Isaiah 51:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 51:7
7 Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 51 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, redemption. 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 21-23: 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 51:7
7 Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings.
Analysis
The address to those with 'my law in your heart' describes true believers - internal transformation, not mere external conformity (Jeremiah 31:33). The command 'fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings' calls for courage grounded in divine approval over human opinion. Those with God's word internalized can withstand social pressure because identity rests in God, not peer acceptance.
Historical Context
Exiles faced mockery from Babylonians and later opposition rebuilding Jerusalem (Nehemiah 4:1-3). The internalized law sustained faithful remnant through ridicule. Same principle applies to Christians facing secular culture's contempt.
Reflection
- How does having God's law 'in your heart' (internalized Word) provide courage to withstand cultural opposition?
- What reproaches or revilings are you tempted to avoid by compromising biblical standards?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6664 - Righteous one
Cross-References
- Word: Psalms 37:31, 40:8, Ezekiel 2:6
- Evil: Matthew 5:11, 1 Peter 4:4, 4:14
- Righteousness: Isaiah 51:1
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 1:17, Acts 5:41, 2 Corinthians 3:3