Old Testament
Isaiah 31:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Like birds flying, the LORD of hosts will defend Jerusalem; he will defend and deliver it; he will pass over and preserve it.
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As birds flying, so will the LORD of hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also he will deliver it; and passing over he will preserve it.
What Isaiah 31:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 31:5, the imagery of birds flying is used to illustrate God's protective nature over Jerusalem. Just as birds instinctively shield their young from danger, God promises to defend and deliver His people from threats. The verse emphasizes His active role in safeguarding Jerusalem, ensuring that it is not only defended but also preserved. This assurance of divine protection highlights God's commitment to His people, showing that He will intervene in their struggles. The phrase 'passing over' suggests a careful oversight, indicating that God will not only protect but also maintain the well-being of Jerusalem. This passage reassures the people of Israel that despite their fears and challenges, they can trust in God's unwavering support and deliverance, reinforcing the idea that God is a refuge in times of trouble.
How to apply Isaiah 31:5 to your life
In our lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God actively protects and delivers us from our struggles. When facing challenges, we should remember to trust in His presence and guidance, just as Jerusalem relied on Him. This encourages us to seek refuge in God during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 31:5 mean?
Isaiah 31:5 uses the imagery of birds flying to illustrate God's protective nature over Jerusalem. It conveys that God will actively defend and deliver His people, ensuring their safety and well-being.
What is the meaning of 'passing over' in Isaiah 31:5?
In Isaiah 31:5, 'passing over' suggests God's careful oversight and protection of Jerusalem. It indicates that God will not only defend the city but also maintain its well-being.
How does Isaiah 31:5 relate to faith in adversity?
Isaiah 31:5 encourages faith in adversity by reminding us that God actively protects and delivers us during difficult times, just as He promised to safeguard Jerusalem.
What themes are present in Isaiah 31:5?
Key themes in Isaiah 31:5 include divine protection, God's deliverance, assurance of safety, and hope for Jerusalem, highlighting God's commitment to His people.
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