Old Testament
Isaiah 43:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 43:20, God declares that even the wild animals will recognize His greatness because He provides for His people in the most desolate places.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
The wild animals will honor me, the dragons and the owls, because I provide water in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, giving drink to my people, my chosen ones.
The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 43:20, God declares that even the wild animals will recognize His greatness because He provides for His people in the most desolate places. The mention of 'water in the wilderness' and 'rivers in the desert' symbolizes God's ability to bring life and sustenance where there seems to be none. This verse emphasizes God's care for His chosen people, showing that He meets their needs even in difficult circumstances. The reference to animals like dragons and owls highlights that all of creation acknowledges God's provision. It serves as a reminder that God is not only concerned with human beings but also with the entire ecosystem. This verse reassures believers that God is actively involved in their lives, providing for them in ways that may not always be visible or expected. It encourages trust in God's ability to transform barren situations into places of abundance and refreshment. Explore related anxiety.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 43:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's provision, especially during tough times. Just as He provides for His people, we can rely on Him to meet our needs. It reminds us to look for signs of His care in our lives, even in difficult circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 43:20 mean?
Isaiah 43:20 means that God provides for His people even in the most challenging situations, symbolized by water in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. It highlights God's care and ability to bring life where there seems to be none.
What is the significance of 'wild animals' in Isaiah 43:20?
The mention of 'wild animals' in Isaiah 43:20 signifies that all of creation recognizes and honors God's provision. It illustrates that God's care extends beyond humans to the entire ecosystem.
What does 'water in the wilderness' symbolize in Isaiah 43:20?
In Isaiah 43:20, 'water in the wilderness' symbolizes God's ability to provide sustenance and refreshment in desolate places. It represents hope and life in seemingly impossible situations.
How does Isaiah 43:20 relate to God's chosen people?
Isaiah 43:20 relates to God's chosen people by emphasizing that He actively meets their needs, even in difficult circumstances. It reassures believers of God's commitment to care for them.

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.
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