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 wisdom, judgment, obedience. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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