Old Testament

Isaiah 17:6

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

At a Glance

In Isaiah 17:6, the imagery of gleaning grapes and shaking an olive tree illustrates the remnants that remain after a significant judgment or destruction.

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

Yet some gleaning grapes will be left, like when an olive tree is shaken: two or three berries at the top of the highest branch, four or five on the outer fruitful branches, says the LORD God of Israel.

KJVKing James Version

Yet gleaning grapes shall be left in it, as the shaking of an olive tree, two or three berries in the top of the uppermost bough, four or five in the outmost fruitful branches thereof, saith the LORD God of Israel.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Isaiah 17:6, the imagery of gleaning grapes and shaking an olive tree illustrates the remnants that remain after a significant judgment or destruction. Just as an olive tree, when shaken, leaves behind a few olives, so too will there be a small remnant of people or blessings left after God's judgment on Israel. This verse emphasizes God's mercy, showing that even in times of great loss, He preserves a small portion of His people. The mention of 'two or three berries' and 'four or five' signifies that while the majority may be lost, there is still hope and continuity. This remnant serves as a sign of God's faithfulness and the possibility of restoration. It reassures the faithful that God does not completely abandon His people, even in dire circumstances, and that He can bring new life and hope from what remains.

Key themes

Related topics

judgment, restoration, hope

How to apply Isaiah 17:6 to your life

In our lives, we may face difficult times that feel overwhelming. This verse reminds us that even in hardship, God leaves us with hope and a chance for renewal. We should look for the small blessings and remain faithful, trusting in God's plan for restoration.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 17:6 mean?

Isaiah 17:6 uses the imagery of gleaning grapes and shaking an olive tree to illustrate that after a significant judgment, a small remnant will remain. This signifies God's mercy, showing that even in destruction, He preserves a portion of His people.

What is the significance of the remnant in Isaiah 17:6?

The remnant in Isaiah 17:6 represents hope and continuity after judgment. It highlights God's faithfulness, indicating that He does not completely abandon His people, even in difficult times.

What does the phrase 'gleaning grapes' mean in Isaiah 17:6?

The phrase 'gleaning grapes' refers to the small amount of fruit left after harvesting. In this context, it symbolizes the few people or blessings that remain after God's judgment.

How does Isaiah 17:6 relate to God's mercy?

Isaiah 17:6 illustrates God's mercy by showing that despite judgment, He allows a remnant to survive. This serves as a reminder that there is always hope and the possibility of restoration.

The Book of Isaiah
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.

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