Old Testament
Isaiah 22:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 22:16, the prophet questions a person who has created a grand tomb for themselves, suggesting a sense of pride and self-importance.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
What do you have here, and who do you have here, that you have carved out a tomb for yourself here, like someone who cuts out a tomb on high and carves a dwelling for himself in a rock?
What hast thou here? and whom hast thou here, that thou hast hewed thee out a sepulchre here, as he that heweth him out a sepulchre on high, and that graveth an habitation for himself in a rock?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 22:16, the prophet questions a person who has created a grand tomb for themselves, suggesting a sense of pride and self-importance. The imagery of carving a tomb in a high place indicates a desire for recognition and permanence, as if the individual believes they can secure their legacy through their own efforts. This verse serves as a reminder of the futility of seeking glory and status through material means, especially when it comes to death and legacy. The act of hewing a sepulchre in rock symbolizes a misguided attempt to control one's fate and be remembered, but it ultimately highlights the transient nature of life and the importance of humility before God. The rhetorical questions challenge the reader to reflect on their own pursuits and the motivations behind them, urging a reconsideration of what truly matters in life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 22:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our motivations for seeking recognition and status. Instead of focusing on building our own legacy, we should prioritize humility and service to others. True significance comes from our relationship with God and how we impact those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 22:16 mean?
Isaiah 22:16 questions a person who has built an elaborate tomb for themselves, highlighting themes of pride and the desire for recognition. It suggests that such efforts to secure a legacy are ultimately futile, as life is transient and true significance comes from humility before God.
What is the significance of carving a tomb in Isaiah 22:16?
The act of carving a tomb in Isaiah 22:16 symbolizes a misguided attempt to achieve permanence and recognition after death. It reflects a person's desire for glory and status, which the verse critiques as ultimately meaningless.
What does the phrase 'hewed thee out a sepulchre' mean in Isaiah 22:16?
The phrase 'hewed thee out a sepulchre' refers to the act of creating a grand burial place, indicating a person's ambition to be remembered. It emphasizes the futility of seeking to control one's legacy through material means.
How can Isaiah 22:16 be applied to daily life?
Isaiah 22:16 encourages individuals to reflect on their motivations for seeking recognition and status. It suggests that instead of focusing on personal legacy, one should prioritize humility and the impact they have on others.
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