Isaiah 28:25
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 28:25
25 When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rie in their place?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 28 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, holiness, sacrifice. 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 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 28:25
25 When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rie in their place?
Analysis
When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rie in their place? After plowing (v.24), the farmer plants—but not randomly. When he hath made plain the face thereof (halo im-shivvah faneyha, הֲלוֹא אִם־שִׁוָּה פָנֶיהָ, when he has leveled its surface) describes preparing a smooth seedbed. Then deliberate, differentiated planting: cast abroad the fitches (hefits qetsach, הֵפִיץ קֶצַח, scatter black cummin/nigella), scatter the cummin (ve-kammon yizroq, וְכַמֹּן יִזְרֹק, and sow cummin), cast in the principal wheat (ve-sam chittah sorah, וְשָׂם חִטָּה שׂוֹרָה, put wheat in rows).
The appointed barley (u-se'orah nismanah, וּשְׂעֹרָה נִסְמָנָה, and barley in appointed place) and the rie in their place (ve-kussemet gevulato, וְכֻסֶּמֶת גְּבֻלָתוֹ, and spelt in its border). Each crop receives appropriate treatment—some scattered broadcast (fitches, cummin), some in rows (wheat), some in designated spots (barley, spelt). The farmer knows each seed's needs and plants accordingly. God similarly treats people individually—not uniformly but appropriately. Some receive gentle scattering, some orderly rows, some specific placement. Divine wisdom knows what each needs for fruitfulness (1 Corinthians 12:4-6, Romans 12:3-8).
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern agriculture distinguished crop types requiring different treatment. Fitches (black cummin, used as spice) and cummin were scattered in prepared areas. Wheat, the staple grain, was planted carefully in rows. Barley, hardier than wheat, went in less prime areas. Spelt (primitive wheat variety) marked borders. Paul uses similar agricultural imagery: "I have planted, Apollos watered" (1 Corinthians 3:6)—different workers, different methods, one purpose. God's varied dealings with believers (trials, blessings, gifts, callings) reflect His farming wisdom, not randomness.
Reflection
- How does God's 'differentiated planting' (treating people individually according to their needs) encourage you?
- What kind of 'seed' are you—requiring scattering, orderly rows, or specific placement—and how does this shape God's dealings with you?
- How should understanding God's individualized care affect how you view others' different experiences and callings?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 4:9, Matthew 23:23