Old Testament
Isaiah 64:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 64:9, the speaker is pleading with God not to remain angry with His people or to hold their sins against them indefinitely.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Don't stay furious with us, LORD. Don't hold our sins against us forever. Please, look at us — we are all your people.
Be not wroth very sore, O LORD, neither remember iniquity for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 64:9, the speaker is pleading with God not to remain angry with His people or to hold their sins against them indefinitely. This verse reflects a deep sense of humility and recognition of human shortcomings. The speaker acknowledges their collective identity as God's people, emphasizing their dependence on His mercy and forgiveness. The plea is for God to look upon them with compassion rather than judgment, highlighting the desire for reconciliation and restoration. This verse captures the essence of repentance, where the people are aware of their failings but are hopeful for God's grace. It serves as a reminder that despite their sins, they still seek a relationship with God, asking Him to remember their humanity and to act with love rather than wrath. This heartfelt request illustrates the importance of acknowledging one's faults while also seeking divine mercy and understanding.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 64:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach God with humility, acknowledging our mistakes and seeking His forgiveness. It reminds us that no matter how far we stray, we can always return to God and ask for His mercy, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 64:9 mean?
Isaiah 64:9 expresses a plea to God for mercy, asking Him not to remain angry or hold sins against His people forever. It highlights the speaker's recognition of human flaws and their desire for God's compassion and forgiveness.
What is the significance of God's mercy in Isaiah 64:9?
The significance of God's mercy in Isaiah 64:9 lies in the acknowledgment of human shortcomings and the hope for reconciliation. The verse emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness and maintaining a relationship with God despite failures.
How does Isaiah 64:9 reflect human shortcomings?
Isaiah 64:9 reflects human shortcomings by recognizing that the people have sinned and are in need of God's mercy. The verse shows humility and the understanding that they cannot overcome their failings without divine help.
What is the main theme of Isaiah 64:9?
The main theme of Isaiah 64:9 is the plea for divine mercy and forgiveness. It underscores the importance of repentance and the desire for a compassionate relationship with God.

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.
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