Old Testament
Isaiah 20:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 20:6, the people living on the coast are expressing their despair and confusion about their situation.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
When that day comes, the people living along this coastland will say, 'Look at what happened to the ones we counted on! We ran to them for help, hoping they would save us from the king of Assyria. Now how will we ever escape?'"
And the inhabitant of this isle shall say in that day, Behold, such is our expectation, whither we flee for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria: and how shall we escape?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 20:6, the people living on the coast are expressing their despair and confusion about their situation. They had relied on certain allies for protection against the Assyrian threat, but now they realize that those allies have failed them. This verse captures a moment of realization where the inhabitants understand that their expectations for help were misplaced. They are left questioning how they will escape the impending danger, highlighting their vulnerability and the futility of their reliance on human strength rather than on God. This reflects a broader theme in Isaiah about the consequences of turning away from divine guidance and trusting in worldly powers. The verse serves as a warning about misplaced trust and the importance of seeking true security in God rather than in unreliable sources.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 20:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate where we place our trust in times of trouble. Instead of relying solely on human solutions or allies, we should seek God's guidance and strength. It reminds us that true security comes from faith in God, especially when facing overwhelming challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 20:6 mean?
Isaiah 20:6 expresses the despair of coastal inhabitants who realize their allies have failed to protect them from the Assyrian threat. They question how they will escape the danger, highlighting the futility of relying on human strength instead of trusting in God.
What is the significance of misplaced trust in Isaiah 20:6?
The verse illustrates the consequences of relying on unreliable allies for protection. It serves as a reminder that placing trust in human solutions can lead to disappointment and vulnerability in times of crisis.
What themes are present in Isaiah 20:6?
Key themes in Isaiah 20:6 include despair, misplaced trust, human vulnerability, and the need for divine protection. The verse emphasizes the importance of seeking true security in God rather than in worldly powers.
How does Isaiah 20:6 relate to seeking help?
Isaiah 20:6 highlights the danger of turning to the wrong sources for help. It encourages individuals to reflect on where they seek assistance, suggesting that true help comes from faith in God.

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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