Old Testament
Isaiah 47:3
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 47:3, God is addressing Babylon, symbolizing its impending judgment and humiliation.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Your nakedness will be uncovered, and your shame will be seen. I will take vengeance, and I will not meet you as a man.
Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet thee as a man.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 47:3, God is addressing Babylon, symbolizing its impending judgment and humiliation. The imagery of nakedness and shame signifies the exposure of their sins and the consequences of their pride. God declares that He will take vengeance, indicating that He will act decisively against Babylon, not in a human way but with divine authority. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of divine judgment and the reality that no one can escape the consequences of their actions. The reference to not meeting as a man suggests that God's judgment is beyond human understanding and is executed with absolute power. This serves as a warning to those who oppose God and rely on their own strength, highlighting the futility of such arrogance. Ultimately, it reminds us that God sees all and will hold nations accountable for their actions, reinforcing the idea that divine justice will prevail.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 47:3 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and attitudes. It serves as a reminder that pride can lead to downfall and that we should seek humility before God. We must be aware that our actions have consequences, and we should strive to live in a way that honors God, avoiding the pitfalls of arrogance and sin.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 47:3 mean by 'nakedness' and 'shame'?
In Isaiah 47:3, 'nakedness' and 'shame' symbolize the exposure of Babylon's sins and moral failures. This imagery indicates that their wrongdoings will be revealed, leading to public humiliation and judgment. It serves as a metaphor for the consequences of pride and disobedience against God.
How does Isaiah 47:3 relate to God's vengeance?
Isaiah 47:3 highlights God's promise to take vengeance on Babylon for its arrogance and sins. This vengeance is not carried out in a human manner but reflects God's divine authority and power. It emphasizes that God will act decisively against those who oppose Him, reinforcing the seriousness of divine judgment.
What can we learn about pride from Isaiah 47:3?
Isaiah 47:3 serves as a warning against pride, illustrating how it can lead to downfall and judgment. The verse encourages humility and self-reflection, reminding us that relying on our own strength can result in negative consequences. It teaches the importance of recognizing our limitations and the need for accountability before God.
Why does God say He will not meet Babylon 'as a man'?
When God states He will not meet Babylon 'as a man' in Isaiah 47:3, it signifies that His judgment is beyond human understanding and capability. This phrase emphasizes the divine nature of God's actions, indicating that His vengeance is executed with absolute authority and power, unlike human interactions that may be limited or flawed.
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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