Isaiah 46:7

They lift it to their shoulder and carry it along; they set it in its place, and there it stands, not budging from that spot. They cry out to it, but it does not answer; it saves no one from his troubles.

Study Bible

They lift it to their shoulders and carry it
This phrase highlights the futility of idol worship, a central theme in Isaiah 46. The Hebrew root for "lift" (נָשָׂא, nasa) implies a burden, suggesting that idols are a weight upon their worshipers rather than a source of relief. Historically, the Israelites were surrounded by nations that crafted and carried idols, believing them to be deities. This act of physically carrying an idol underscores its impotence and contrasts sharply with the omnipotence of the God of Israel, who carries His people (Isaiah 46:4).

they set it in its place, and there it stands
The phrase "set it in its place" indicates the human effort involved in establishing an idol. The Hebrew word for "set" (יַצִּיב, yatsiv) conveys the idea of fixing or establishing something in a position. This act of setting an idol in place is ironic, as it emphasizes the idol's dependency on human action. Unlike the living God, who is self-existent and active, idols are static and lifeless. This reflects the historical context of ancient Near Eastern religions, where idols were often placed in temples or shrines, yet remained immobile and powerless.

It does not move from its place
This phrase further emphasizes the immobility and impotence of idols. The Hebrew word for "move" (מוּשׁ, mush) suggests the inability to change or act. In contrast, the God of Israel is dynamic and involved in the lives of His people. The immobility of idols serves as a metaphor for their inability to effect change or provide assistance, highlighting the absurdity of relying on them for deliverance.

If one cries out to it, it cannot answer
The act of crying out to an idol is depicted as futile. The Hebrew root for "cry out" (זָעַק, za'aq) often denotes a desperate plea for help. This phrase underscores the silence of idols, which cannot respond to the needs of their worshipers. In the broader scriptural context, this contrasts with the God of Israel, who hears and answers the cries of His people (Psalm 34:17). The inability of idols to answer reflects their lack of divinity and power.

or save him from his troubles
The ultimate failure of idols is their inability to save. The Hebrew word for "save" (יָשַׁע, yasha) is often used in the context of deliverance and salvation, a central theme in the Bible. This phrase highlights the helplessness of idols in the face of human distress. Historically, people turned to idols for protection and deliverance, yet Isaiah points out their utter inadequacy. In contrast, the God of Israel is portrayed throughout scripture as a Savior who delivers His people from trouble (Isaiah 43:11).

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. Babylon
The context of Isaiah 46 is a prophecy against Babylon, a powerful empire known for its idolatry and oppression of God's people.

3. Idols
The verse specifically addresses the futility of idol worship, highlighting the inability of man-made gods to respond or save.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
Idols, whether physical or metaphorical, cannot provide the help or salvation that only God can offer. This calls us to examine what "idols" we might be relying on in our own lives.

God's Sovereignty
Unlike idols, God is sovereign and active. He hears our cries and has the power to save. This should encourage us to place our trust in Him alone.

The Call to True Worship
Worship should be directed to the living God, who is capable of responding and intervening in our lives. This challenges us to evaluate the focus and sincerity of our worship practices.

Dependence on God
In times of trouble, turning to God rather than man-made solutions is crucial. This teaches us to cultivate a habit of prayer and reliance on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "idols" that people might carry and rely on, and how do they compare to the idols described in Isaiah 46:7?

2. How does the description of idols in Isaiah 46:7 challenge us to evaluate our own sources of security and hope?

3. In what ways does the sovereignty of God, as contrasted with the impotence of idols, provide comfort and assurance in your life?

4. How can we ensure that our worship is directed towards God and not towards "idols" in our lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you relied on something other than God in a difficult situation. How might Isaiah 46:7 encourage you to respond differently in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 115:4-8
This passage similarly describes the impotence of idols, emphasizing that they have mouths but cannot speak, eyes but cannot see, and so on, drawing a parallel to Isaiah's critique.

Jeremiah 10:5
Jeremiah also speaks of idols as scarecrows in a cucumber field, unable to speak or move, reinforcing the message of their powerlessness.

1 Kings 18:26-29
The account of Elijah and the prophets of Baal illustrates the futility of calling on false gods, as Baal does not respond to his prophets' cries.