Old Testament
Isaiah 5:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 5:6, God declares that He will allow the vineyard, which symbolizes His people, to become desolate and unproductive.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
I'll turn it into a wasteland. No one will prune it or tend the soil. Briers and thorns will take over. I'll even command the clouds to hold back their rain."
And I will lay it waste: it shall not be pruned, nor digged; but there shall come up briers and thorns: I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 5:6, God declares that He will allow the vineyard, which symbolizes His people, to become desolate and unproductive. The imagery of not pruning or tending the soil indicates a complete abandonment, leading to the growth of briers and thorns, which represent sin and decay. The command to the clouds not to rain signifies a withdrawal of God's blessings and provision. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and failing to live righteously. It highlights the importance of spiritual care and cultivation in our lives, as neglect can lead to spiritual barrenness. The vineyard, once flourishing, now faces destruction due to disobedience and lack of stewardship. This passage emphasizes that without God's nurturing presence, we can easily fall into a state of spiritual wasteland, where growth is stunted and life is unfruitful. Explore related judgment.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 5:6 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of nurturing our spiritual lives. Just as a vineyard needs care to thrive, we must actively seek God, engage in prayer, and cultivate our relationship with Him. Neglecting our spiritual health can lead to a barren life.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 5:6 mean?
Isaiah 5:6 means that God will allow His people, represented as a vineyard, to become desolate due to their disobedience. The lack of care symbolizes abandonment, leading to spiritual decay and the withdrawal of God's blessings.
What is the significance of the vineyard in Isaiah 5:6?
In Isaiah 5:6, the vineyard symbolizes God's people and their relationship with Him. The verse illustrates the consequences of neglecting spiritual care, resulting in desolation and unfruitfulness.
What are the consequences mentioned in Isaiah 5:6?
The consequences mentioned in Isaiah 5:6 include desolation and the growth of briers and thorns, which symbolize sin and decay. This serves as a warning about the dangers of turning away from God and neglecting spiritual responsibilities.
How does Isaiah 5:6 relate to spiritual neglect?
Isaiah 5:6 relates to spiritual neglect by illustrating how failing to nurture one's relationship with God can lead to a barren and unproductive life. Just as a vineyard needs care to thrive, our spiritual lives require active engagement to avoid desolation.

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.
Unlock the full Isaiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Isaiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 66 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Isaiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.