaders or individuals, we should strive to act justly and care for those we influence, understanding that our choices shape not only our legacy but also the lives of others.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 14:20
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 14:20
Related Bible verses
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 14:20 mean?
Isaiah 14:20 means that a ruler who has caused destruction and suffering will not receive the honor of a proper burial. Instead, their legacy will be one of shame, affecting not only them but also their descendants.
What is the significance of not receiving a proper burial in Isaiah 14:20?
Not receiving a proper burial signifies a lack of respect and honor, which was important in ancient cultures. It indicates that the ruler's actions have led to disgrace, impacting their legacy negatively.
What does 'the seed of evildoers shall never be renowned' mean?
This phrase means that the descendants of the ruler will also be looked down upon and will not achieve greatness. It highlights the lasting impact of evil actions on future generations.
What themes are present in Isaiah 14:20?
The themes in Isaiah 14:20 include the consequences of evil, the legacy of leadership, destruction and shame, judgment on rulers, and the impact of actions on future generations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.