What does Isaiah 33:15 mean?
"He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;" - Isaiah 33:15
Isaiah 33:15 (KJV) states, "He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil."
This verse from the book of Isaiah is a powerful statement about righteousness, integrity, and moral uprightness. It outlines several key principles that define a person who seeks to live a life that is pleasing to God. In this commentary, we will explore the themes, context, and symbolism found in Isaiah 33:15.
The theme of righteousness is central to this verse. The passage emphasizes the importance of walking in a manner that is pleasing to God. This involves not only our external actions but also the attitudes and intentions of our hearts. The verse challenges us to speak uprightly, showing that our words should reflect the truth and be free from deceit. This also extends to our actions, as we are called to despise the gain of oppressions and refrain from accepting bribes. These principles are foundational to a life of righteousness and integrity.
Contextually, this verse is part of a larger passage in which the prophet Isaiah is delivering a message of warning and hope to the people of Judah. The nation was facing imminent destruction at the hands of the Assyrian army, and Isaiah's words were meant to challenge the people to turn back to God and seek His protection. In the midst of a corrupt and sinful society, Isaiah's message was a call to personal and collective repentance, emphasizing the need for righteous living and a rejection of the evils that had permeated their culture.
Symbolically, the actions described in Isaiah 33:15 serve as a representation of the qualities that define a person of integrity and righteousness. Walking righteously and speaking uprightly symbolize a life that is characterized by honesty, transparency, and moral uprightness. The rejection of the gain of oppressions and bribes symbolizes a refusal to participate in or benefit from unjust and unethical practices. Similarly, stopping one's ears from hearing of blood and shutting one's eyes from seeing evil represent a deliberate turning away from violence and immorality.
Overall, Isaiah 33:15 presents a timeless message about the importance of living a life of righteousness and integrity. It challenges us to examine our thoughts, words, and actions, and to strive for moral uprightness in all areas of our lives. The context of impending judgment and destruction serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. The symbolism found in the verse offers a vivid representation of the qualities that define a person of integrity and righteousness. Ultimately, Isaiah 33:15 urges us to embrace a life that is pleasing to God and to reject the evils that can so easily entangle us. It is a call to pursue righteousness in all aspects of our lives, and to be a light in a world that is often filled with darkness and corruption.
Have questions about Isaiah 33:15?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Isaiah 33:15 Artwork
Isaiah 33:15 - "He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;"
Isaiah 33:15-16 - "He who walks righteously and speaks what is right, who rejects gain from extortion and keeps his hand from accepting bribes, who stops his ears against plots of murder and shuts his eyes against contemplating evil— this is the man who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. His bread will be supplied, and water will not fail him."
"He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;" - Isaiah 33:15
"He who walks righteously and speaks what is right, who rejects gain from extortion and keeps his hand from accepting bribes, who stops his ears against plots of murder and shuts his eyes against contemplating evil— this is the man who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. His bread will be supplied, and water will not fail him." - Isaiah 33:15-16
Isaiah 33:6
Isaiah 33:6
Isaiah 33:6
Joshua 15:33 - "And in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah,"
Romans 15:33 - "Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen."
Numbers 33:15 - "And they departed from Rephidim, and pitched in the wilderness of Sinai."
Isaiah 33:12 - "And the people shall be as the burnings of lime: as thorns cut up shall they be burned in the fire."
Isaiah 33:3 - "At the noise of the tumult the people fled; at the lifting up of thyself the nations were scattered."
Proverbs 15:33 - "The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility."
1 Corinthians 15:33 - "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners."
Psalms 33:15 - "He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works."
Deuteronomy 33:15 - "And for the chief things of the ancient mountains, and for the precious things of the lasting hills,"
Isaiah 33:5 - "The LORD is exalted; for he dwelleth on high: he hath filled Zion with judgment and righteousness."
Isaiah 33:7 - "Behold, their valiant ones shall cry without: the ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly."
Isaiah 33:22 - "For the LORD is our judge, the LORD is our lawgiver, the LORD is our king; he will save us."
Isaiah 33:6 - "And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure."
Isaiah 33:24 - "And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity."
"And in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah," - Joshua 15:33
Isaiah 33:17 - "Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off."
Isaiah 33:13 - "¶ Hear, ye that are far off, what I have done; and, ye that are near, acknowledge my might."
Isaiah 33:18 - "Thine heart shall meditate terror. Where is the scribe? where is the receiver? where is he that counted the towers?"
Isaiah 33:10 - "Now will I rise, saith the LORD; now will I be exalted; now will I lift up myself."
Mark 15:33 - "And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour."
Numbers 15:33 - "And they that found him gathering sticks brought him unto Moses and Aaron, and unto all the congregation."
Exodus 33:15 - "And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence."
Isaiah 33:4 - "And your spoil shall be gathered like the gathering of the caterpiller: as the running to and fro of locusts shall he run upon them."