Old Testament
Isaiah 37:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Because your rage against me and your tumult have reached my ears, I will put my hook in your nose and my bridle in your lips, and I will turn you back the way you came.
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Because thy rage against me, and thy tumult, is come up into mine ears, therefore will I put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.
What Isaiah 37:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:29, God addresses the Assyrian king, highlighting that He has heard the king's anger and threats against Him and His people. The imagery of putting a hook in the nose and a bridle in the lips symbolizes God's control over the king, suggesting that just as a farmer leads an animal with a bridle, God will lead the Assyrian king back to where he came from. This verse emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over nations and rulers, showing that no matter how powerful they may seem, they are ultimately under God's authority. The Assyrian king's rage is futile against the Almighty, and God will ensure that he cannot harm His people. This serves as a reminder that God listens to the cries of His people and will act on their behalf, demonstrating His protection and justice.
How to apply Isaiah 37:29 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty, especially when facing powerful adversaries or difficult situations. It reminds us that God is aware of our struggles and will intervene on our behalf. We can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and will protect us from harm.
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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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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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 37:29 mean?
Isaiah 37:29 means that God is addressing the Assyrian king, indicating that He has heard his anger and threats. The imagery of a hook and bridle symbolizes God's control over the king, showing that God will lead him back to where he came from, demonstrating His sovereignty over nations.
What is the significance of the hook in Isaiah 37:29?
The hook in Isaiah 37:29 signifies God's authority and control over the Assyrian king. Just as a hook can lead an animal, God is asserting that He will direct the king's actions and ensure he cannot harm His people.
What does the phrase 'turn you back the way you came' mean in Isaiah 37:29?
The phrase 'turn you back the way you came' in Isaiah 37:29 means that God will reverse the king's advances and send him back to his own territory, illustrating God's power to thwart the plans of those who oppose Him.
How does Isaiah 37:29 show God's protection of His people?
Isaiah 37:29 shows God's protection of His people by demonstrating that He listens to their cries and will intervene against their enemies. It reassures believers that God is actively working to safeguard them from harm.
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