Old Testament
Isaiah 59:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 59:5, the imagery of hatching viper eggs and weaving spider webs symbolizes the destructive and deceitful actions of the wicked.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
They hatch the eggs of vipers and spin spider webs. Anyone who eats their eggs dies, and if one is crushed, a snake bursts out.
They hatch cockatrice’ eggs, and weave the spider’s web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 59:5, the imagery of hatching viper eggs and weaving spider webs symbolizes the destructive and deceitful actions of the wicked. The verse warns that engaging in evil leads to harmful consequences. Just as consuming the eggs of a viper results in death, so too does participating in sinful behavior lead to spiritual death. The mention of a snake bursting forth from a crushed egg illustrates how evil can emerge from seemingly small actions. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of sin and the inevitable repercussions that follow. It emphasizes the need for vigilance against temptation and the importance of choosing righteousness over wickedness. The vivid imagery used in this verse highlights the seriousness of the consequences of our actions and the reality of spiritual danger that lurks behind deceptive appearances. Explore related deception.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 59:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of our choices and the potential consequences of our actions. We should avoid engaging in deceitful or harmful behaviors, recognizing that they can lead to spiritual harm. Instead, we should strive to live righteously and seek wisdom in our decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 59:5 mean?
Isaiah 59:5 uses the imagery of hatching viper eggs and weaving spider webs to illustrate the destructive actions of the wicked. It warns that engaging in evil leads to harmful consequences, similar to how consuming viper eggs results in death.
What is the significance of 'viper eggs' in Isaiah 59:5?
The 'viper eggs' in Isaiah 59:5 symbolize the dangerous and deceitful outcomes of wicked actions. Just as eating these eggs can lead to death, the verse highlights that participating in sinful behavior can result in spiritual harm.
What does the phrase 'spider's web' represent in Isaiah 59:5?
In Isaiah 59:5, the 'spider's web' represents the entrapment and deceit that can arise from wickedness. It suggests that engaging in deceitful actions can ensnare individuals, leading to negative consequences.
How can I apply Isaiah 59:5 to my life?
You can apply Isaiah 59:5 by being mindful of your choices and their potential consequences. Avoid engaging in deceitful or harmful behaviors, and strive to live righteously to prevent spiritual harm.
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.