Isaiah 64:9

Do not be angry, O LORD, beyond measure; do not remember our iniquity forever. Oh, look upon us, we pray; we are all Your people!

Study Bible

Do not be angry, O LORD, beyond measure
The plea begins with a heartfelt request for God to temper His anger. The Hebrew word for "angry" here is "קָצַף" (qatsaph), which conveys a sense of intense displeasure or wrath. In the context of the Old Testament, God's anger is often depicted as a response to the covenantal unfaithfulness of His people. The phrase "beyond measure" suggests a desire for God's anger to be limited, highlighting the hope for divine mercy. Historically, this reflects the Israelites' understanding of God as both just and compassionate, a deity who disciplines but also forgives.

do not remember iniquity forever
The word "remember" in Hebrew is "זָכַר" (zakar), which implies an active recalling or bringing to mind. The plea for God not to remember iniquity "forever" is a request for forgiveness and the removal of sin from divine memory. This reflects a deep understanding of God's nature as one who can choose to forgive and forget transgressions. Theologically, this aligns with the concept of divine grace, where God, in His mercy, chooses not to hold our sins against us eternally.

Look upon us, we pray
"Look upon" translates the Hebrew "נָבַט" (nabat), meaning to regard or consider with attention. This is a call for God to turn His face towards His people, a metaphor for divine favor and presence. The phrase "we pray" indicates a humble petition, acknowledging human dependence on God's benevolence. In the historical context, this reflects the Israelites' desire for restoration and reconciliation with God, seeking His guidance and blessing.

for we are all Your people
The declaration "we are all Your people" emphasizes a collective identity rooted in a covenant relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), signifying a group bound by shared heritage and divine promise. This phrase underscores the communal aspect of faith, where the people of Israel see themselves as belonging to God, despite their failings. It is a reminder of the enduring covenant between God and His chosen people, a relationship based on love, commitment, and divine election.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who authored the book, delivering messages from God to the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whom Isaiah addresses in this plea for mercy.

3. The People of Israel
The nation chosen by God, often straying from His commandments, yet seeking His forgiveness and restoration.

4. Judah and Jerusalem
The primary audience of Isaiah's prophecies, representing the southern kingdom of Israel.

5. The Exile
The context of the plea, as the people face the consequences of their sins, including the Babylonian exile.

Teaching Points

God's Mercy and Patience
God is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. We are encouraged to approach Him with humility, seeking His mercy.

The Nature of Repentance
True repentance involves acknowledging our sins and turning back to God, trusting in His willingness to forgive.

Identity as God's People
Despite our failures, we are reminded of our identity as God's people, chosen and loved by Him.

The Importance of Intercession
Isaiah's prayer serves as a model for interceding on behalf of others, asking God to remember His covenant promises.

Hope in Restoration
Even in times of judgment, there is hope for restoration and renewal through God's grace and forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Isaiah's plea in Isaiah 64:9 reflect the character of God as described in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of repentance from this verse to our daily lives?

3. How does understanding our identity as God's people influence our relationship with Him and with others?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in our spiritual lives, and how can we incorporate it more effectively?

5. How can the hope of restoration and forgiveness in Isaiah 64:9 encourage us in times of personal or communal crisis?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 79:8-9
This passage echoes a similar plea for God not to remember past iniquities and to show compassion.

Jeremiah 31:34
Highlights God's promise to forgive iniquity and remember sins no more, pointing to the new covenant.

2 Chronicles 7:14
Emphasizes the call for God's people to humble themselves, pray, and seek His face for healing and forgiveness.

Romans 11:1-2
Paul discusses God's enduring relationship with Israel, affirming that God has not rejected His people.

1 John 1:9
Offers assurance of forgiveness and cleansing from sin when we confess, reflecting God's faithfulness and justice.