Old Testament
Isaiah 37:27
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Their people were powerless, terrified and humiliated. They were like grass in a field, like tender green plants, like grass sprouting on a rooftop — scorched before it can even grow.
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Therefore their inhabitants were of small power, they were dismayed and confounded: they were as the grass of the field, and as the green herb, as the grass on the housetops, and as corn blasted before it be grown up.
What Isaiah 37:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:27, the verse describes the state of a people who are utterly powerless and filled with fear. The imagery of grass and tender plants illustrates their vulnerability and fragility. Just as grass can be easily scorched and destroyed, these people are depicted as being in a situation where they cannot withstand the pressures and threats they face. The comparison to grass on rooftops emphasizes their lack of stability and strength, as such grass cannot grow properly and is easily damaged. This verse serves to highlight the hopelessness and despair of those who are overwhelmed by their circumstances, showing that without divine intervention, they are destined for failure and humiliation.
How to apply Isaiah 37:27 to your life
This verse reminds us of our own vulnerabilities and the times we may feel powerless. It encourages us to seek strength and support from God, especially in difficult situations. Recognizing our limitations can lead us to rely more on faith and divine guidance, rather than solely on our own abilities.
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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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Isaiah 37:27
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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 37:27 mean?
Isaiah 37:27 describes a people who are powerless and filled with fear, using imagery of grass to illustrate their vulnerability. It emphasizes their inability to withstand challenges and highlights their need for divine help.
What is the meaning of powerlessness in Isaiah 37:27?
In Isaiah 37:27, powerlessness refers to the state of the people who are overwhelmed and unable to defend themselves against threats. The verse uses natural imagery to show their fragility and lack of strength.
What does the imagery of grass in Isaiah 37:27 signify?
The imagery of grass in Isaiah 37:27 signifies fragility and vulnerability. Just as grass can be easily scorched and destroyed, the people described are depicted as weak and unable to withstand their challenges.
How does Isaiah 37:27 relate to feelings of fear?
Isaiah 37:27 relates to feelings of fear by portraying a group of people who are terrified and humiliated. Their comparison to easily damaged grass highlights how fear can leave individuals feeling powerless and exposed.
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