King James Version
Isaiah 40:18 in the King James Version says “To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?”
Isaiah 40:18 · KJV
And Lebanon is not sufficient to burn, nor the beasts thereof sufficient for a burnt offering.
All nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.
To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?
The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains.
He that is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree that will not rot; he seeketh unto him a cunning workman to prepare a graven image, that shall not be moved. is so: Heb. is poor of oblation
KJV Study — Public Domain
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
“To whom then will ye liken”
H1819to compare; by implication, to resemble, liken, consider
“God”
H410strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“will ye compare”
H6186to set in a row, i.e., arrange, put in order (in a very wide variety of applications)
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.
Isaiah 40:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Isaiah 40:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge