Isaiah 65:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 65:13
13 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed:
Chapter Context
Isaiah 65 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, prayer, discipleship. 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 21-25: 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 65:13
13 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed:
Analysis
'Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed.' Sharp contrast between servants and rebels: eating vs. hunger, drinking vs. thirst, rejoicing vs. shame. The Hebrew 'eved' (servant) marks the blessed group. Parallel structure emphasizes the contrast.
Historical Context
This division anticipates the eschatological separation of sheep and goats. Present choices determine eternal destinies.
Reflection
- What distinguishes 'my servants' from those who forsake the LORD?
- How do contrasting eternal destinies affect present choices?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References God: Malachi 3:18
- References Lord: Isaiah 66:5, 66:14
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 44:9, 61:7