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Isaiah 33

24 verses

TL;DR

Isaiah 33 warns of judgment against deceitful nations while promising the LORD’s restoration of Zion and righteousness for the upright.

Summary

The chapter opens with a paradoxical admonition to the corrupt, noting that their treachery will eventually be turned against them. The LORD is called upon for mercy and as a protective arm, promising deliverance amid trouble. The text describes the ruin of oppressive powers, the lament of the earth, and the destruction of nations like Lebanon and Bashan. The prophet then shifts to a vision of the LORD’s exalted self‑upbringing, a call to righteousness, and the blessing of those who reject bribery and injustice. The passage concludes with assurances of Jerusalem’s enduring sanctity, the Lord’s judgment, and the redemption of the afflicted.

Outline
  1. 1. Judgment upon corrupt nations and call for repentance
  2. 2. The LORD’s exaltation and promise of restoration for Zion
  3. 3. Righteous conduct rewarded, sin forgiven, Jerusalem preserved
Themes
Divine judgmentRighteousness and repentanceRestoration of Jerusalem
Keywords
judgmentrighteousnessfirebribessorrowprotectionredemptionZionJerusalem
People
LORD
Places
ZionJerusalemLebanonSharonBashanCarmel
Things
firebribesjudgmentrighteousnesshigh placehighwaysbroad rivers
Key Verses
  • Isaiah 33:5: Highlights the LORD’s exalted position and righteousness in Zion.
  • Isaiah 33:15: Describes the moral ideal of the righteous and his promised protection.
  • Isaiah 33:20: Affirms the eternal stability of Jerusalem and the LORD’s protective presence.
Questions
  • How does Isaiah 33 juxtapose judgment with hope for the people of Zion?
  • In what ways does the chapter portray the LORD’s dual role as judge and savior?
  • What practical lessons can contemporary believers draw from the call to reject bribery and injustice?
Sentiment

mixed
The chapter presents a sober warning of judgment alongside hopeful restoration.