Old Testament

Isaiah 49:20

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

The children born during your time of loss will say to you, 'This place is too small for us! Make room so we can live here.'

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

The children which thou shalt have, after thou hast lost the other, shall say again in thine ears, The place is too strait for me: give place to me that I may dwell.

What Isaiah 49:20 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Isaiah 49:20, the verse speaks to a time of restoration and hope for the people of Israel. After experiencing loss and hardship, the children born during this difficult period will express a desire for more space, indicating growth and abundance. This reflects a future where the community will flourish and thrive, suggesting that God will provide for His people despite their past struggles. The imagery of children asking for more room symbolizes new beginnings and the promise of a brighter future. It emphasizes that even after times of sorrow, there will be joy and expansion, as God’s blessings will overflow. This verse reassures the people that their current situation is not permanent and that they will experience renewal and prosperity.

How to apply Isaiah 49:20 to your life

This verse encourages us to remain hopeful during difficult times, reminding us that growth and renewal can follow loss. We should be open to new opportunities and embrace the blessings that come our way, trusting that God will provide for our needs and expand our horizons.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Samuel anointing the young David in Bethlehem

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

David

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Isaiah 49:20

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Isaiah 49:20

At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah

Author
Isaiah the prophet
Written
Around 700 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah and the surrounding nations

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 49:20 mean?

Isaiah 49:20 conveys a message of hope and restoration for the people of Israel. It indicates that after experiencing loss, the children born during that time will express a desire for more space, symbolizing growth and the promise of a brighter future.

What is the significance of children in Isaiah 49:20?

In Isaiah 49:20, children represent new beginnings and the potential for abundance. Their request for more space signifies the flourishing of the community and God's provision after a period of hardship.

What themes are present in Isaiah 49:20?

Isaiah 49:20 highlights themes of restoration, hope, growth, and divine provision. It emphasizes that even after sorrow, there will be joy and expansion as God blesses His people.

How can Isaiah 49:20 be applied to our lives today?

Isaiah 49:20 encourages us to stay hopeful during tough times, reminding us that growth and renewal can follow loss. It invites us to embrace new opportunities and trust in God's provision.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.