Isaiah 29:8
Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)
وَكَمَا يَحْلُمُ الْجَائِعُ أَنَّهُ يَأْكُلُ ثُمَّ يَسْتَيْقِظُ مِنْ غَيْرِ أَنْ يُشْبِعَ جُوعَهُ، وَكَمَا يَحْلُمُ الظَّامِئُ أَنَّهُ يَشْرَبُ ثُمَّ يَفِيقُ مِنْ غَيْرِ أَنْ يَرْتَوِيَ عَطَشُهُ، هَكَذَا يَكُونُ جُمْهُورُ الأُمَمِ كُلِّهَا الْمُحَارِبِينَ عَلَى جَبَلِ صِهْيَوْنَ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Isaiah compares the disappointment of those who fight against Mount Zion to the feeling of waking up from a satisfying meal or drink, only to realize the reality is still empty and thirsty. Isaiah is speaking, predicting that those who oppose God's people will be let down.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're really hungry and you dream about eating your favorite food. You wake up feeling full and happy, but then you realize it was just a dream and you're still hungry. That's how the people fighting against God's people will feel when they realize they won't get what they wanted.
Historical Background
The prophet Isaiah wrote this around 700 BC, speaking to the people of Judah during a time of political and military threats. Isaiah often used vivid imagery to convey messages about God's protection and judgment.
Living It Out Today
In modern terms, this verse applies to situations where people invest their hopes and resources in something that ultimately fails to satisfy, like chasing wealth or fame without a deeper sense of purpose or faith. They might feel a temporary high but wake up to find their efforts were futile.
Topics
disappointmenthopejudgmentprotectionfaithGod's people
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of Isaiah 29:8?
The main message is that those who oppose God's people will face disappointment, much like waking up from a dream where one eats or drinks but finds themselves still hungry or thirsty in reality.
Why does Isaiah use the imagery of hunger and thirst?
Isaiah uses this imagery to vividly illustrate the stark contrast between temporary satisfaction and lasting disappointment, emphasizing the futility of opposing God's will.
How does this verse relate to the theme of judgment?
It reflects the theme of judgment by showing the outcome for those who challenge God's authority; they will face the reality of their vain efforts.
What can we learn about hope from this verse?
We learn that true hope lies in aligning our actions and desires with God's will, rather than pursuing empty dreams or transient satisfactions.
Compare Isaiah 29:8 across all translations →