Old Testament
Isaiah 7:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 7:20, the Lord is speaking about a time of judgment for His people.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
When that day comes, the Lord will use a razor hired from beyond the Euphrates River — the king of Assyria — to shave your head, the hair of your legs, and strip off your beard as well.
In the same day shall the Lord shave with a razor that is hired, namely, by them beyond the river, by the king of Assyria, the head, and the hair of the feet: and it shall also consume the beard.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 7:20, the Lord is speaking about a time of judgment for His people. The imagery of a razor symbolizes a drastic and humiliating action. The 'razor' represents the king of Assyria, who will be used by God to bring about this judgment. Shaving the head and beard was a sign of disgrace in ancient Israel, indicating that the people would face shame and loss of dignity. This verse emphasizes that God is in control of the nations and can use even foreign powers to accomplish His purposes. The reference to the Euphrates River highlights the distance and power of Assyria, showing that God can use any means necessary to fulfill His will. This passage serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and relying on human alliances instead of trusting in Him.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 7:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of relying on God rather than human solutions. In times of trouble, we should seek God's guidance and trust in His plans, even when they seem difficult or humiliating. True security comes from faith in God.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 7:20 mean?
Isaiah 7:20 describes a time of judgment where God uses the king of Assyria as a tool to bring humiliation to His people. The imagery of shaving represents loss of dignity and serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God.
What is the significance of the razor in Isaiah 7:20?
The razor in Isaiah 7:20 symbolizes a drastic action taken by God through the king of Assyria. It represents the humiliation and disgrace that the people will face as a result of their disobedience.
Who is the king of Assyria in Isaiah 7:20?
The king of Assyria mentioned in Isaiah 7:20 represents a foreign power that God will use to execute judgment on His people. This highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use any means to fulfill His purposes.
What does shaving the head and beard symbolize in Isaiah 7:20?
Shaving the head and beard in Isaiah 7:20 symbolizes disgrace and loss of dignity. In ancient Israel, these actions were associated with humiliation, indicating the severe consequences of the people's actions against 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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