Isaiah 2:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 2:22
22 Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 2 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, mercy, truth. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 2:22
22 Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?
Analysis
The imperative 'Cease ye from man' commands abandoning reliance on human wisdom, power, or deliverance. The rhetorical question 'wherein is he to be accounted of?' dismisses human significance apart from God—man's breath is fleeting (Hebrew 'neshamah be'appo'—breath in his nostrils), emphasizing mortality and frailty (Psalm 144:3-4). This anticipates Jesus' warning against fearing those who kill the body (Matthew 10:28) and Paul's indictment of wisdom of this age as foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:20). True wisdom recognizes human limitation and God's supremacy.
Historical Context
Judah's temptation to seek alliances with Egypt or Assyria rather than trusting God demonstrated misplaced confidence in human power. Isaiah consistently warned against such political reliance (Isaiah 30:1-3; 31:1).
Reflection
- In what areas do we rely on human wisdom, connections, or resources rather than God?
- How does recognizing human frailty ('breath in his nostrils') reorient our ultimate trust?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 40:15, Genesis 2:7, 7:22, Job 27:3, Psalms 8:4, 62:9