King James Version

What Does Isaiah 59:12 Mean?

Isaiah 59:12 in the King James Version says “For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; ... — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 59 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them;

Isaiah 59:12 · KJV


Context

10

We grope for the wall like the blind, and we grope as if we had no eyes: we stumble at noonday as in the night; we are in desolate places as dead men.

11

We roar all like bears, and mourn sore like doves: we look for judgment, but there is none; for salvation, but it is far off from us.

12

For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them;

13

In transgressing and lying against the LORD, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood.

14

And judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Full confession: 'For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our sins testify against us: for our transgressions are with us; and as for our iniquities, we know them.' Three terms - transgressions (pesha - rebellion), sins (chata'ah - missing the mark), iniquities (avon - twisted guilt) - comprehensively confess. Sin testifies like a witness.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This confession uses the same vocabulary as the Day of Atonement rituals. Recognition of specific sins is necessary for genuine repentance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does sin 'testify against' us before God?
  2. What does it mean to 'know' your iniquities rather than denying or excusing them?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
כִּֽי1 of 12
H3588

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

רַבּ֤וּ2 of 12

are multiplied

H7231

properly, to cast together , i.e., increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad

פְשָׁעֵ֣ינוּ3 of 12

For our transgressions

H6588

a revolt (national, moral or religious)

נֶגְדֶּ֔ךָ4 of 12
H5048

a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before

וְחַטֹּאותֵ֖ינוּ5 of 12

before thee and our sins

H2403

an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

עָ֣נְתָה6 of 12

testify

H6030

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

בָּ֑נוּ7 of 12
H0
כִּֽי8 of 12
H3588

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

פְשָׁעֵ֣ינוּ9 of 12

For our transgressions

H6588

a revolt (national, moral or religious)

אִתָּ֔נוּ10 of 12
H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

וַעֲוֺנֹתֵ֖ינוּ11 of 12

are with us and as for our iniquities

H5771

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

יְדַֽעֲנֽוּם׃12 of 12

we know

H3045

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


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 59:12 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 59:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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