Isaiah 9:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 9:17
17 Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 9 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, prayer, 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 21-21: 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 9:17
17 Therefore the Lord shall have no joy in their young men, neither shall have mercy on their fatherless and widows: for every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer, and every mouth speaketh folly. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still.
Analysis
Universal corruption explains why God shows no mercy—even young men, orphans, and widows (normally protected classes) find no favor. 'Therefore' indicates logical consequence. 'Every one is an hypocrite and an evildoer' declares total corruption. 'Every mouth speaketh folly' shows sin's comprehensive nature—words reveal hearts (Matthew 12:34). The refrain returns: despite this judgment, God's anger continues and His hand remains stretched out. Even severe judgment hasn't accomplished repentance, necessitating further discipline.
Historical Context
By the late 8th century BC, northern Israel was thoroughly corrupt across all social classes. Archaeological evidence shows wealth disparity, exploitation of the poor, and syncretistic religion permeating society. Even widows and orphans—usually objects of divine protection—were corrupted. This comprehensive moral failure justified God's comprehensive judgment. Hosea and Amos also described this total societal corruption during the same period.
Reflection
- How does societal corruption reach a point where even normally protected groups participate in evil?
- What does 'every mouth speaketh folly' teach about the relationship between speech and heart condition?
- When does God's patience with corporate sin reach its limit and judgment become inevitable?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H136 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 5:25
- Grace: Isaiah 27:11
- Evil: Matthew 12:34
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 9:12, 9:21, 10:4, 10:6, Psalms 147:10, Jeremiah 18:21