King James Version
Isaiah 42:17 in the King James Version says “They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye...” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 42 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods.”
Isaiah 42:17 · KJV
I will make waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their herbs; and I will make the rivers islands, and I will dry up the pools.
And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. straight: Heb. into straightness
They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods.
Hear, ye deaf; and look, ye blind, that ye may see.
Who is blind, but my servant? or deaf, as my messenger that I sent? who is blind as he that is perfect, and blind as the LORD'S servant?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“They shall be turned”
H5472properly, to flinch, i.e., (by implication) to go back, literally (to retreat) or figuratively (to apostatize)
“back”
H268the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
“ashamed”
H954properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
“they shall be greatly”
H1322shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol
“that trust”
H982properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
“to the molten images”
H4541properly, a pouring over, i.e., fusion of metal (especially a cast image); by implication, a libation, i.e., league; concretely a coverlet (as if pour
“Ye are our gods”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
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 42:17 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 42:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge