Isaiah 32:5-8

5 No longer will the fool be called noble nor the scoundrel be highly respected.
6 For fools speak folly, their hearts are bent on evil: They practice ungodliness and spread error concerning the LORD; the hungry they leave empty and from the thirsty they withhold water.
7 Scoundrels use wicked methods, they make up evil schemes to destroy the poor with lies, even when the plea of the needy is just.
8 But the noble make noble plans, and by noble deeds they stand.

Isaiah 32:5-8 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO ISAIAH 32

This chapter contains a prophecy of the Messiah; for, however applicable it may be to Hezekiah, as a type of Christ, it only has its full accomplishment in him, and in his times; who is described as a righteous King, and as having just princes ruling under him, Isa 32:1 and as a very great blessing, protection, and comfort to his subjects, Isa 32:2 when follows a prediction of great light and knowledge that should be in his days, Isa 32:3,4 and of the vileness, hypocrisy, and covetousness of the Jews in his times, Isa 32:5-8 and of the destruction of their country, because of their sins, of which they seemed greatly insensible, and were unconcerned about it, and are therefore called upon to lament it, Isa 32:9-14 which should continue until there would be a very great effusion of the Spirit, as should make the world, comparable to a wilderness, fruitful in grace and good works; the consequence of which is great prosperity, peace, and safety, to the saints, Isa 32:15-18 and destruction to their enemies, particularly the city of Rome, Isa 32:19 and the chapter is concluded with the happiness of the Gospel ministration, and the success of it, Isa 32:20.

Cross References 12

  • 1. S 1 Samuel 25:25
  • 2. S Proverbs 19:3
  • 3. S Proverbs 24:2; S Isaiah 26:10
  • 4. S Isaiah 9:17
  • 5. Isaiah 3:12; Isaiah 9:16
  • 6. S Isaiah 3:15
  • 7. Jeremiah 5:26-28; Daniel 12:10
  • 8. S Isaiah 29:20; Micah 7:3
  • 9. S Psalms 72:4; Isaiah 29:19; Isaiah 61:1
  • 10. S Isaiah 29:21
  • 11. 1 Chronicles 29:9; S Proverbs 11:25
  • 12. Isaiah 14:24
Scripture quoted by permission.  Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®.  NIV®.  Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica.  All rights reserved worldwide.