Isaiah 57:9

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

وقَرَّبتِ الزَّيتَ إِلى مولَك، وكَثَّرتِ أَطْيابَكِ، وأَرسَلتِ سُفَراءَكِ إِلى بَعيد، وٱنحَطَطتِ إِلى مَثْوى الأَمْوات.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes a person who went to great lengths to seek pleasure and power, even sending messengers far away and engaging in lowly acts. The speaker is Isaiah, and the key message is about the depths one might reach in pursuit of worldly desires.

Explained for Children

Imagine you really, really want a toy, so you ask your parents for it. But when that doesn't work, you start to do things you wouldn't normally do, like begging your friends' parents or even doing chores for everyone in the neighborhood. That's kind of like what this verse is talking about.

Historical Background

Isaiah wrote this during the 8th century BCE to the people of Israel. He was addressing the corruption and idolatry prevalent in society, where people would go to extreme lengths for worldly desires, often disregarding their values.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can apply to someone who is so driven by ambition or desire that they compromise their morals or dignity. For example, a business leader might overlook unethical practices to secure a big contract.

Topics

• idolatry
• moral compromise
• ambition
• pleasure seeking
• warning
• consequences

Related Verses

• Proverbs 5:3-6
• Romans 1:24-25
• 1 Kings 11:1-8
• Hosea 4:18
• 2 Peter 2:10-15

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the 'king' mentioned in Isaiah 57:9?

The 'king' is likely symbolic, representing worldly power or authority that the person is trying to influence or impress.

What does 'debase oneself even unto hell' mean?

This phrase suggests that the person went to extreme, morally low depths in pursuit of their desires, symbolically comparing it to going to hell.

How does this verse relate to moral compromise?

The verse shows how far someone might go to achieve their goals, often compromising their moral integrity and values in the process.

What can we learn from Isaiah 57:9 about ambition?

The verse teaches that unchecked ambition can lead to moral decline and suggests that one should be careful not to compromise their values for worldly gains.