Isaiah 64:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 64:5
5 Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 64 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, redemption, 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
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 64:5
5 Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.
Analysis
'Thou meetest him that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, those that remember thee in thy ways: behold, thou art wroth; for we have sinned: in those is continuance, and we shall be saved.' God meets those who work righteousness joyfully and remember His ways. Yet here is confession: 'thou art wroth; for we have sinned.' Despite sin, 'we shall be saved' - grace exceeds judgment.
Historical Context
This balances divine expectation of righteousness with confession of failure. The pattern of sin-confession-hope recurs throughout Scripture.
Reflection
- How does God 'meet' those who rejoice in righteousness?
- What does continuance in God's ways despite sin mean for salvation?
Word Studies
- Righteous: צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) H6664 - Righteous one
Cross-References
- Righteousness: Acts 10:35