Old Testament

Isaiah 14:21

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse from Isaiah speaks about the consequences of sin, particularly how the actions of parents can affect their children.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

Prepare a place of slaughter for his sons because of their fathers' sins, so they do not rise, possess the land, or fill the world with their cities.

KJVKing James Version

Prepare slaughter for his children for the iniquity of their fathers; that they do not rise, nor possess the land, nor fill the face of the world with cities.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse from Isaiah speaks about the consequences of sin, particularly how the actions of parents can affect their children. It emphasizes the idea that the sins of the fathers lead to judgment upon their descendants. The call to prepare a place of slaughter indicates a severe punishment for those who continue in the ways of their forebears. The intent is to prevent these children from rising up, claiming the land, or establishing cities, which symbolizes power and influence. This reflects a broader theme in the Bible where the consequences of sin can extend beyond the individual to their family and community. The verse serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and its repercussions, highlighting the importance of righteousness and the need for accountability in one's actions. It underscores the belief that God holds individuals and their families responsible for their choices, urging a turn towards righteousness to avoid such dire outcomes.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Isaiah 14:21 to your life

This verse reminds us of the importance of living a life of integrity and righteousness, not just for ourselves but for future generations. We should strive to break negative cycles of behavior and sin in our families, seeking to create a legacy of faith and obedience to God.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 14:21 mean?

Isaiah 14:21 warns about the consequences of sin, specifically how the sins of parents can lead to judgment on their children. It emphasizes that the actions of one generation can affect the next, resulting in severe punishment for those who continue in sinful ways.

What is the significance of 'prepare slaughter' in Isaiah 14:21?

The phrase 'prepare slaughter' in Isaiah 14:21 signifies a call for judgment against those who perpetuate the sins of their ancestors. It indicates a severe consequence meant to prevent these descendants from gaining power or influence.

What does 'the iniquity of their fathers' refer to in Isaiah 14:21?

In Isaiah 14:21, 'the iniquity of their fathers' refers to the sinful actions and behaviors of previous generations that lead to judgment on their descendants. It highlights the idea that the consequences of sin can extend beyond the individual.

What themes are present in Isaiah 14:21?

Isaiah 14:21 presents themes such as the consequences of sin, generational impact, judgment, righteousness, and divine accountability. These themes illustrate the seriousness of sin and its effects on families and communities.

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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