Isaiah 63:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 63:6
6 And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 63 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, salvation, prayer. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 63:6
6 And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth.
Analysis
'And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth.' The wine imagery continues - enemies are made 'drunk' with judgment. The Hebrew 'shakar' (make drunk) appears in judgment contexts. Their strength is brought low while God stands victorious.
Historical Context
Divine judgment intoxicates enemies with confusion (see Psalm 60:3). What empires thought was strength becomes staggering weakness before God's fury.
Reflection
- How does the 'drunkenness' of judgment describe confusion and defeat?
- What false strengths does God bring down to earth?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 49:26, Revelation 14:10, 16:19