Old Testament
Isaiah 37:22
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Here is the word the LORD has spoken against him: The virgin daughter of Zion despises you and laughs at you. The daughter of Jerusalem shakes her head at you.
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This is the word which the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The virgin, the daughter of Zion, hath despised thee, and laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee.
What Isaiah 37:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:22, God delivers a message of scorn against the Assyrian king, who has threatened Jerusalem. The 'virgin daughter of Zion' symbolizes Jerusalem, representing its purity and strength. The imagery of laughter and shaking heads indicates that God’s people are not afraid of their enemy; instead, they mock him. This verse emphasizes that God is in control and will protect His people from those who oppose them. The use of 'virgin' suggests that Jerusalem remains untouched and will not be defeated. The scorn directed at the Assyrian king highlights the futility of his arrogance against God’s chosen city. This passage reassures the faithful that God sees their struggles and will respond to their plight, ultimately leading to their vindication and the downfall of their enemies.
How to apply Isaiah 37:22 to your life
When facing challenges or threats, remember that God is in control and will protect you. Instead of succumbing to fear, trust in His power and laugh at the adversity, knowing that He will ultimately bring justice and vindication. Stand firm in your faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (Isaiah 37:1–38)
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Isaiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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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 37:22 mean?
Isaiah 37:22 conveys God's message of scorn towards the Assyrian king, illustrating that Jerusalem, referred to as the 'virgin daughter of Zion,' will not be defeated. The verse emphasizes God's protection over His people and their confidence in mocking their enemy.
What is the significance of 'virgin daughter of Zion' in Isaiah 37:22?
The term 'virgin daughter of Zion' symbolizes Jerusalem's purity and strength, indicating that it remains untouched and secure under God's protection. It highlights the city's resilience against threats.
What does the laughter in Isaiah 37:22 represent?
The laughter in Isaiah 37:22 represents the scorn and confidence of God's people in the face of their enemy. It signifies that they are not intimidated by the Assyrian king's threats, as they trust in God's power.
How can I apply Isaiah 37:22 to my life?
You can apply Isaiah 37:22 by trusting in God's control during difficult times. Instead of fearing challenges, maintain your faith and confidence, knowing that God will bring justice and protect you.
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