Old Testament
Isaiah 44:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 44:13, the verse describes the detailed work of a carpenter who carefully measures and shapes wood to create a figure of a man.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
The woodworker stretches out a measuring line and marks the outline with a pencil. He shapes it with chisels and traces it with a compass, carving it into the figure of a man, according to the beauty of a man, so that it may remain in the house.
The carpenter stretcheth out his rule; he marketh it out with a line; he fitteth it with planes, and he marketh it out with the compass, and maketh it after the figure of a man, according to the beauty of a man; that it may remain in the house.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 44:13, the verse describes the detailed work of a carpenter who carefully measures and shapes wood to create a figure of a man. This process involves using tools like a measuring line, chisels, and a compass to ensure precision and beauty in the final product. The imagery highlights the skill and artistry involved in craftsmanship, suggesting that the created figure is intended to be a lasting presence in a home. This verse serves as a metaphor for the way humans create and shape their lives, reflecting the care and intention that should go into our own creations and relationships. It also contrasts the work of human hands with the divine creation of God, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the source of true beauty and purpose in life.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 44:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach our work and relationships with intention and care, just as the carpenter meticulously shapes his creation. It reminds us to value the beauty in our efforts and to recognize the importance of creating lasting impacts in our lives and the lives of others.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 44:13 mean?
Isaiah 44:13 describes a carpenter who carefully measures and shapes wood to create a figure of a man. This verse illustrates the skill and artistry involved in craftsmanship, highlighting the intention behind creating something beautiful and lasting.
What is the significance of the carpenter in Isaiah 44:13?
The carpenter in Isaiah 44:13 symbolizes human creativity and effort in shaping objects of beauty. His meticulous work serves as a metaphor for the care and intention we should apply in our own lives and relationships.
What tools are mentioned in Isaiah 44:13?
Isaiah 44:13 mentions several tools used by the carpenter, including a measuring line, chisels, and a compass. These tools emphasize the precision and skill required in the art of woodworking.
How does Isaiah 44:13 relate to human creation?
Isaiah 44:13 relates to human creation by illustrating how we shape our lives and relationships with intention and care, similar to how the carpenter shapes wood. It encourages us to recognize the beauty in our efforts.

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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