Old Testament
Isaiah 17:6
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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.
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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.
What Isaiah 17:6 means
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.
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
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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 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.
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