King James Version
Isaiah 40:19 in the King James Version says “The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains.” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains.”
Isaiah 40:19 · KJV
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
Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“melteth”
H5258to pour out, especially a libation, or to cast (metal); by analogy, to anoint a king
“it over with gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
“spreadeth”
H7554to pound the earth (as a sign of passion); by analogy to expand (by hammering); by implication, to overlay (with thin sheets of metal)
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 40:19 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 40:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge