Isaiah 26:5 KJV

For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.

Previous Verse
« Isaiah 26:4

Next Verse
Isaiah 26:6 »

Isaiah 26:5 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Isaiah 26:5

Isaiah 26:5 (KJV): "For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low: he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust."

Introduction

Isaiah 26:5 presents profound theological insights into the nature of God's sovereignty and justice. The verse illustrates God's power in humbling the proud and exalting the lowly. This commentary draws from the richness of public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to provide a deeper understanding for pastors, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Contextual Background

The context of Isaiah 26 is a song of praise reflecting the hope and faith of God's people. The chapter contrasts the security of the righteous with the fate of the wicked. Israel's confidence is rooted in God's ability to bring low those who oppose Him, especially nations that defy His will.

Verse Analysis

Isaiah 26:5 can be broken down into key components:

The Divine Action: "He bringeth down" signifies God's active role in history. Both Matthew Henry and Adam Clarke emphasize that this act is not merely one of destruction but serves a higher purpose of establishing justice.
The Lofty City: This symbolizes pride and human arrogance. Albert Barnes notes that cities often represent power and defiance against divine authority, which explains why they are frequent targets of God's judgment.
Being Laid Low: The repetition of “he layeth it low” underscores God's omnipotence over human constructs. God's judgment is thorough and final, as discussed by Henry, who believes this reflects God's ability to overturn even the most fortified establishments.
To the Dust: This phrase indicates a complete obliteration of pride. Clarke stresses that bringing a city “to the dust” illustrates the totality of God's judgment, which leaves no semblance of the prideful foundation.

Theological Implications

This verse offers deep theological implications for understanding God's nature as sovereign, just, and involved in human affairs:

God's Sovereignty: The ability to humble nations demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty over creation. It serves as a reminder that no human enterprise can stand against divine purpose.
The Nature of Sin: The lofty city symbolizes the consequences of pride and rebellion against God. The inevitable downfall serves as a caution against reliance on human strength and wisdom.
Hope for the Righteous: For those who are faithful, this verse represents assurance that God will ultimately vindicate His people. It speaks to the hopes of the Israelites, assuring them that the oppressors will not prevail eternally.

Pastoral Applications

In pastoral settings, Isaiah 26:5 carries significant applications:

Encouragement for the Oppressed: This verse is a powerful reminder to those who face injustice that God is aware and will act against the proud.
Call to Humility: Pastors can encourage their congregants to reflect on personal pride and the importance of humility before God’s sovereignty.
Divine Justice: Preaching about God's justice allows believers to trust in His timing and plan against societal injustices.

Conclusion

Isaiah 26:5 encapsulates the powerful truth of God’s ability to topple the proud and establish His justice. It serves as both a warning and a source of hope, reminding believers of God’s ultimate authority and the assurance of His kingdom's triumph over human arrogance. This commentary, through the lenses of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, helps deepen our understanding of this vital truth for both individual reflection and corporate worship.

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »

Isaiah 26:5 KJV

Isaiah 26:5 Bible Commentary

Isaiah 26 (KJV) Verse Selection

KJV Bible Books