Isaiah 5:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 5:7
7 For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his pleasant plant: and he looked for judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold a cry.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 5 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, discipleship, mercy. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 5:7
7 For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his pleasant plant: and he looked for judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold a cry.
Analysis
Isaiah identifies the parable's meaning: the vineyard is Israel and Judah, 'the men of His pleasure' (literally, 'plant of His delight'). The devastating wordplay in Hebrew contrasts God's expectation with reality: He expected 'mishpat' (justice) but found 'mispach' (bloodshed/oppression); He sought 'tsedaqah' (righteousness) but heard 'tse'aqah' (a cry of distress). Similar sounds, opposite meanings emphasize the perversion.
Historical Context
Eighth-century Judah was marked by economic oppression, corrupt courts, and social injustice despite religious observance (Isaiah 1:11-17). The cry of the oppressed reached God's ears like Abel's blood.
Reflection
- How might you be practicing religious activities while ignoring justice and righteousness?
- What 'cries' of those you've wronged or neglected might be reaching God's ears?
Word Studies
- Judgment: מִשְׁפָּט (Mishpat) H4941 - Judgment, justice
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 3:17, Psalms 147:11, 149:4, James 5:4
- Judgment: Isaiah 3:14
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 1:6, 5:2, 62:5, Job 34:28, Psalms 80:15