Isaiah 43:18
Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
Original Language Analysis
אַֽל
H408
אַֽל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תִּזְכְּר֖וּ
Remember
H2142
תִּזְכְּר֖וּ
Remember
Strong's:
H2142
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
רִֽאשֹׁנ֑וֹת
ye not the former things
H7223
רִֽאשֹׁנ֑וֹת
ye not the former things
Strong's:
H7223
Word #:
3 of 6
first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)
וְקַדְמֹנִיּ֖וֹת
the things of old
H6931
וְקַדְמֹנִיּ֖וֹת
the things of old
Strong's:
H6931
Word #:
4 of 6
(of time) anterior or (of place) oriental
Cross References
Isaiah 65:17For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.2 Corinthians 3:10For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.Isaiah 46:9Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me,1 Chronicles 16:12Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;Deuteronomy 8:2And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.Deuteronomy 7:18Thou shalt not be afraid of them: but shalt well remember what the LORD thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt;
Historical Context
This doesn't deny the Exodus's importance but says God's coming work (return from Babylon, ultimately Messiah's redemption) will so exceed past deliverances that they'll pale in comparison—a greater Exodus is coming.
Questions for Reflection
- How can dwelling on past blessings actually hinder anticipation of greater works God plans?
- What past experiences might you need to move beyond to embrace God's new work?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The surprising command: 'Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.' After emphasizing the Exodus, God says don't dwell there! The Hebrew 'zakar' (remember) in negative form suggests not fixating on past mercies when greater works are coming.