Old Testament
Isaiah 51:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Have you forgotten the LORD, your Maker, who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth? You live in constant terror every day because of the fury of your oppressor, as though he were about to destroy you. But where is that oppressor's fury now?
Compare translations
And forgettest the LORD thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where is the fury of the oppressor?
What Isaiah 51:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reminds His people not to forget Him, their Creator, who has the power to shape the universe. Despite their fears of oppression and the threats they face, they are encouraged to remember that God is greater than their circumstances. The verse highlights the contrast between their constant anxiety about their oppressors and the reality of God's sovereignty. The rhetorical question about the oppressor's fury suggests that their fears may be unfounded, as God is ultimately in control. This serves as a call to trust in God's protection and power rather than being consumed by fear of human threats. It emphasizes the importance of faith in God as a source of strength and reassurance in difficult times.
How to apply Isaiah 51:13 to your life
When facing fear or oppression, remember that God is your Creator and protector. Instead of being overwhelmed by anxiety, focus on His power and promises. Trusting in God can provide peace and strength in challenging situations, reminding you that He is in control.
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.
Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 51:13
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 51:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 51:13 teach about fear and oppression?
Isaiah 51:13 teaches that despite the fear and oppression people may face, they should remember that God, their Creator, is greater than their circumstances. The verse encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and power rather than being consumed by anxiety about their oppressors. It highlights the importance of faith in God as a source of strength and reassurance during difficult times.
How can I apply Isaiah 51:13 in my life?
To apply Isaiah 51:13 in your life, focus on recognizing God as your Creator and protector when facing fear or oppression. Instead of allowing anxiety to overwhelm you, remind yourself of God's promises and His control over your situation. Engage in prayer, meditate on scripture, and seek community support to strengthen your faith and trust in God's ability to provide peace and strength in challenging circumstances.
Why does Isaiah 51:13 mention the oppressor's fury?
Isaiah 51:13 mentions the oppressor's fury to highlight the contrast between the fears of God's people and the reality of their situation. The rhetorical question about the oppressor's fury suggests that their fears may be unfounded, as God is ultimately in control. This serves to remind believers that while they may face threats, God's power and sovereignty surpass any human oppression.
What themes are present in Isaiah 51:13?
Isaiah 51:13 encompasses several key themes, including God as Creator, the reality of fear and oppression, the importance of faith and trust in God, divine sovereignty, human anxiety, and God's protection. These themes work together to encourage believers to focus on God's power and promises rather than being overwhelmed by their circumstances.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.