King James Version

What Does Isaiah 65:4 Mean?

Isaiah 65:4 in the King James Version says “Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable things is in...” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 65 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels; broth: or, pieces”

Isaiah 65:4 · KJV

Context

2

I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts;

3

A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burneth incense upon altars of brick; upon: Heb. upon bricks

4

Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels; broth: or, pieces

5

Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day. nose: or, anger

6

Behold, it is written before me: I will not keep silence, but will recompense, even recompense into their bosom,

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
'Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels.' Further abominations: necromancy (consulting the dead), swine consumption (explicitly forbidden in Leviticus 11:7), and unclean food. These are not accidents but deliberate violations of known law.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Necromancy was practiced in Canaan and strictly forbidden (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Swine were sacrificed in pagan rituals. These practices represented complete apostasy from covenant faithfulness.

Reflection Questions

  1. What forbidden practices do people today engage in while claiming faith?
  2. How do dietary laws represent larger principles of holiness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
הַיֹּֽשְׁבִים֙1 of 10

“Which remain”

H3427

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בַּקְּבָרִ֔ים2 of 10

“among the graves”

H6913

a sepulcher

וּבַנְּצוּרִ֖ים3 of 10

“in the monuments”

H5341

to guard, in a good sense (to protect, maintain, obey, etc.) or a bad one (to conceal, etc.)

יָלִ֑ינוּ4 of 10

“and lodge”

H3885

to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)

הָאֹֽכְלִים֙5 of 10

“which eat”

H398

to eat (literally or figuratively)

בְּשַׂ֣ר6 of 10

“flesh”

H1320

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

הַחֲזִ֔יר7 of 10

“swine's”

H2386

a hog (perhaps as penned)

וּפְרַ֥ק8 of 10
H6564

soup (as full of crumbed meat)

פִּגֻּלִ֖ים9 of 10

“of abominable”

H6292

properly, fetid, i.e., (figuratively) unclean (ceremonially)

כְּלֵיהֶֽם׃10 of 10

“things is in their vessels”

H3627

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

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 65:4 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 65:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 66:17Leviticus 11:7Isaiah 66:3Deuteronomy 14:8Ezekiel 4:14Deuteronomy 18:11

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