Isaiah 49:15

"Can a woman forget her nursing child, or lack compassion for the son of her womb? Even if she could forget, I will not forget you!

Study Bible

Can a woman forget her nursing child
This phrase begins with a rhetorical question that draws on the deep, instinctual bond between a mother and her child. The Hebrew word for "forget" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which implies a lapse in memory or attention. In ancient Israel, the image of a nursing mother was a powerful symbol of care and nurturing. The question suggests the improbability of a mother forgetting her child, emphasizing the natural, almost unbreakable connection. This sets the stage for understanding God's even greater commitment to His people.

or lack compassion for the son of her womb?
The phrase "lack compassion" translates from the Hebrew "רָחַם" (racham), which means to have mercy or show deep love. The "son of her womb" highlights the intimate relationship and the natural compassion a mother has for her child. In the cultural context of the Bible, a mother's compassion was one of the strongest human emotions, often used to illustrate God's tender care and mercy. This comparison underscores the depth of God's love, suggesting that even if human love fails, divine love remains steadfast.

Even if she could forget
Here, the text acknowledges the remote possibility of a mother forgetting her child, which serves to heighten the contrast with God's nature. The hypothetical scenario is meant to illustrate the limits of human love and reliability. In the ancient world, where survival often depended on family bonds, the idea of a mother forgetting her child would be shocking, thus reinforcing the message of God's unfailing remembrance.

I will not forget you!
This declaration is the climax of the verse, where God affirms His unwavering commitment to His people. The Hebrew word for "forget" is again "שָׁכַח" (shakach), but here it is used to emphasize God's promise. Unlike human relationships, which can falter, God's relationship with His people is eternal and unchanging. This assurance would have been particularly comforting to the Israelites, who faced exile and uncertainty. It serves as a reminder of God's covenant faithfulness, a theme that runs throughout the Bible, assuring believers of His constant presence and care.

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 and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2. Zion
Often used to refer to Jerusalem or the people of Israel, Zion is the context in which God is speaking in Isaiah 49, addressing the concerns and fears of His people.

3. God
The speaker in this verse, God is expressing His unwavering commitment and love for His people, using the metaphor of a mother's love to illustrate His faithfulness.

4. Nursing Child
Represents the most vulnerable and dependent members of society, highlighting the natural bond and compassion expected between a mother and her child.

5. Israel
The nation to whom God is speaking, often depicted as God's chosen people who are in need of reassurance of His love and remembrance.

Teaching Points

God's Unfailing Love
God's love surpasses even the most natural and profound human bonds, such as that of a mother and her child. His commitment to His people is unwavering and eternal.

Divine Remembrance
Unlike human forgetfulness, God's memory is perfect. He never forgets His promises or His people, providing a foundation of trust and security.

Comfort in Times of Doubt
In moments of feeling forgotten or abandoned, believers can find solace in God's promise that He will not forget them, offering peace and reassurance.

The Nature of God's Compassion
God's compassion is deep and abiding, serving as a model for how believers should show compassion to others, reflecting His love in their relationships.

Trust in God's Promises
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, knowing that His word is true and His love is steadfast, even when circumstances seem contrary.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of a mother's love help us understand God's love for us in Isaiah 49:15?

2. In what ways can we remind ourselves of God's promises when we feel forgotten or abandoned?

3. How can we apply the assurance of God's unfailing love in our daily lives, especially in challenging times?

4. What are some practical ways we can reflect God's compassion to those around us?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Psalm 27:10 and Hebrews 13:5, reinforce the message of God's remembrance and faithfulness found in Isaiah 49:15?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 27:10
This verse echoes the theme of God's unfailing love and remembrance, even when human relationships fail.

Matthew 6:26
Jesus speaks of God's care for His creation, emphasizing that if God cares for the birds, He will certainly care for His people.

Hebrews 13:5
This verse reassures believers of God's promise to never leave nor forsake them, similar to the assurance given in Isaiah 49:15.