Isaiah 32:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 32:20
20 Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters, that send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 32 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, judgment. 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
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 32:20
20 Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters, that send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass.
Analysis
Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters (אַשְׁרֵיכֶם זֹרְעֵי עַל־כָּל־מָיִם, ashreykem zor'ey al-kol-mayim)—אַשְׁרֵי (ashrey, blessed, happy) are those who זָרַע (zara, sow) beside כָּל־מַיִם (kol-mayim, all waters). That send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass (מְשַׁלְּחֵי רֶגֶל הַשּׁוֹר וְהַחֲמוֹר, meshaleychey regel hashor veha chamor)—who send forth (שָׁלַח, shalach) the רֶגֶל (regel, foot) of ox and donkey.
The chapter concludes with agricultural blessing—those who sow beside irrigated land and use oxen/donkeys for plowing experience blessing. This contrasts with failed harvests (v. 10) and thorns/briers (v. 13). Well-watered fields represent abundant provision. The ox and ass imagery suggests diligent labor—using all resources for cultivation. Ecclesiastes 11:1 counsels: 'Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days'—generous, faith-filled sowing yields future harvest. Luke 8:5-15's parable of sower shows varied responses to gospel seed. Second Corinthians 9:6: 'He which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.'
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern agriculture depended on water access—irrigation from rivers, rainfall, wells. 'Beside all waters' indicates multiple water sources, ensuring reliable irrigation regardless of drought. Using both ox (powerful for heavy plowing) and donkey (versatile for lighter work) shows wise resource deployment. The blessing isn't prosperity gospel but covenant faithfulness: obedience yields provision (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).
Reflection
- How does 'sowing beside all waters' picture investing in Kingdom work with generous, faith-filled effort?
- What 'oxen and donkeys'—resources and abilities—has God given you to deploy for fruitful sowing?
- How does patient, diligent sowing contrast with seeking quick results or minimal investment?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Ecclesiastes 11:1