Isaiah 2:18
And the idols he shall utterly abolish.
Original Language Analysis
וְהָאֱלִילִ֖ים
And the idols
H457
וְהָאֱלִילִ֖ים
And the idols
Strong's:
H457
Word #:
1 of 3
good for nothing, by analogy vain or vanity; specifically an idol
Historical Context
Despite periodic reforms that removed idols (2 Kings 18:4; 23:4-20), idolatry persistently reemerged. Only eschatological judgment finally eradicates false worship, fulfilled ultimately in Christ's kingdom.
Questions for Reflection
- What false gods in our culture appear powerful now but will 'utterly abolish'?
- How does the certainty of idolatry's final eradication free us from fear of current rival claims to allegiance?
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Analysis & Commentary
The stark pronouncement that idols 'shall utterly abolish' (Hebrew 'kalil chaleph'—completely pass away) declares their total eradication. Unlike mere humbling, idols face annihilation—they possess no enduring reality. This eschatological vision anticipates the new heaven and earth where nothing unclean enters (Revelation 21:27). The Reformed understanding that created things have no inherent permanence apart from God's sustaining will finds confirmation here: what displaces God will ultimately vanish.