Old Testament
Isaiah 37:27
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 37:27, the verse describes the state of a people who are utterly powerless and filled with fear.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
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.
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.
Verse Analysis
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.
Related Bible verses
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
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.
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.
Unlock the full Isaiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Isaiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 66 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Isaiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.