Old Testament
Isaiah 59:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
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.
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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.
What Isaiah 59:5 means
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.
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
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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 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.
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