King James Version
What Does Isaiah 2:11 Mean?
“The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.”
Context
9
And the mean man boweth down, and the great man humbleth himself: therefore forgive them not.
10
Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty.
11
The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.
12
For the day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low:
13
And upon all the cedars of Lebanon, that are high and lifted up, and upon all the oaks of Bashan,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **The lofty looks of man **. . .—Better, *the lofty looks of the mean man *. . . *the haughtiness of the great man. *The self-assertion which is the essential element of pride may be found at the opposite extremes of social life.
**The Lord alone shall be exalted . . .**—The verb, as in Psalm 46:7; Psalm 46:11 (see margin and text of Authorised Version), implies the image of a rock-citadel, towering in its strength, and offering the one safe asylum in a time of danger. (Comp. also Psalm 61:2.)
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 2:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Isaiah 2:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge