Isaiah 63:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 63:17
17 O LORD, why hast thou made us to err from thy ways, and hardened our heart from thy fear? Return for thy servants' sake, the tribes of thine inheritance.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 63 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, hope. 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 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 63:17
17 O LORD, why hast thou made us to err from thy ways, and hardened our heart from thy fear? Return for thy servants' sake, the tribes of thine inheritance.
Analysis
'O LORD, why hast thou made us to err from thy ways, and hardened our heart from thy fear? Return for thy servants' sake, the tribes of thine inheritance.' The bold question attributes their wandering to God - 'why hast thou made us to err?' This doesn't deny human responsibility but acknowledges divine sovereignty even over sin's effects. The prayer is for God to 'return.'
Historical Context
This echoes the hardening theme of Isaiah 6:10 and anticipates Romans 9-11. The relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility remains mysterious yet real.
Reflection
- How do you understand the relationship between God's sovereignty and human sin?
- What does it mean to pray for God to 'return'?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 29:13, Numbers 10:36, Joshua 11:20, Psalms 90:13
- Creation: Deuteronomy 2:30
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 6:10, John 12:40