Old Testament
Isaiah 28:22
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 Lord warns those who mock or dismiss His messages.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
So stop your mocking now, or your chains will only get tighter. I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts about a destruction that is planned for the whole earth.
Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Lord warns those who mock or dismiss His messages. The term 'mockers' refers to people who ridicule or take lightly the serious warnings from God. The verse emphasizes that such attitudes can lead to greater consequences, symbolized by 'bands' or chains that become tighter. This suggests that ignoring divine warnings can lead to increased suffering or bondage. The mention of a 'destruction' planned for the whole earth indicates a serious judgment that God has determined. This serves as a reminder that God's plans are not to be taken lightly, and those who mock His words may find themselves facing dire consequences. The overall message is a call to take God's warnings seriously and to repent from mocking His truth, as ignoring it can lead to a more difficult situation in the future.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 28:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to take God's messages seriously and to avoid a mocking attitude towards spiritual truths. It reminds us that dismissing warnings can lead to greater troubles. Instead, we should approach God's word with reverence and a willingness to change our ways if necessary.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 28:22 mean?
Isaiah 28:22 warns against mocking God's messages, indicating that such attitudes can lead to increased suffering or bondage. It emphasizes the seriousness of divine warnings and the consequences of ignoring them.
What is the significance of 'mockers' in Isaiah 28:22?
In Isaiah 28:22, 'mockers' refers to those who ridicule or dismiss God's warnings. The verse highlights that this mocking attitude can result in tighter chains or greater difficulties in life.
What does 'bands be made strong' mean in Isaiah 28:22?
The phrase 'bands be made strong' in Isaiah 28:22 suggests that ignoring God's warnings can lead to increased bondage or suffering. It serves as a metaphor for the consequences of taking divine messages lightly.
What is the warning in Isaiah 28:22?
The warning in Isaiah 28:22 is to take God's messages seriously and not to mock them. Ignoring these warnings can lead to dire consequences, as indicated by the mention of planned destruction for the whole earth.

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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