Old Testament
Isaiah 28:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the people are expressing a false sense of security by claiming they have made a deal with death and the grave, believing that they will be safe from disaster.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Because you have said, 'We have made a covenant with death, and with hell we are in agreement; when the overwhelming scourge passes through, it will not reach us, for we have made lies our refuge and have hidden ourselves under falsehood.'
Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the people are expressing a false sense of security by claiming they have made a deal with death and the grave, believing that they will be safe from disaster. They think that when calamity strikes, it will not affect them because they have relied on deceit and falsehoods for protection. This reflects a deep misunderstanding of reality, as they are ignoring the consequences of their actions and the truth of their situation. Instead of seeking genuine safety through righteousness and truth, they have chosen to trust in lies, which ultimately leads to their downfall. The verse serves as a warning against relying on false assurances and highlights the importance of facing the truth rather than hiding behind illusions. Explore related deception.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 28:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine where we place our trust. Instead of relying on falsehoods or superficial agreements, we should seek truth and righteousness. Building our lives on honesty and integrity will provide true security and protection in times of trouble.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 28:15 mean?
Isaiah 28:15 means that the people are falsely believing they are safe from disaster because they have made a deceptive agreement with death and the grave. They think that relying on lies will protect them from calamity, but this mindset leads to their eventual downfall.
What is the significance of the covenant with death in Isaiah 28:15?
The covenant with death in Isaiah 28:15 signifies a misguided attempt to find security through falsehoods. It highlights the danger of ignoring reality and believing that deceit can shield one from the consequences of their actions.
What does the phrase 'made lies our refuge' mean in Isaiah 28:15?
The phrase 'made lies our refuge' in Isaiah 28:15 means that the people are choosing to rely on falsehoods for protection instead of seeking truth. This reliance on deception ultimately leaves them vulnerable to the very dangers they believe they can avoid.
How does Isaiah 28:15 relate to the theme of judgment?
Isaiah 28:15 relates to the theme of judgment by illustrating how the people's false sense of security will lead to their downfall. Their reliance on lies instead of truth invites consequences, emphasizing that ignoring reality can result in severe repercussions.

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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