Old Testament
Isaiah 47:1
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 47:1, the prophet addresses Babylon, personified as a virgin daughter, symbolizing her former purity and strength.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Come down and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of Babylon; sit on the ground. There is no throne, O daughter of the Chaldeans, for you will no longer be called tender and delicate.
Come down, and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of Babylon, sit on the ground: there is no throne, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called tender and delicate.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 47:1, the prophet addresses Babylon, personified as a virgin daughter, symbolizing her former purity and strength. The call to 'come down and sit in the dust' signifies a fall from power and dignity. Babylon, once a mighty empire, is now being warned that her reign is over, and she will no longer enjoy the luxuries and status she once had. The phrase 'no throne' emphasizes the complete loss of authority and respect. The term 'tender and delicate' reflects how Babylon was perceived in its prime, but this will change as judgment is pronounced. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and the inevitable downfall of those who oppose God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 47:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain humble and recognize that pride can lead to downfall. It serves as a reminder that no earthly power is permanent and that we should seek to align ourselves with God's will rather than pursuing our own ambitions.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 47:1 mean by 'come down and sit in the dust'?
In Isaiah 47:1, the phrase 'come down and sit in the dust' symbolizes a fall from power and dignity. It signifies that Babylon, once a powerful empire, is being called to recognize its downfall and loss of status. The imagery of dust reflects humiliation and a stark contrast to the former glory of Babylon, emphasizing the consequences of pride and rebellion against God.
Who is the 'virgin daughter of Babylon' in this verse?
The 'virgin daughter of Babylon' is a personification of the city of Babylon, representing its former purity, strength, and beauty. This title highlights how Babylon was once seen as a powerful and untouchable entity, but the verse indicates that this status is about to change drastically due to divine judgment.
How does Isaiah 47:1 relate to the theme of humility?
Isaiah 47:1 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility. It illustrates that even the mightiest can fall when they become prideful and oppose God's authority. The verse encourages individuals to remain humble and recognize that earthly power is temporary, urging them to align their lives with God's will rather than seeking personal ambition.
What lessons can we learn from the fall of Babylon in Isaiah 47:1?
The fall of Babylon in Isaiah 47:1 teaches us about the consequences of pride and the inevitability of divine judgment. It reminds us that no earthly power is permanent and that we should be cautious of our ambitions. The verse encourages us to seek humility, recognize our dependence on God, and understand that true strength comes from aligning ourselves with His purposes.
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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