Isaiah 66:17

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

Die Here sê: Almal sal doodgaan wat hulleself afsonder en hulleself toewy aan die afgodsdiens in die groen parke waar hulle varkvleis en rotte en vleis wat verbode is, eet.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Isaiah says that people who try to be holy by following their own ways, especially ones that involve eating unclean things, will be destroyed. God is speaking and warns that such practices will not lead to true purity.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you tried to clean yourself by playing in a dirty puddle instead of taking a bath. God is saying that the people who do wrong things thinking they are being good will end up in big trouble.

Historical Background

Isaiah wrote this around 700 BC to the people of Judah. He was warning them against false religious practices that involved idol worship and eating unclean foods, which were common in surrounding cultures.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this can apply to people who think their own methods of 'spiritual cleansing' are valid when they clearly go against God's teachings. For example, some might think that engaging in certain practices or rituals not sanctioned by God can lead to true holiness, but this verse warns against such thinking.

Topics

• purity
• idolatry
• dietary laws
• God's judgment
• spiritual practices
• true holiness

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 14:3
• Ezekiel 44:25
• Mark 7:19
• Romans 14:14
• 1 Corinthians 8:8

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to sanctify oneself?

Sanctifying oneself means trying to make oneself holy or pure, often through certain religious practices or rituals.

Why is eating swine's flesh mentioned in this verse?

Eating swine's flesh is considered unclean in Jewish law. It symbolizes following practices that are against God's commandments.

What does God mean by 'consumed together'?

'Consumed together' refers to being destroyed or punished, indicating that those who follow false practices will face God's judgment.

How does this verse apply to modern Christians?

Modern Christians can understand this verse as a warning against false religious practices and the importance of following God's true commands for holiness.