King James Version
What Does Isaiah 47:3 Mean?
“Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet thee as a man.”
Context
1
Come down, and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of Babylon, sit on the ground: there is no throne, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called tender and delicate.
2
Take the millstones, and grind meal: uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh, pass over the rivers.
3
Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet thee as a man.
4
As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.
5
Sit thou silent, and get thee into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called, The lady of kingdoms.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **I will not meet thee as a man.**—The words in italics show that the phrase is difficult. Omitting them we get *I shall not meet a man, i.e., *there will be none to oppose me, or *I will not spare a man.*
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 47:3 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 47:3
Nahum 3:5
→Jeremiah 51:20-24
→Jeremiah 50:27-28
→Revelation 16:19
→Deuteronomy 32:41-43
→Deuteronomy 32:35
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge