Old Testament
Isaiah 5:17
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the imagery of lambs grazing and strangers eating in the waste places suggests a time of abundance and restoration.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Then the lambs will graze in their usual way, and strangers will eat in the waste places of the fat ones.
Then shall the lambs feed after their manner, and the waste places of the fat ones shall strangers eat.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the imagery of lambs grazing and strangers eating in the waste places suggests a time of abundance and restoration. The lambs represent innocence and purity, feeding in their natural environment, while the strangers symbolize outsiders who benefit from the land's bounty. This reflects a shift in circumstances where those who were once marginalized or excluded now find sustenance in the remnants of what was once prosperous. The verse highlights themes of divine provision and the reversal of fortunes, indicating that even in desolation, there can be hope and renewal. It serves as a reminder that God's blessings can extend beyond the expected, reaching those who may not belong to the original community. This passage encourages readers to recognize the potential for growth and nourishment in unexpected places, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and generosity in times of plenty.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 5:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open to unexpected blessings and to share our resources with those who may not belong to our community. It reminds us that generosity can create opportunities for others, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and support in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 5:17 mean?
Isaiah 5:17 describes a scene where lambs graze peacefully, and outsiders benefit from the remnants of abundance. It symbolizes a time of restoration and divine provision, indicating that even in desolation, there can be hope and renewal.
What is the significance of lambs in Isaiah 5:17?
In Isaiah 5:17, lambs represent innocence and purity, grazing in their natural environment. Their presence highlights themes of abundance and the idea that even the innocent can thrive in a restored land.
What does 'strangers' refer to in Isaiah 5:17?
In Isaiah 5:17, 'strangers' refers to outsiders who benefit from the land's resources. This suggests a shift in circumstances where those previously marginalized find sustenance in what was once prosperous.
What themes are present in Isaiah 5:17?
Isaiah 5:17 encompasses themes of restoration, divine provision, inclusivity, abundance, and the reversal of fortunes. It emphasizes the potential for growth and nourishment in unexpected places.
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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