Isaiah 57:6

Your portion is among the smooth stones of the valley; indeed, they are your lot. Even to them you have poured out a drink offering and offered a grain offering. Should I relent because of these?

Study Bible

Your portion is among the smooth stones of the valley
The phrase "smooth stones of the valley" refers to the practice of idolatry prevalent among the Israelites during Isaiah's time. The Hebrew word for "smooth stones" is "חַלָּק" (chalak), which can also mean "slippery" or "deceptive." This imagery suggests the allure and deceit of idol worship, which was often conducted in secluded valleys. Historically, these valleys were sites of pagan rituals, where stones were venerated as deities. The "portion" indicates a chosen inheritance or destiny, implying that the people have chosen idolatry over their covenant with God.

indeed, they are your lot
The term "lot" (Hebrew: "גּוֹרָל" - goral) signifies a destiny or fate, often determined by casting lots. In a spiritual sense, it reflects the consequences of the Israelites' choices. By aligning themselves with idols, they have determined their own spiritual inheritance, which is separation from God. This serves as a warning about the dangers of forsaking divine guidance for worldly or false securities.

Yes, to them you have poured out drink offerings
"Drink offerings" (Hebrew: "נֶסֶךְ" - nesek) were libations poured out as part of worship rituals. In the context of idol worship, these offerings were made to false gods, signifying devotion and allegiance. The act of pouring out drink offerings to idols highlights the misplaced worship and the spiritual adultery of the people. It underscores the gravity of their actions, as they have diverted what belongs to God to lifeless idols.

and offered grain offerings
"Grain offerings" (Hebrew: "מִנְחָה" - minchah) were typically offerings of flour or grain, symbolizing the fruits of one's labor and thanksgiving to God. Offering these to idols represents a profound betrayal of the covenant relationship with Yahweh. Historically, such offerings were integral to Israelite worship, meant to honor God and acknowledge His provision. By offering them to idols, the people have not only violated the first commandment but have also shown ingratitude for God's blessings.

Should I relent because of these?
This rhetorical question from God challenges the people to consider the seriousness of their actions. The Hebrew word for "relent" (נָחַם - nacham) can mean to comfort or to change one's mind. Here, it implies divine judgment and the impossibility of God overlooking their idolatry. It serves as a call to repentance, emphasizing that God's patience has limits when faced with persistent unfaithfulness. The question invites reflection on the nature of true worship and the consequences of turning away from God.

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. Smooth Stones of the Valley
These stones symbolize the idols or false gods that the Israelites were worshiping. In ancient Near Eastern culture, stones were often used as objects of worship or as altars.

3. Drink Offerings and Grain Offerings
These were types of sacrifices made to deities. In the context of Isaiah 57:6, they represent the Israelites' misplaced devotion to idols instead of the one true God.

4. The Valley
This could refer to a literal valley where idol worship took place, or metaphorically, it represents a low point in Israel's spiritual state.

5. God's Reluctance to Relent
This highlights God's righteous judgment and His call for repentance. Despite the people's idolatry, God questions whether He should forgive them without genuine repentance.

Teaching Points

Idolatry in Modern Times
While we may not worship physical idols, anything that takes precedence over God in our lives can become an idol. Reflect on what "smooth stones" might exist in your life today.

True Worship
God desires sincere worship and devotion. Evaluate your spiritual practices to ensure they are directed toward God and not empty rituals.

Repentance and Forgiveness
God is willing to forgive, but He seeks genuine repentance. Consider areas in your life where you need to turn back to God.

God's Righteous Judgment
Understand that God's reluctance to relent is not due to a lack of mercy but a call to holiness and righteousness.

Covenant Faithfulness
Reflect on the importance of remaining faithful to God's covenant, as the Israelites were called to do.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "smooth stones" that can become idols in our lives, and how can we identify them?

2. How does the concept of offering sacrifices to idols in Isaiah 57:6 relate to the way we prioritize our time and resources today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is genuine and not just a ritualistic practice?

4. How does understanding God's righteous judgment in Isaiah 57:6 help us appreciate His mercy and call to repentance?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Isaiah 57:6 to strengthen our covenant relationship with God in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, which the Israelites are violating in Isaiah 57:6.

Jeremiah 2:13
The metaphor of forsaking God, the "spring of living water," for broken cisterns, similar to choosing idols over God.

1 Kings 18:21
Elijah's challenge to the Israelites to choose between God and Baal, reflecting the choice between true worship and idolatry.

Romans 1:25
The New Testament perspective on exchanging the truth of God for a lie, paralleling the idolatry in Isaiah 57:6.

1 John 5:21
A New Testament exhortation to keep away from idols, reinforcing the timelessness of this command.