Isaiah 5:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 5:20
20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Chapter Context
Isaiah 5 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, covenant. 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 21-30: 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 5:20
20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!
Analysis
This woe condemns moral relativism—calling evil good and good evil, redefining reality to suit sinful desires. The triple contrasts (evil/good, darkness/light, bitter/sweet) emphasize comprehensive moral inversion. This represents the ultimate corruption: not merely sinning but redefining sin as virtue. Such perversion makes repentance impossible and judgment certain, as conscience itself becomes corrupted.
Historical Context
False prophets in Isaiah's day declared 'peace' when judgment was coming, sweetening bitter truth. This moral confusion enabled continued sin while claiming divine approval.
Reflection
- In what areas has contemporary culture inverted biblical categories of good and evil?
- How can you maintain moral clarity when surrounded by relativistic thinking?
Cross-References
- Evil: Proverbs 17:15, Malachi 3:15
- Light: Job 17:12, Malachi 2:17
- Parallel theme: Amos 5:7, Luke 16:15, 2 Peter 2:1