Old Testament
Isaiah 9:17
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Therefore the LORD shall have no joy in their young men, nor shall He have mercy on their orphans and widows, for everyone is a hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaks foolishness. For all this, His anger is not turned away, but His hand is still stretched out.
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Therefore the LORD shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still.
What Isaiah 9:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His disappointment and lack of joy in the people, particularly the young men, because they have turned away from righteousness. The mention of orphans and widows highlights the neglect of the vulnerable in society. The people are described as hypocrites and evildoers, indicating a deep moral failure where their words do not match their actions. Despite their wrongdoing, God's anger remains, and His hand is still outstretched, suggesting that He is still ready to reach out and offer help, even in the face of their rebellion. This reflects God's justice and mercy, showing that while He is displeased, He still desires to guide and restore His people if they turn back to Him.
How to apply Isaiah 9:17 to your life
This verse reminds us to examine our own lives for hypocrisy and to care for the vulnerable in our communities. We should strive to align our actions with our words and seek God's mercy, recognizing that He is always ready to help us return to the right path.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Keep studying Isaiah 9:17
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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 9:17 mean?
Isaiah 9:17 expresses God's disappointment with the people, particularly the young men, for their hypocrisy and moral failures. It highlights the neglect of orphans and widows, showing that despite their wrongdoing, God's anger remains, yet His hand is still outstretched in readiness to help.
What is the significance of orphans and widows in Isaiah 9:17?
In Isaiah 9:17, orphans and widows symbolize the vulnerable and marginalized in society. Their mention underscores the moral failure of the people, who neglect those in need, reflecting a broader theme of social justice.
How does Isaiah 9:17 relate to God's mercy?
Isaiah 9:17 indicates that even in the face of rebellion and wrongdoing, God's mercy is still available. His outstretched hand signifies His willingness to guide and restore those who turn back to Him.
What themes are present in Isaiah 9:17?
Key themes in Isaiah 9:17 include divine displeasure, hypocrisy, social justice, God's mercy, moral failure, judgment, and hope for restoration. These themes highlight the consequences of turning away from righteousness and the possibility of redemption.
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