Isaiah 40:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 40:21
21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 40 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, obedience, worship. 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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 40:21
21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
Analysis
This verse shifts from idolatry's folly to God's self-evident existence and power. Four rhetorical questions pile up, each pressing the point: you should know these truths! The Hebrew 'shama' (heard) and 'bin' (understood) emphasize that God's revelation through creation and history is clear and undeniable.
Historical Context
These questions appeal to Israel's covenant history and to general revelation visible to all humanity. Knowledge of the true God has always been available through His works and word.
Reflection
- What aspects of God's revelation in creation have you neglected or dismissed?
- How does Paul's argument in Romans 1:20 about God's invisible qualities being clearly seen echo this verse?