Old Testament
Isaiah 43:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But now, this is what the LORD says — the one who created you, Jacob, the one who formed you, Israel: "Don't be afraid, because I have redeemed you. I have called you by name. You are mine."
Compare translations
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
What Isaiah 43:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reassures His people, represented by Jacob and Israel, of their identity and value. He emphasizes that He is their creator and has a personal relationship with them. The phrase 'Don't be afraid' highlights God's desire for His people to trust Him, despite their fears. The assurance of redemption signifies that God has saved them from their troubles and sin. By calling them by name, He expresses a deep, personal connection, indicating that they are not just a group but individuals cherished by Him. This verse serves as a reminder of God's protective and loving nature, encouraging believers to find comfort in their identity as His own.
How to apply Isaiah 43:1 to your life
When facing fear or uncertainty, remember that you are valued and known by God. Embrace your identity as His beloved. Trust in His promises of redemption and protection, allowing this truth to bring you peace and confidence in challenging times.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

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 43:1
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 43:1
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 43:1 mean for my personal identity?
Isaiah 43:1 emphasizes that God knows you personally and values you as an individual. By stating 'I have called you by name,' it reassures you that you are not just part of a crowd but cherished and significant in God's eyes. This verse encourages you to embrace your identity as a beloved child of God, which can provide comfort and confidence in your daily life.
How can I apply Isaiah 43:1 when I'm afraid?
When fear arises, Isaiah 43:1 reminds you to trust in God's promises. The phrase 'Don't be afraid' encourages you to lean on your relationship with God, who has redeemed you and is always with you. Reflect on His past faithfulness and allow this assurance to replace your fears with peace, knowing that you are valued and protected by Him.
What does redemption mean in Isaiah 43:1?
In Isaiah 43:1, redemption refers to God's act of saving His people from sin and their troubles. It signifies that God has intervened in your life to restore you and bring you back into a right relationship with Him. This assurance of redemption highlights God's love and commitment to you, encouraging you to trust in His ongoing support and guidance.
Why does God say 'You are mine' in Isaiah 43:1?
When God declares 'You are mine' in Isaiah 43:1, He is affirming a deep, personal relationship with His people. This statement signifies ownership, love, and protection. It reassures you that you belong to God, who cares for you intimately and desires to guide you through life's challenges, reinforcing your sense of security and belonging.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.