King James Version

What Does Isaiah 66:6 Mean?

Isaiah 66:6 in the King James Version says “A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies.” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 66 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies.”

Isaiah 66:6 · KJV

Context

4

I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not. delusions: or, devices

5

Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed.

6

A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies.

7

Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.

8

Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.

Read Isaiah 66 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
A mysterious voice announces judgment: "A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies." Three parallel phrases build intensity—noise from the city, voice from the temple, then revealed as the LORD's voice. The Hebrew qol (voice) and shaon (noise/tumult) suggest a loud, decisive announcement. God renders gemul (recompense) to His enemies—settling accounts, executing justice. The ambiguity about whether this is destruction or deliverance (or both) fits Isaiah's style. It could reference judgment on Jerusalem's enemies or on Jerusalem itself for apostasy. From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates that God's voice brings either salvation or judgment—it's never neutral. The same gospel is the aroma of life to some, death to others (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). God's presence brings joy to His people and terror to His enemies. The temple/city imagery may point toward AD 70 when judgment came on apostate Jerusalem, or eschatologically to final judgment when Christ returns in glory.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This prophecy was partially fulfilled when Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and the temple (586 BC)—God's voice of judgment on His own people for covenant violation. It was fulfilled again in AD 70 when Rome destroyed the second temple—judgment on apostate Israel for rejecting Messiah (Matthew 23:37-38, 24:1-2, Luke 19:41-44). The pattern continues: God's voice brings decisive judgment or salvation. Ultimate fulfillment comes at Christ's return when He judges His enemies and vindicates His people (2 Thessalonians 1:6-10, Revelation 19:11-21).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's voice function as both salvation for His people and judgment for His enemies?
  2. What does the ambiguity of this prophecy teach about multiple levels of fulfillment?
  3. How should we understand God's judgment coming 'from the temple'—His own dwelling place?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
ק֣וֹל1 of 10

“A voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

שָׁאוֹן֙2 of 10

“of noise”

H7588

uproar (as of rushing); by implication, destruction

מֵעִ֔יר3 of 10

“from the city”

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

ק֣וֹל4 of 10

“A voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

מֵֽהֵיכָ֑ל5 of 10

“from the temple”

H1964

a large public building, such as a palace or temple

ק֣וֹל6 of 10

“A voice”

H6963

a voice or sound

יְהוָ֔ה7 of 10

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מְשַׁלֵּ֥ם8 of 10

“that rendereth”

H7999

to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate

גְּמ֖וּל9 of 10

“recompence”

H1576

treatment, i.e., an act (of good or ill); by implication, service or requital

לְאֹיְבָֽיו׃10 of 10

“to his enemies”

H341

hating; an adversary

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 66:6 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 66:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joel 3:7-16Amos 1:2Isaiah 34:8Isaiah 65:5-7Isaiah 59:18

Test Your Knowledge

Isaiah 66 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterIsaiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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