Isaiah 35:3
Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.
Original Language Analysis
חַזְּק֖וּ
Strengthen
H2388
חַזְּק֖וּ
Strengthen
Strong's:
H2388
Word #:
1 of 6
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
יָדַ֣יִם
hands
H3027
יָדַ֣יִם
hands
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
2 of 6
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
Cross References
Hebrews 12:12Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;Luke 22:32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.Acts 18:23And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.Job 16:5But I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage your grief.Luke 22:43And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.Judges 7:11And thou shalt hear what they say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened to go down unto the host. Then went he down with Phurah his servant unto the outside of the armed men that were in the host.
Historical Context
Written during Assyrian threats, this exhortation encouraged faithfulness despite overwhelming circumstances. The weak and fearful needed strengthening for the trials ahead.
Questions for Reflection
- Who in your community needs spiritual strengthening and encouragement today?
- How does remembering God's promises provide strength for present struggles?
- What role does the church play in strengthening weak believers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The command to "strengthen" weak hands and "confirm" feeble knees shifts to direct exhortation. This pastoral language addresses spiritual discouragement, using physical metaphors for spiritual weakness. Hebrews 12:12 quotes this verse in context of persevering faith. The imperative mood shows that believers have responsibility to encourage one another, not merely wait passively for God's intervention. Strengthening weak believers is part of the church's mutual ministry.