Old Testament
Isaiah 38:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Look, I had great bitterness instead of peace, but in your love for my soul, you delivered it from the pit of corruption, for you have cast all my sins behind your back.
Compare translations
Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back.
What Isaiah 38:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker reflects on a time of deep sorrow and bitterness, contrasting it with the peace they now experience. They acknowledge that it was God's love that rescued them from despair and corruption. The imagery of casting sins behind one's back signifies God's willingness to forgive and forget past wrongs, emphasizing His grace and mercy. This transformation from bitterness to peace illustrates the profound impact of divine love and forgiveness on a person's life. The speaker recognizes that despite their struggles, God's intervention has brought healing and restoration, allowing them to move forward without the burden of guilt. This verse serves as a reminder of the hope and renewal that can come from faith in God, highlighting the importance of trusting in His love and forgiveness during difficult times.
How to apply Isaiah 38:17 to your life
When facing bitterness or despair, remember that God's love can bring healing and peace. Reflect on the forgiveness you have received and let go of past mistakes. Trust in God's ability to transform your situation and restore your soul.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: Hezekiah's Illness (Isaiah 38:1–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Isaiah
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 38:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 38:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 38:17 mean by 'great bitterness instead of peace'?
In Isaiah 38:17, the phrase 'great bitterness instead of peace' reflects a time of deep sorrow and distress experienced by the speaker. This contrast highlights the emotional turmoil they faced before experiencing God's love and intervention, which ultimately led to a restoration of peace in their life.
How does God's love deliver us from the 'pit of corruption'?
God's love delivers us from the 'pit of corruption' by offering forgiveness and redemption. This metaphor suggests that when we are trapped in sin or despair, God's grace can lift us out of that darkness, cleanse us from our wrongdoings, and restore our relationship with Him, allowing us to experience true healing and renewal.
How can I apply the message of Isaiah 38:17 in my life?
To apply the message of Isaiah 38:17, focus on recognizing and accepting God's love and forgiveness in your life. When you feel bitterness or despair, reflect on the healing power of faith and trust in God's ability to transform your situation. Let go of past mistakes and embrace the peace that comes from knowing you are forgiven.
What themes are present in Isaiah 38:17?
Isaiah 38:17 encompasses several key themes, including bitterness, peace, divine love, forgiveness, redemption, and hope. These themes illustrate the transformative power of God's love and the importance of trusting in His grace during difficult times, emphasizing that healing and restoration are possible through faith.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.