Isaiah 26:13
O LORD our God, other lords beside thee have had dominion over us: but by thee only will we make mention of thy name.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֣ה
O LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֣ה
O LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
1 of 9
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
אֱלֹהֵ֔ינוּ
our God
H430
אֱלֹהֵ֔ינוּ
our God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
2 of 9
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
זֽוּלָתֶ֑ךָ
beside
H2108
זֽוּלָתֶ֑ךָ
beside
Strong's:
H2108
Word #:
5 of 9
probably scattering, i.e., removal; used adverbially, except
לְבַד
H905
לְבַד
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
Historical Context
This verse reflects Israel's recurring cycle: serving YHWH, sliding into idolatry or political dependence, experiencing oppression, and returning in repentance. The Assyrian crisis (722 BC for northern Israel, 701 BC siege of Jerusalem) demonstrated the futility of trusting Egypt or other nations. Isaiah consistently warned that only trust in YHWH brings security (7:9, 30:15). The language of 'other lords' having dominion anticipates Babylonian exile and the later need to reject pagan rulers' religious claims.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'other lords' (money, approval, comfort, politics) compete with God for dominion in your life?
- How does recognizing past spiritual adultery deepen appreciation for God's covenant faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness?
- What does it mean practically to 'make mention of God's name only'—how does this shape our speech, priorities, and worship?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
O LORD our God, other lords beside thee have had dominion over us (יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵינוּ בְּעָלוּנוּ אֲדֹנִים זוּלָתֶךָ / YHWH Eloheinu be'alunu adonim zulateka)—The verb בָּעַל (ba'al, "to rule, possess, marry") carries double significance. It denotes political oppression but also spiritual adultery, since Baal worship constantly seduced Israel. The confession acknowledges both foreign domination (Assyria, later Babylon) and idolatrous compromise as violations of covenant exclusivity with YHWH.
But by thee only will we make mention of thy name (לְבַד־בְּךָ נַזְכִּיר שְׁמֶךָ / levad-beka nazkir shimeka)—The verb זָכַר (zakar, "to remember, mention") involves more than verbal acknowledgment; it means to invoke God's character and presence in worship and testimony. The exclusive particle לְבַד (levad, "only, alone") echoes Shema monotheism (Deuteronomy 6:4). True repentance returns to covenant faithfulness, acknowledging YHWH alone as rightful Lord.