King James Version

What Does Isaiah 1:29 Mean?

“For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the gardens that ye have chosen.”

Context

Zion shall be redeemed with judgment, and her converts with righteousness. her: or, they that return of her

And the destruction of the transgressors and of the sinners shall be together, and they that forsake the LORD shall be consumed. destruction: Heb. breaking

For they shall be ashamed of the oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the gardens that ye have chosen.

For ye shall be as an oak whose leaf fadeth, and as a garden that hath no water.

And the strong shall be as tow, and the maker of it as a spark, and they shall both burn together, and none shall quench them. maker: or, and his work

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(29) **They shall be ashamed of the oaks **. . .—Better, *terebinths. *The words point to the groves that were so closely connected with the idolatry of Canaan, especially with the worship of the *asherah, *and which the people had chosen in preference to the sanctuary of Jehovah (Isaiah 17:8; Isaiah 57:5; Isaiah 66:17; Deuteronomy 16:21; 2Kings 16:4; Jeremiah 3:6). Greek worship presents the parallels of the groves of Daphne at Antioch, and those of Dodona and of the Eumenides at Colônos. The “gardens” were the precinct planted round the central tree or grove.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Isaiah 1:29 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.