Old Testament
Isaiah 5:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 5:15, the verse emphasizes a universal truth about humility and the consequences of pride.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
The common person will be brought low, the powerful will be humbled, and the arrogant will have their proud eyes cast down.
And the mean man shall be brought down, and the mighty man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 5:15, the verse emphasizes a universal truth about humility and the consequences of pride. It states that regardless of social status, everyone will face a reckoning. The 'common person' and the 'powerful' will both be humbled, indicating that no one is exempt from accountability. The 'arrogant' will have their pride stripped away, symbolized by their 'proud eyes' being cast down. This serves as a reminder that human pride is temporary and that true worth is not found in status or power. The passage warns against the dangers of arrogance and highlights the inevitability of divine justice, where all will be brought low before God. It encourages readers to reflect on their own attitudes and behaviors, urging them to adopt humility instead of pride, as ultimately, everyone will stand equal before God’s judgment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 5:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to practice humility in our daily lives. Instead of seeking power or status, we should focus on being kind and respectful to others. Recognizing that pride can lead to downfall, we can strive to remain grounded and treat everyone with dignity, regardless of their position.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 5:15 mean?
Isaiah 5:15 conveys that both the common and powerful people will be humbled, emphasizing that pride leads to downfall. It highlights the inevitability of accountability before God, reminding us that no one is above judgment.
What is the meaning of 'the mean man' in Isaiah 5:15?
In Isaiah 5:15, 'the mean man' refers to the common or lowly person. This term illustrates that regardless of social status, everyone will face humbling circumstances and accountability.
How does Isaiah 5:15 relate to pride?
Isaiah 5:15 warns that pride can lead to downfall, as it states that the 'arrogant' will have their 'proud eyes' cast down. This illustrates that pride is temporary and can result in humbling consequences.
What lessons can we learn from Isaiah 5:15?
From Isaiah 5:15, we learn the importance of humility and treating others with respect, regardless of their status. It encourages us to avoid arrogance and recognize that everyone is equal before divine judgment.

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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