Isaiah 42:23
Who among you will give ear to this? who will hearken and hear for the time to come?
Original Language Analysis
מִ֥י
H4310
מִ֥י
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
1 of 7
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
יַאֲזִ֣ין
Who among you will give ear
H238
יַאֲזִ֣ין
Who among you will give ear
Strong's:
H238
Word #:
3 of 7
to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen
יַקְשִׁ֥ב
to this who will hearken
H7181
יַקְשִׁ֥ב
to this who will hearken
Strong's:
H7181
Word #:
5 of 7
to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken
Historical Context
This challenges both contemporary exiles and future generations to learn from Israel's history. God's judgments teach lessons that must be heeded to avoid repeating tragic patterns.
Questions for Reflection
- What lessons from biblical history are you failing to apply to present circumstances?
- How can you give attentive ear to Scripture's warnings for your spiritual future?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The prophet calls for attentive response: 'Who among you will give ear to this? who will hearken and hear for the time to come?' The Hebrew 'azan' (give ear) and 'qashab' (attend) emphasize careful, ongoing attention. Past failure demands present learning for future wisdom.