Old Testament
Isaiah 19:10
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And those who make sluices and ponds for fish shall be broken in their purposes.
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And they shall be broken in the purposes thereof, all that make sluices and ponds for fish.
What Isaiah 19:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 19:10, the verse speaks about the futility of the efforts of those who create sluices and ponds for fish. This imagery reflects a broader theme of disappointment and failure in human endeavors, particularly in the context of Egypt's reliance on its own resources and skills. The 'sluices and ponds' symbolize the agricultural and economic systems that people depend on. However, the prophecy indicates that these efforts will ultimately fail, suggesting that without divine support, human plans are destined to collapse. This serves as a warning against self-sufficiency and pride, emphasizing the need for reliance on God rather than solely on human ingenuity. The verse highlights the transient nature of human achievements when they are not aligned with God's will.
How to apply Isaiah 19:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our own plans and ambitions. Are we relying solely on our abilities, or are we seeking God's guidance in our endeavors? It reminds us to remain humble and recognize that true success comes from aligning our goals with God's purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
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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 19:10 mean?
Isaiah 19:10 conveys that the efforts of those who build sluices and ponds for fish will ultimately fail. This reflects a broader theme of disappointment in human endeavors, particularly in Egypt's reliance on its own resources without divine support.
What is the significance of sluices and ponds in Isaiah 19:10?
In Isaiah 19:10, sluices and ponds symbolize the agricultural and economic systems that people depend on. The verse indicates that these human efforts will be futile without God's guidance and support.
How does Isaiah 19:10 relate to dependence on God?
Isaiah 19:10 emphasizes the need for reliance on God rather than solely on human ingenuity. It highlights that true success comes from aligning our efforts with God's purpose.
What themes are present in Isaiah 19:10?
The themes in Isaiah 19:10 include the futility of human efforts, divine judgment, dependence on God, and the transient nature of human achievements when not aligned with God's will.
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