Old Testament
Isaiah 16:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Let my outcasts find shelter with you, Moab. Be a hiding place for them from the destroyer." For the oppressor will come to an end, the destruction will stop, and those who trample others will be wiped from the land.
Compare translations
Let mine outcasts dwell with thee, Moab; be thou a covert to them from the face of the spoiler: for the extortioner is at an end, the spoiler ceaseth, the oppressors are consumed out of the land.
What Isaiah 16:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is addressing Moab, urging them to provide refuge for the outcasts of Israel. These outcasts are those who have been marginalized and oppressed, seeking safety from their enemies. Isaiah reassures Moab that the time of oppression will soon end, and the destroyers will be removed from the land. This message highlights a hope for restoration and peace, emphasizing that the cycle of violence and oppression will not last forever. The call for Moab to be a shelter reflects a desire for compassion and solidarity among nations, especially during times of crisis. It underscores the importance of providing safety and support to those in need, as well as the eventual triumph of justice over tyranny.
How to apply Isaiah 16:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to be a source of refuge for those who are marginalized or oppressed in our communities. We can offer support, kindness, and a safe space for those in need. By standing against injustice and helping others, we contribute to a more compassionate society.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 16:4
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 16:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 16:4 mean?
Isaiah 16:4 is a plea for Moab to provide refuge for the outcasts of Israel, who are seeking safety from their oppressors. The verse conveys a message of hope that oppression will eventually cease and that compassion should be extended to those in need.
What is the significance of 'outcasts' in Isaiah 16:4?
The term 'outcasts' in Isaiah 16:4 refers to those marginalized and oppressed individuals from Israel who are seeking shelter and safety. This highlights the importance of providing support and refuge to vulnerable populations during times of crisis.
What does 'be a hiding place' mean in Isaiah 16:4?
'Be a hiding place' in Isaiah 16:4 means to offer protection and safety to those who are fleeing from danger. It emphasizes the call for Moab to act as a sanctuary for the oppressed, reflecting the need for solidarity and compassion.
What is the overall message of Isaiah 16:4?
The overall message of Isaiah 16:4 is a call for compassion and refuge for the oppressed, assuring that the time of oppression will come to an end. It encourages nations to support one another and highlights the hope for restoration and peace.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.