Isaiah 9:20

They carve out what is on the right, but they are still hungry; they eat what is on the left, but they are still not satisfied. Each one devours the flesh of his own offspring.

Study Bible

They carve out on the right
The phrase "carve out on the right" suggests an act of taking or consuming with a sense of desperation or greed. In the Hebrew context, the right side often symbolizes strength or favor. Here, it implies that despite using their strength or favored position to acquire resources, the people remain unfulfilled. This reflects a spiritual truth that material pursuits, even when seemingly successful, cannot satisfy the deeper needs of the soul. Historically, this could be seen as a critique of Israel's reliance on their own power and alliances rather than trusting in God.

but still are hungry
The hunger described here is not merely physical but also spiritual and emotional. The Hebrew word for hunger, "ra'eb," can denote a deep, gnawing emptiness. This highlights the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of God's provision. In a broader biblical context, this echoes the theme found throughout Scripture that true satisfaction comes only from God, as seen in Jesus' declaration in John 6:35, "I am the bread of life."

they devour on the left
The act of devouring on the left suggests a frantic attempt to consume or acquire from all directions. The left side, often associated with weakness or lesser favor, indicates that even in areas where they might expect less, they are still striving to fill their void. This reflects the human tendency to seek satisfaction in all the wrong places, a theme prevalent in the prophetic literature where Israel often turned to idols and foreign nations for help.

but are not satisfied
The lack of satisfaction despite their efforts underscores the emptiness of pursuits apart from God. The Hebrew word "saba," meaning to be sated or full, is notably absent here, emphasizing the insatiable nature of desires not rooted in divine provision. This serves as a warning against idolatry and self-reliance, reminding believers that only God can truly fulfill the deepest longings of the heart.

Each one devours the flesh of his own offspring
This shocking imagery of cannibalism is a hyperbolic expression of the self-destructive nature of sin and disobedience. In the historical context, it may allude to the dire circumstances during sieges, such as those experienced by Israel and Judah, where famine led to desperate acts. Spiritually, it symbolizes the ultimate consequence of turning away from God—self-destruction and the breakdown of community and family. This serves as a powerful call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness, highlighting the destructive end of a life lived apart from God's guidance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Judah and Israel, warning them of impending judgment and offering hope for future restoration.

2. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often the subject of Isaiah's prophecies, which faced judgment due to its disobedience and idolatry.

3. Judah
The Southern Kingdom, also addressed by Isaiah, which was warned of similar consequences if it followed Israel's path.

4. Assyrian Threat
The geopolitical context of Isaiah's prophecies, where the Assyrian Empire posed a significant threat to Israel and Judah.

5. Divine Judgment
The event of God's judgment upon Israel for their sins, as depicted in Isaiah's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin leads to self-destruction and dissatisfaction. Just as Israel's disobedience led to internal strife and judgment, our own sins can lead to personal and communal breakdown.

The Insatiable Nature of Sin
Sin never satisfies; it only creates a deeper hunger. This verse illustrates the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of God's will.

The Importance of Repentance
Isaiah's message serves as a call to repentance. Recognizing our own sinful tendencies and turning back to God is crucial for spiritual restoration.

The Role of Leadership
Leaders have a significant impact on the moral and spiritual direction of a community. The failure of Israel's leaders contributed to the nation's downfall, reminding us of the importance of godly leadership.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Despite the grim imagery, Isaiah's prophecies also contain promises of hope and restoration for those who turn back to God. This encourages us to seek God's mercy and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery in Isaiah 9:20 reflect the spiritual and moral state of Israel at the time?

2. In what ways can we see the insatiable nature of sin in our own lives, and how can we combat it with God's help?

3. How do the consequences described in Isaiah 9:20 relate to the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28?

4. What lessons can we learn from the leadership failures in Israel, and how can we apply them to our roles in our communities today?

5. How does the message of hope and restoration in Isaiah's prophecies encourage us in times of personal or communal judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which parallels the consequences faced by Israel as described in Isaiah.

Micah 3:3
Similar imagery of devouring flesh is used to describe the leaders' exploitation of the people, highlighting the theme of internal strife and moral decay.

Jeremiah 19:9
This passage also speaks of dire consequences, including cannibalism, as a result of disobedience and turning away from God.

Matthew 24:12
Jesus speaks of the increase of wickedness and the love of many growing cold, which can be seen as a reflection of the societal breakdown described in Isaiah.