King James Version

What Does Isaiah 43:27 Mean?

“Thy first father hath sinned, and thy teachers have transgressed against me. teachers: Heb. interpreters”

Context

I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified.

Thy first father hath sinned, and thy teachers have transgressed against me. teachers: Heb. interpreters

Therefore I have profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and have given Jacob to the curse, and Israel to reproaches. princes: or, holy princes

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(27) **Thy first father hath sinned . . .**—The words have been interpreted: (1) of Adam; (2) of Abraham; (3) of Jacob; (4) of the ancestors of Israel collectively; (5) of this or that high priest individually. (3) fits in best. (See Isaiah 43:28.) **Thy teachers.**—Literally, *thy interpreters *(Job 33:23), or *thy mediators. *The term is used in 2Chronicles 32:31 of the “ambassadors “of the king of Babylon, and stands here for the priests and the prophets, who ought officially to have been the expounders of the Divine will.

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 43:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.