Isaiah 65:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 65:20
20 There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 65 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, hope, judgment. 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 65:20
20 There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed.
Analysis
A difficult but important promise: "There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed." This verse has generated interpretive debate. The most likely meaning within its context: in the renewed earth, lifespans will extend dramatically (like pre-flood patriarchs), with someone dying at 100 considered premature ("a child"). Yet death still exists for the "sinner"—suggesting a millennial or transitional period before the final eternal state where death is completely abolished (Revelation 21:4). From a Reformed perspective, this may describe conditions during Christ's millennial reign (Revelation 20:1-6) before the final judgment and new creation. Alternatively, it may be symbolic language describing the dramatic improvements in the restored order without being strictly literal. The key point: God's restoration dramatically reverses the curse, extending life and health, though complete perfection awaits the final state.
Historical Context
Post-exilic life expectancy was far shorter than patriarchal ages (Genesis 5). The prophecy promised dramatic improvement—lifespans extending to hundreds of years, suggesting a restoration toward pre-fall conditions. This looked beyond immediate historical fulfillment to the Messianic age and ultimately the consummated kingdom. The New Testament describes believers already experiencing eternal life (John 3:36, 5:24) while still subject to physical death, with complete resurrection and glorification awaiting Christ's return (1 Corinthians 15:51-57, Philippians 3:20-21).
Reflection
- How does this verse relate to other promises about death being abolished (Revelation 21:4)?
- What does dramatically extended lifespan symbolize about God's restoration of creation?
- How should we understand progressive fulfillment—the 'already' and 'not yet' of kingdom promises?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 4:40