Old Testament
Isaiah 65:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 65:22, God promises a future where His people will enjoy the fruits of their labor without fear of losing it to others.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
They won't build a house only for someone else to live in it. They won't plant crops only for someone else to eat them. My people will live as long as trees, and my chosen ones will enjoy the work of their own hands for a long time.
They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 65:22, God promises a future where His people will enjoy the fruits of their labor without fear of losing it to others. This verse emphasizes the joy and security that comes from living in a land where everyone can thrive. The imagery of building houses and planting crops signifies stability and prosperity. Unlike the past, where people often worked hard only to have their efforts taken away, in this new reality, God's chosen ones will experience long-lasting fulfillment and satisfaction from their work. The comparison to trees highlights longevity and strength, suggesting that God's people will have enduring lives filled with purpose and reward. This promise reflects God's desire for His people to experience true abundance and peace, free from oppression and injustice.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 65:22 to your life
This verse encourages us to work diligently and trust that our efforts will bear fruit. It reminds us that God values our labor and desires for us to enjoy the results of our hard work. We can find hope in the promise of a future where our contributions matter and lead to lasting joy.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 65:22 mean?
Isaiah 65:22 conveys God's promise that His people will enjoy the results of their hard work without fear of losing it to others. It emphasizes a future of stability, prosperity, and fulfillment, where individuals can thrive and experience lasting joy from their labor.
What is the meaning of 'they shall not build, and another inhabit' in Isaiah 65:22?
The phrase 'they shall not build, and another inhabit' means that God's people will no longer work hard only to have their efforts taken away by others. It signifies a time of security and ownership, where individuals can enjoy the fruits of their labor.
What themes are present in Isaiah 65:22?
The themes in Isaiah 65:22 include prosperity, security, enjoyment of labor, longevity, God's promises, restoration, and justice. These themes reflect God's desire for His people to thrive and experience true abundance.
How can I apply Isaiah 65:22 to my life?
You can apply Isaiah 65:22 by working diligently and trusting that your efforts will yield positive results. This verse serves as a reminder that God values your labor and desires for you to enjoy the outcomes of your hard work.

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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