Isaiah 1:10

Hear the word of the LORD, you rulers of Sodom; listen to the instruction of our God, you people of Gomorrah!

Study Bible

Hear the word of the LORD
The phrase "Hear the word of the LORD" is a call to attention, urging the audience to listen to the divine message. In Hebrew, the word for "hear" is "שְׁמַע" (shema), which implies not just hearing but also understanding and obeying. This is reminiscent of the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, a central declaration of faith in Judaism. The "word of the LORD" signifies a direct communication from God, emphasizing the authority and importance of the message. Historically, prophets were seen as God's mouthpieces, and their words carried the weight of divine instruction.

you rulers of Sodom
The "rulers of Sodom" is a metaphorical reference, as the actual city of Sodom was destroyed long before Isaiah's time. Here, it symbolizes extreme wickedness and moral decay. By addressing the leaders of Judah as "rulers of Sodom," Isaiah is making a stark comparison, highlighting their corruption and the severity of their sins. This allusion would have been shocking to the original audience, as Sodom was synonymous with divine judgment due to its notorious sinfulness.

give ear to the instruction of our God
"Give ear" is another call to listen attentively, similar to "hear," but with an added emphasis on paying close attention. The Hebrew word "הַאֲזִינוּ" (ha'azinu) suggests a deeper level of listening that involves contemplation and reflection. "The instruction of our God" refers to God's teachings or law, known in Hebrew as "תּוֹרָה" (Torah). This underscores the expectation that God's people should live according to His commandments, which are designed to guide them in righteousness and justice.

you people of Gomorrah!
Like "rulers of Sodom," the "people of Gomorrah" is a metaphorical expression. Gomorrah, along with Sodom, was destroyed due to its grievous sins. By calling the people of Judah "people of Gomorrah," Isaiah is condemning their behavior and warning them of impending judgment if they do not repent. This comparison serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's ways. The historical context of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction would have been well-known, serving as a sobering warning to Isaiah's audience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book that bears his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline.

2. Sodom and Gomorrah
Ancient cities known for their wickedness and eventual destruction by God as recounted in Genesis. Here, they are used metaphorically to describe the moral state of Judah and Jerusalem.

3. Judah and Jerusalem
The southern kingdom of Israel and its capital city, which were the primary audience of Isaiah's prophecies. They are being compared to Sodom and Gomorrah due to their sinful behavior.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is calling His people to listen and repent through the prophet Isaiah.

5. Rulers and People
The leaders and inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem, who are being admonished for their sins and called to heed God's word.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Just as Sodom and Gomorrah were judged for their wickedness, so too are we called to recognize the gravity of sin in our lives and communities.

The Call to Repentance
God, through Isaiah, calls His people to listen and change their ways. This is a timeless call for us to turn from sin and seek God's forgiveness.

The Role of Leaders
The rulers of Judah are specifically addressed, highlighting the responsibility of leaders to guide their people in righteousness.

Listening to God's Word
The emphasis on hearing and listening underscores the importance of being attentive to God's instructions in Scripture.

Metaphorical Language
Understanding the use of metaphor in Scripture can deepen our comprehension of God's message and its application to our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah in Isaiah 1:10 help us understand the spiritual condition of Judah and Jerusalem?

2. In what ways can we see parallels between the sins of ancient Judah and the issues facing our society today?

3. How can leaders in the church and community take Isaiah's warning to heart and lead with integrity and righteousness?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are truly listening to and applying God's Word in our daily lives?

5. How does the theme of repentance in Isaiah 1:10 connect with the New Testament teachings on repentance and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18-19
The account of Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction provides the historical backdrop for Isaiah's metaphor, emphasizing the severity of Judah's sin.

Amos 4:11
Amos also uses the imagery of Sodom and Gomorrah to describe Israel's sinfulness, reinforcing the theme of divine judgment.

Matthew 11:23-24
Jesus references Sodom in His teachings, highlighting the seriousness of rejecting God's message and the greater accountability of those who have received more revelation.