Old Testament
Isaiah 29:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 29:2, God speaks about bringing distress to Ariel, which is a symbolic name for Jerusalem.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
But I will bring distress on Ariel, and there will be mourning and sorrow. It will be to me as Ariel.
Yet I will distress Ariel, and there shall be heaviness and sorrow: and it shall be unto me as Ariel.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 29:2, God speaks about bringing distress to Ariel, which is a symbolic name for Jerusalem. The verse indicates that the city will experience mourning and sorrow, reflecting the consequences of its people's actions and disobedience. The term 'Ariel' can mean 'lion of God' or 'altar hearth,' suggesting a place of significance that will face judgment. This distress is not just physical but also spiritual, as the people will feel the weight of their sins. God’s intention is to bring them to a point of realization about their need for repentance and restoration. The mourning and sorrow signify a time of reckoning, where the people must confront their failures and turn back to God for healing and redemption. This verse serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the inevitable consequences that follow, but it also opens the door for hope and restoration if the people choose to return to Him.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 29:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the consequences of our actions. Just as Jerusalem faced distress for its disobedience, we too must recognize the importance of aligning our lives with God's will. It serves as a reminder to seek repentance and restoration in our relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 29:2 mean?
Isaiah 29:2 speaks about God bringing distress to Ariel, a symbolic name for Jerusalem, indicating that the city will face mourning and sorrow due to the people's disobedience. This verse highlights the consequences of turning away from God and the need for repentance.
What is the significance of 'Ariel' in Isaiah 29:2?
In Isaiah 29:2, 'Ariel' can mean 'lion of God' or 'altar hearth,' symbolizing Jerusalem's importance. The use of this name emphasizes the city's spiritual significance and the judgment it faces for its actions.
How does Isaiah 29:2 relate to repentance?
Isaiah 29:2 illustrates the distress that comes from disobedience, prompting a call for repentance. The mourning and sorrow experienced by the people signify the need to confront their failures and seek restoration with God.
What themes are present in Isaiah 29:2?
The themes in Isaiah 29:2 include judgment, distress, repentance, and spiritual awakening. It highlights the serious consequences of turning away from God while also offering a path to healing through repentance.

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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