King James Version

What Does Isaiah 57:21 Mean?

Isaiah 57:21 in the King James Version says “There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 57 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.”

Isaiah 57:21 · KJV

Peace

Context

19

I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him.

20

But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.

21

There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The chapter concludes with an absolute declaration: "There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked." This statement appears twice in Isaiah (48:22, 57:21), forming a refrain emphasizing its certainty. The Hebrew ein shalom (no peace) is emphatic—the wicked are utterly excluded from the peace God announces to His people. "Saith my God" (amar Elohai) adds personal emphasis—the prophet's covenant God declares this truth. This verse establishes the great division of humanity: the redeemed who have peace with God through faith (Romans 5:1) and the wicked who remain under wrath (John 3:36). From a Reformed perspective, this highlights the doctrine of particular redemption—Christ's peace-making work is effectual for the elect, not universally applied. It also affirms the reality of eternal punishment: those who die unreconciled to God will never experience peace, facing instead eternal restlessness and judgment. This sobering truth should drive believers to evangelism and sinners to seek Christ while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6).

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Historical & Cultural Context

This was tragically fulfilled when unrepentant Judeans experienced the horrors of Babylonian siege and exile, finding no peace in their rebellion. It continued through Israel's history whenever they persisted in covenant unfaithfulness. Ultimately, it points to the eternal separation between the righteous (who have peace through Christ) and the wicked (who face eternal judgment). The New Testament affirms this division (Matthew 25:31-46, Revelation 21:8).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse shape our understanding of the urgency of the gospel message?
  2. What distinguishes temporary troubles from the ultimate absence of peace for the wicked?
  3. How should the reality of eternal separation from God's peace motivate our evangelistic efforts?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
אֵ֣ין1 of 5
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

שָׁל֔וֹם2 of 5

“There is no peace”

H7965

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

אָמַ֥ר3 of 5

“saith”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

אֱלֹהַ֖י4 of 5

“my God”

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

לָרְשָׁעִֽים׃5 of 5

“to the wicked”

H7563

morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person

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 57:21 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 57:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 48:22Isaiah 3:112 Kings 9:22Isaiah 59:8Romans 3:16-17

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