Old Testament

Isaiah 9:17

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

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.

Author
Isaiah the prophet
Written
Around 700 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah and the surrounding nations
CBTClear Bible Translation

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.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

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. Explore related hypocrisy.

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

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.

The Book of Isaiah
Book Summary

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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