Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. Having addressed Northern Israel (Ephraim, vv.1-4) and rebellious leaders generally (vv.7-13), Isaiah now specifically targets Jerusalem's rulers. Scornful men (anshei latson, אַנְשֵׁי לָצוֹן, men of scoffing/mocking) identifies them as the mockers of verses 9-10. Latson (לָצוֹן) means scorn, derision—these are cynical leaders who ridicule prophetic warning. Proverbs frequently condemns scorners as unteachable (Proverbs 9:7-8, 13:1, 14:6, 15:12).
That rule this people which is in Jerusalem (moshlei ha'am hazeh asher bi-Yrushalayim, מֹשְׁלֵי הָעָם הַזֶּה אֲשֶׁר בִּירוּשָׁלִָם) emphasizes their responsibility. They're not powerless victims but leaders accountable for shepherding God's people. Their scornful attitude toward God's word makes them dangerous—they lead the flock astray. Jesus condemned scribes and Pharisees as blind guides (Matthew 23:16). Peter warns of scoffers in last days (2 Peter 3:3). Jude describes mockers who cause divisions (Jude 1:18-19). Scornful leaders poison those under their influence.
Historical Context
During Hezekiah's reign, Jerusalem's court had pro-Egyptian politicians who scorned Isaiah's warnings against allying with Egypt (Isaiah 30:1-7, 31:1-3). They considered themselves politically savvy realists; Isaiah was impractical idealist. Later, Jeremiah faced similar scorn from Jerusalem's leaders who rejected his warnings about Babylon (Jeremiah 37:15, 38:6). Jesus confronted Jerusalem's rulers who mocked His claims (Luke 23:35). Throughout history, scornful leaders have led people to destruction by dismissing prophetic warnings as fanaticism.
Questions for Reflection
What characterizes 'scornful' leadership versus humble, teachable leadership?
How do leaders who mock God's word corrupt those under their influence?
In what areas might you be scoffing at biblical teaching that challenges your plans or preferences?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. Having addressed Northern Israel (Ephraim, vv.1-4) and rebellious leaders generally (vv.7-13), Isaiah now specifically targets Jerusalem's rulers. Scornful men (anshei latson, אַנְשֵׁי לָצוֹן, men of scoffing/mocking) identifies them as the mockers of verses 9-10. Latson (לָצוֹן) means scorn, derision—these are cynical leaders who ridicule prophetic warning. Proverbs frequently condemns scorners as unteachable (Proverbs 9:7-8, 13:1, 14:6, 15:12).
That rule this people which is in Jerusalem (moshlei ha'am hazeh asher bi-Yrushalayim, מֹשְׁלֵי הָעָם הַזֶּה אֲשֶׁר בִּירוּשָׁלִָם) emphasizes their responsibility. They're not powerless victims but leaders accountable for shepherding God's people. Their scornful attitude toward God's word makes them dangerous—they lead the flock astray. Jesus condemned scribes and Pharisees as blind guides (Matthew 23:16). Peter warns of scoffers in last days (2 Peter 3:3). Jude describes mockers who cause divisions (Jude 1:18-19). Scornful leaders poison those under their influence.