Old Testament
Isaiah 42:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He will not fail or be discouraged until he has established judgment on the earth, and the islands will wait for his law.
Compare translations
He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.
What Isaiah 42:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse speaks about a figure who will not give up or lose hope until he has brought justice to the world. The term 'judgment' here refers to a fair and righteous order that he will establish. The mention of 'islands' waiting for his law suggests that his influence will reach far and wide, impacting even the most distant places. This figure embodies perseverance and commitment to a cause, indicating that he will continue his work despite challenges. The verse highlights the importance of justice and the expectation that people everywhere will look to him for guidance and moral direction. It emphasizes a future where fairness prevails, and all nations will recognize and adhere to his teachings. This promise of justice is a source of hope for many, as it assures that righteousness will ultimately triumph.
How to apply Isaiah 42:4 to your life
In our daily lives, we can draw inspiration from this verse by committing to our values and not giving up in the face of adversity. We should strive to promote justice and fairness in our communities, knowing that our efforts contribute to a larger purpose. By embodying these principles, we can be a source of hope for others.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 42:4
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 42:4
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 42:4 mean by 'judgment'?
In Isaiah 42:4, 'judgment' refers to a fair and righteous order that the figure will establish on earth. This encompasses justice, moral integrity, and the implementation of laws that promote equity and fairness among people. It signifies a time when wrongs will be righted and a just system will prevail.
Who is the figure mentioned in Isaiah 42:4?
The figure in Isaiah 42:4 is often interpreted as a prophetic reference to the Messiah or a servant of God who will bring justice and righteousness to the world. This figure embodies qualities of perseverance and commitment, ensuring that justice is established and upheld.
How can we apply Isaiah 42:4 in our lives today?
We can apply Isaiah 42:4 by committing to our values of justice and fairness in our daily interactions. This means standing up for what is right, advocating for those who are marginalized, and working towards a more equitable society. By embodying these principles, we can inspire hope and contribute to a greater purpose.
What does 'the islands will wait for his law' signify?
The phrase 'the islands will wait for his law' signifies the far-reaching influence of the figure's teachings and justice. It implies that his impact will extend beyond local communities to distant lands, indicating a universal expectation for guidance and moral direction. This reflects the idea that all nations will look to him for wisdom and righteousness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.