Old Testament
Isaiah 51:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So listen to this, you who are suffering — you who stagger, but not from wine:
Compare translations
Therefore hear now this, thou afflicted, and drunken, but not with wine:
What Isaiah 51:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 51:21, the prophet addresses those who are suffering and feeling overwhelmed, comparing their state to being drunk, but clarifying that their affliction is not due to alcohol. This metaphor highlights the deep emotional and spiritual distress they are experiencing. The message is one of empathy and understanding, acknowledging the pain of those who feel lost or burdened. The call to listen suggests that there is hope and guidance available for those in despair. The verse serves to remind the afflicted that their struggles are recognized and that they are not alone in their suffering. It emphasizes the importance of hearing and understanding the plight of others, especially those who are vulnerable and in need of support. This passage encourages the afflicted to seek comfort and strength, reinforcing the idea that God is aware of their struggles and is ready to provide help and solace.
How to apply Isaiah 51:21 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that you are not alone in your struggles. Seek support from others and be open to receiving help. Additionally, offer empathy to those around you who may be suffering, as your understanding can provide comfort and strength.
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 51:21
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 51:21
Related Bible verses
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 51:21 mean?
Isaiah 51:21 addresses those who are suffering and feeling overwhelmed, using the metaphor of drunkenness to describe their emotional and spiritual distress. It emphasizes that their affliction is not due to alcohol, but rather deep pain and struggle.
What is the meaning of 'afflicted' in Isaiah 51:21?
In Isaiah 51:21, 'afflicted' refers to those who are experiencing significant hardship, sorrow, or distress. The verse acknowledges their suffering and encourages them to listen for hope and guidance.
How can I apply Isaiah 51:21 to my life?
You can apply Isaiah 51:21 by seeking support during tough times and being open to receiving help. Additionally, practice empathy towards others who are suffering, as your understanding can provide them comfort.
What themes are present in Isaiah 51:21?
The themes in Isaiah 51:21 include suffering, affliction, hope, empathy, and spiritual distress. The verse encourages recognition of pain and the importance of support in overcoming struggles.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.