Isaiah 43:8
Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.
Original Language Analysis
הוֹצִ֥יא
Bring forth
H3318
הוֹצִ֥יא
Bring forth
Strong's:
H3318
Word #:
1 of 8
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
עַם
people
H5971
עַם
people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
2 of 8
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וְעֵינַ֣יִם
eyes
H5869
וְעֵינַ֣יִם
eyes
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
4 of 8
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
יֵ֑שׁ
that have
H3426
יֵ֑שׁ
that have
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
5 of 8
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
Cross References
Isaiah 6:9And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.Ezekiel 12:2Son of man, thou dwellest in the midst of a rebellious house, which have eyes to see, and see not; they have ears to hear, and hear not: for they are a rebellious house.Jeremiah 5:21Hear now this, O foolish people, and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not:
Historical Context
This introduces the courtroom scene where blind Israel must nevertheless testify to God's works. Their very existence and history provide evidence for God's uniqueness, despite their spiritual dullness.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use imperfect witnesses to testify to His perfect works?
- What does your life testify about God despite your spiritual limitations?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The paradoxical command to 'bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears' describes those with physical capacity but spiritual dysfunction. This continues the indictment of Israel's willful ignorance (42:18-20), yet now they're called forth as witnesses despite their blindness.