Old Testament
Isaiah 6:13
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But yet a tenth will remain in it, and it will return and be consumed, like a terebinth or an oak, whose substance remains in them when they shed their leaves: so the holy seed will be its substance.
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But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them, when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof.
What Isaiah 6:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 6:13, the prophet conveys a message of hope amidst judgment. Although the people of Israel will face destruction, a remnant, symbolized by a tenth, will survive. This remnant is compared to strong trees like the terebinth and oak, which retain their essence even when they lose their leaves. The 'holy seed' represents the faithful group that will endure and eventually restore the nation. This verse emphasizes that even in dire circumstances, God preserves a faithful remnant that will continue His work and fulfill His promises. The imagery of trees suggests resilience and the idea that life can spring forth again from what seems lost, highlighting God's ability to bring renewal and hope.
How to apply Isaiah 6:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain hopeful during difficult times, knowing that God preserves a faithful remnant. We can find strength in our faith and trust that even when circumstances seem bleak, God is at work, preparing for renewal and restoration in our lives and communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: Isaiah's Vision of the LORD (Isaiah 6:1–13)
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Isaiah
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 6:13 mean?
Isaiah 6:13 conveys a message of hope amidst judgment, indicating that although Israel will face destruction, a remnant, symbolized by a tenth, will survive. This remnant is compared to resilient trees, suggesting that even in loss, there is potential for renewal and restoration.
What is the meaning of 'holy seed' in Isaiah 6:13?
In Isaiah 6:13, 'holy seed' refers to the faithful remnant of Israel that will endure despite impending judgment. This term symbolizes the essence of God's people who will remain and eventually restore the nation.
How does Isaiah 6:13 relate to hope?
Isaiah 6:13 relates to hope by illustrating that even in dire circumstances, God preserves a faithful remnant. This verse reassures believers that renewal and restoration are possible, even after significant loss.
What imagery is used in Isaiah 6:13?
Isaiah 6:13 uses the imagery of strong trees, like the terebinth and oak, to represent resilience. These trees retain their essence even when they shed their leaves, symbolizing the enduring nature of the faithful remnant.
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