Isaiah 66:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 66:2
2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 66 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, fellowship, worship. 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 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 66:2
2 For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.
Analysis
The declaration 'to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word' identifies God's chosen dwelling place - not temples but humble hearts. The three characteristics (poor, contrite, trembles at word) describe brokenness over sin and reverence for Scripture. This echoes the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3) - 'Blessed are the poor in spirit' - establishing spiritual poverty as prerequisite for divine presence.
Historical Context
Contrasted with those who built elaborate temple while tolerating sin (v. 3-4), God seeks internal transformation over external religion. The Pharisees' opposite approach (external piety, internal pride) demonstrated why Jesus pronounced woes rather than beatitudes on religious elite.
Reflection
- What does it mean to be 'poor in spirit' and have a 'contrite' heart before God?
- How is 'trembling at God's word' different from merely reading or studying Scripture?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 138:6
- Spirit: Isaiah 57:15, 61:1, Psalms 34:18, 51:17
- Word: Isaiah 66:5
- Parallel theme: Psalms 119:120, Proverbs 28:14, Habakkuk 3:16, Philippians 2:12