Old Testament
Isaiah 47:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 47:15, the prophet conveys a message of impending judgment against Babylon, symbolized by its merchants.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
This is what will happen to those you have worked with, your merchants from your youth: each will go to his own place; none will save you.
Thus shall they be unto thee with whom thou hast laboured, even thy merchants, from thy youth: they shall wander every one to his quarter; none shall save thee.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 47:15, the prophet conveys a message of impending judgment against Babylon, symbolized by its merchants. The verse highlights that those who have relied on their business partners and allies throughout their history will ultimately abandon them in times of crisis. The merchants, who once provided support and prosperity, will scatter and be unable to help. This serves as a warning about the futility of placing trust in human relationships and material wealth, as they cannot provide true security or salvation. The passage emphasizes that when disaster strikes, even those who seemed dependable will not be there to assist. It underscores the theme of divine judgment and the consequences of pride and reliance on worldly power rather than on God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 47:15 to your life
This verse reminds us to evaluate where we place our trust. While relationships and resources are important, they can fail us in difficult times. We should ultimately rely on God for our security and salvation, recognizing that human support is temporary and unreliable.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 47:15 mean?
Isaiah 47:15 conveys a message of judgment against Babylon, indicating that those who relied on their merchants and allies will find them absent in times of crisis. It highlights the futility of trusting in human relationships and material wealth for security.
What is the meaning of 'none will save you' in Isaiah 47:15?
The phrase 'none will save you' emphasizes that in times of trouble, even those who seemed dependable will not be able to provide help or rescue. It serves as a warning about the limitations of relying on others instead of God.
How does Isaiah 47:15 relate to trust in relationships?
Isaiah 47:15 teaches that while relationships and partnerships can be valuable, they are ultimately unreliable in times of crisis. It encourages readers to place their trust in God rather than in temporary human alliances.
What themes are present in Isaiah 47:15?
The themes in Isaiah 47:15 include judgment, betrayal, dependence on others, the futility of wealth, and divine sovereignty. These themes highlight the consequences of relying on human strength instead of divine support.
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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