Isaiah 47:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 47:6
6 I was wroth with my people, I have polluted mine inheritance, and given them into thine hand: thou didst shew them no mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 47 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, prayer. 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 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 47:6
6 I was wroth with my people, I have polluted mine inheritance, and given them into thine hand: thou didst shew them no mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke.
Analysis
God's statement 'I was wroth with my people' admits His agency in using Babylon to discipline Israel, yet 'thou didst shew them no mercy' condemns Babylon for exceeding her mandate with cruel oppression. This demonstrates that God can employ evil instruments for good purposes while still holding them accountable for their evil intentions (Genesis 50:20). Babylon's judgment arises from cruel pride, not mere obedience to God's disciplinary purposes.
Historical Context
Nebuchadnezzar's destruction of Jerusalem (586 BC) included temple desecration, mass slaughter, and deportation. While God ordained this judgment (Jeremiah 27:6), Babylon's excessive cruelty and mockery (Psalm 137:3) merited her own judgment.
Reflection
- How can God use evil to accomplish good purposes while still judging the evil agents?
- When has God's discipline in your life been intensified by others' lack of mercy?
Word Studies
- Mercy: רַחֲמִים (Rachamim) H7356 - Compassion, mercy
Cross-References
- Grace: James 2:13
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 10:6, 13:16, 14:17, Deuteronomy 28:50, 2 Chronicles 28:9, Psalms 69:26