King James Version

What Does Isaiah 44:18 Mean?

Isaiah 44:18 in the King James Version says “They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they canno...” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 44 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand. shut: Heb. daubed”

Isaiah 44:18 · KJV

Context

16

He burneth part thereof in the fire; with part thereof he eateth flesh; he roasteth roast, and is satisfied: yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire:

17

And the residue thereof he maketh a god, even his graven image: he falleth down unto it, and worshippeth it, and prayeth unto it, and saith, Deliver me; for thou art my god.

18

They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand. shut: Heb. daubed

19

And none considereth in his heart, neither is there knowledge nor understanding to say, I have burned part of it in the fire; yea, also I have baked bread upon the coals thereof; I have roasted flesh, and eaten it: and shall I make the residue thereof an abomination? shall I fall down to the stock of a tree? considereth: Heb. setteth to his heart the stock: Heb. that which comes of a tree?

20

He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?

Read Isaiah 44 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Isaiah explains this blindness: 'They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.' This judicial blindness - God shutting eyes and hardening hearts - is both punishment for rebellion and explanation for persistent foolishness. The Hebrew 'tach' (to smear/plaster over) suggests eyes sealed shut.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This hardening echoes Isaiah 6:9-10 where Isaiah's ministry would harden hearers. Paul cites this regarding Israel's rejection of the gospel (Romans 11:8). Judicial blindness is both divine judgment and human responsibility.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does persistent rejection of truth lead to inability to perceive it?
  2. What is the relationship between divine hardening and human responsibility for blindness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
לֹ֥א1 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָדְע֖וּ2 of 10

“They have not known”

H3045

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

וְלֹ֣א3 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָבִ֑ינוּ4 of 10

“nor understood”

H995

to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand

כִּ֣י5 of 10
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

טַ֤ח6 of 10

“for he hath shut”

H2902

to smear, especially with lime

מֵֽרְאוֹת֙7 of 10

“that they cannot see”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

עֵֽינֵיהֶ֔ם8 of 10

“their eyes”

H5869

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

מֵהַשְׂכִּ֖יל9 of 10

“that they cannot understand”

H7919

to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent

לִבֹּתָֽם׃10 of 10

“and their hearts”

H3826

the heart

Study Guide

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 44:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Isaiah 44:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 6:9-102 Corinthians 4:3-4John 12:39-402 Thessalonians 2:9-12Jeremiah 5:21Psalms 81:12

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