◄ Isaiah 57 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Blessed Death of the Righteous 1The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one considers that the righteous are taken away from the presence of evil. 2Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest, lying down in death. God Condemns Idolatry 3“But come here, you sons of a sorceress, you offspring of adulterers and prostitutes! 4Whom are you mocking? At whom do you sneer and stick out your tongue? Are you not children of transgression, offspring of deceit, 5who burn with lust among the oaks, under every luxuriant tree, who slaughter your children in the valleys, under the clefts of the rocks? 6Your 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? 7On a high and lofty hill you have made your bed, and there you went up to offer sacrifices. 8Behind the door and doorpost you have set up your memorial. Forsaking Me, you uncovered your bed; you climbed up and opened it wide. And you have made a pact with those whose bed you have loved; you have gazed upon their nakedness. 9You went to Molecha with oil and multiplied your perfumes. You have sent your envoysb a great distance; you have descended even to Sheol itself. 10You are wearied by your many journeys, but you did not say, “There is no hope!” You found renewal of your strength; therefore you did not grow weak. 11Whom have you dreaded and feared, so that you lied and failed to remember Me or take this to heart? Is it not because I have long been silent that you do not fear Me? 12I will expose your righteousness and your works, and they will not profit you. 13When you cry out, let your companies of idols deliver you! Yet the wind will carry off all of them, a breath will take them away. But he who seeks refuge in Me will inherit the land and possess My holy mountain.” Healing for the Repentant 14And it will be said, “Build it up, build it up, prepare the way, take every obstacle out of the way of My people.” 15For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in a high and holy place, and with the oppressed and humble in spirit, to restore the spirit of the lowly and revive the heart of the contrite. 16For I will not accuse you forever, nor will I always be angry; for then the spirit of man would grow weak before Me— the breath of life I have made. 17I was enraged by his sinful greed, so I struck him and hid My face in anger; yet he kept turning back to the desires of his heart. 18I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him and his mourners, 19bringing praise to their lips. Peace, peace to those far and near,” says the LORD, “and I will heal them.” 20But the wicked are like the storm-tossed sea, for it cannot be still, and its waves churn up mire and muck. 21“There is no peace,” says my God, “for the wicked.” Footnotes: 9 a Or to the king 9 b Or idols Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 57 Summary Healing for the Repentant Verses 1–2 – The Righteous Taken Away Isaiah laments that good people disappear and no one notices that the Lord is sparing them from coming trouble. “They enter into peace; they rest in their beds” in quiet fellowship with God. Verses 3–10 – Shameless Idolatry and Immorality The prophet calls the nation “sons of a sorceress,” exposing lust-filled rituals under leafy trees, child sacrifice in rocky ravines, and political “love affairs” with foreign powers. Israel has traveled far and spent much chasing empty gods, yet refuses to admit defeat. Verses 11–13 – Empty Reliance on Created Things God asks why His people fear everything except Him. Their “righteous acts” will be unmasked as worthless; when trouble hits, their idols will blow away like dust. Yet anyone who “seeks refuge in Me will possess the land.” Verses 14–19 – The Highway of Restoration and Peace A voice orders, “Build it up, prepare the way.” The High and Exalted One promises to dwell with the humble, to heal, guide, and comfort. He proclaims “Peace, peace to those far and near” and pledges to revive broken hearts. Verses 20–21 – No Peace for the Wicked The wicked resemble the restless sea, forever churning up muck. God’s closing word stands firm: “There is no peace…for the wicked.” In Isaiah 57, the prophet Isaiah continues his discourse by addressing the widespread unfaithfulness and idolatry amongst God's chosen people. The chapter is a sharp rebuke to those who have turned away from God, while also providing comforting reassurance of God's merciful nature and His readiness to heal those who repent and turn to Him in humility. Historical Setting Isaiah spoke during the reigns of Uzziah through Hezekiah (late 8th to early 7th century BC). Chapter 57 looks ahead to conditions just before the Babylonian exile: widespread idol worship, international intrigue, and social injustice. Archaeological digs at sites like Lachish and Kuntillet ‘Ajrud reveal pagan symbols mingled with Yahweh’s name, confirming Isaiah’s charge that the people blended faith in God with Canaanite practices. Religious Practices Condemned • Oak groves and “lush trees” (v. 5) echo Canaanite fertility rites (cf. Deuteronomy 12:2). • “Smooth stones of the valley” (v. 6) recall standing stones used as altars. • Child sacrifice to Molech (v. 9) parallels 2 Kings 16:3; 21:6, where kings of Judah burned their sons. • Sexual imagery—“uncovered your bed” (v. 8)—matches Hosea 4:12–14 and Ezekiel 16, where idolatry is pictured as spiritual adultery. Textual Notes • “Portion” (v. 6) and “lot” connect to Joshua’s division of the land (Joshua 18:10). Israel traded her God-given inheritance for rocks in a ravine. • “Build it up” (v. 14) echoes Isaiah 40:3–4 and 62:10; John the Baptist later applies this highway language to Christ’s coming (Luke 3:4-6). • The double “Peace, peace” (v. 19) anticipates Ephesians 2:17, where Jesus “came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.” Archaeological Windows into High Places • Tel Dan and Megiddo show elevated platforms with altars, matching Isaiah’s “high and lofty hill” (v. 7). • Infant burial jars at Carthage parallel Phoenician child sacrifices; Isaiah’s Judah imitated that horror in the Hinnom Valley (Jeremiah 7:31). • Incense stands and goddess figurines found in Judahite homes illustrate Isaiah’s claim that idols were set up “behind your doors and your doorposts” (v. 8). God’s View of the Righteous Who Die Early (vv. 1–2) • Psalm 116:15—“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:13—believers “do not grieve like the rest” because death ushers the faithful into peace. • The passage challenges the notion that long life always equals blessing; sometimes God rescues by taking His people home. Idolatry’s Toll on Society (vv. 3–10) • Idolatry leads to immorality (Romans 1:23–27). • It drains strength: “You grew weary… but you did not say, ‘I give up!’” (v. 10). Materialism and addiction follow the same cycle today. • It brings bondage to fear (v. 11) because false gods cannot grant security. God’s Gentle Call to the Contrite (vv. 14–19) • Psalm 34:18—“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted.” • Matthew 5:3–4—“Blessed are the poor in spirit… those who mourn.” • Acts 2:39—Peter announces the promise is “for all who are far off,” reflecting Isaiah’s “far and near.” “No Peace for the Wicked” (vv. 20–21) • Romans 3:17 cites Isaiah: “the path of peace they have not known.” • The sea image surfaces again in Revelation 21:1—“there was no longer any sea,” symbolically removing the chaos of sin. • True peace is relational, not circumstantial; it flows from reconciliation with God (Colossians 1:20). Practical Takeaways • Early death of a believer can be God’s mercy; value faithfulness over lifespan. • Idolatry is not just statues; anything prized above God becomes a high place. • God sees both public actions and “behind the door” secrets. • Humility and repentance invite God’s nearness; pride keeps Him at arm’s length. • Lasting peace is offered freely, yet remains unavailable to those who cling to wickedness. Echoes into the New Covenant • Jesus fulfills the “High and Exalted One” who also walks with the lowly (Philippians 2:6-8). • His healing of the contrite (v. 18) parallels Luke 4:18—“He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted.” • The gospel highway rings through the Great Commission: obstacles removed, nations invited to come home. Summary of the Chapter’s Message God mourns unnoticed righteous deaths, condemns blatant and hidden idolatry, strips false security, and then opens a clear road back to Himself. He dwells in glory yet stoops to the crushed in spirit. Peace is real for the humble; the wicked, however successful, will never find rest. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 37:37-38 Consider the blameless and observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace. But all sinners will be destroyed; there will be no future for the wicked. Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Teaching Points The Fate of the Righteous Isaiah 57:1-2 highlights the often-overlooked truth that the righteous are sometimes taken away to spare them from evil. The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; devout men are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Condemnation of Idolatry Verses 3-13 vividly describe the idolatrous practices of the people, emphasizing God's disdain for their unfaithfulness. But you—come here, you sons of a sorceress, you offspring of adulterers and prostitutes! God's Promise of Peace Despite the people's rebellion, God extends an invitation for peace and healing to those who repent. I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him and his mourners (Isaiah 57:18). Contrasting the Wicked and the Righteous The chapter concludes by contrasting the peace promised to the righteous with the unrest of the wicked. There is no peace, says my God, for the wicked (Isaiah 57:21). Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty Recognize that God may allow the righteous to be taken from this world to spare them from greater evil, and trust in His sovereign plan. Examine Your Heart Reflect on any idols in your life—anything that takes precedence over God—and commit to removing them. Seek God's Peace Embrace the peace that God offers through repentance and a relationship with Him, even amidst life's challenges. Live Righteously Strive to live a life that reflects God's holiness, knowing that true peace comes from Him alone. People 1. The Righteous (Verse 1) Described as those who perish and are taken away, yet no one understands that they are spared from evil. The Hebrew term used here is "צַדִּיק" (tzaddik), meaning just or righteous. 2. The Merciful (Verse 1) These are individuals who are taken away, entering into peace. The Hebrew word "חָסִיד" (chasid) is used, often translated as faithful or devout. 3. The Wicked (Verse 3) Referred to as "sons of a sorceress" and "offspring of adulterers and prostitutes," indicating those who engage in idolatry and immoral practices. The Hebrew term "רָשָׁע" (rasha) is used for wicked. 4. Mockers (Verse 4) Those who ridicule and mock, described as opening their mouths wide and sticking out their tongues. This group is characterized by their scornful behavior. 5. Idolaters (Verses 5-9) These are people who engage in idolatrous practices, sacrificing children and making offerings in high places. The text describes their actions in vivid detail, highlighting their spiritual unfaithfulness. 6. The King (Verse 9) Mentioned in the context of idolatrous practices, where people send envoys to a king with oil and perfumes, possibly indicating alliances or seeking favor through pagan rituals. 7. The Contrite and Lowly (Verse 15) Those who are humble and repentant, whom God promises to revive. The Hebrew word "דַּכָּא" (dakka) is used for contrite, meaning crushed or broken in spirit. 8. The Wicked (Verse 20) Again mentioned as those who are like the troubled sea, unable to find peace. This reiterates the earlier reference to the wicked, emphasizing their restless nature. 9. The Healer (Implied in Verse 18-19) While not directly named, God is implied as the healer who promises to restore and comfort those who mourn, creating peace for the far and near. Places 1. High and Lofty Places In Isaiah 57:7, the text refers to "On a high and lofty hill you have made your bed." This phrase symbolizes places of idolatrous worship, often associated with pagan rituals. The Hebrew word for "high" is "גָּבֹהַ" (gāḇōah), indicating elevation both physically and metaphorically, representing pride and rebellion against God. 2. Valleys Isaiah 57:5 mentions "the oaks and under every green tree, who sacrifice the children in the valleys." Valleys were often sites of idol worship and child sacrifice, particularly in the context of the worship of Molech. The Hebrew word "בַּנְּחָלִים" (bannəḥālîm) refers to these low-lying areas, which were hidden from public view, symbolizing secrecy and sin. 3. Smooth Stones of the Ravine In Isaiah 57:6, the text states, "Your portion is among the smooth stones of the ravine." These stones were used in pagan rituals and idol worship. The Hebrew term "חַלְקֵי נַחַל" (ḥalqê naḥal) refers to these smooth stones, which were often associated with fertility rites and false gods. 4. Mountain Isaiah 57:13 mentions, "But he who takes refuge in Me will inherit the land and possess My holy mountain." The "holy mountain" is a reference to Mount Zion, symbolizing God's presence and the place of true worship. The Hebrew word "הַר" (har) is used for mountain, indicating a place of elevation and spiritual significance. Events 1. The Righteous Perish The chapter begins by noting the death of the righteous and devout, highlighting that no one understands that they are taken away to be spared from evil. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of divine protection and the mystery of God's ways. (Isaiah 57:1-2) 2. Condemnation of Idolatry The text condemns the people for their idolatrous practices, describing their actions as spiritual adultery. The Hebrew term for "adultery" (נָאַף, na'aph) is used metaphorically to describe unfaithfulness to God. (Isaiah 57:3-10) 3. Rebuke for Trusting in False Gods The chapter rebukes the people for their misplaced trust in false gods and alliances, emphasizing the futility of such actions. The Hebrew root for "trust" (בָּטַח, batach) underscores the misplaced confidence in anything other than God. (Isaiah 57:11-13) 4. Promise of Restoration Despite the people's unfaithfulness, God promises to restore and heal those who are contrite and humble. The Hebrew word for "heal" (רָפָא, rapha) signifies God's power to restore both physically and spiritually. (Isaiah 57:14-19) 5. Peace for the Righteous The chapter concludes with a promise of peace for the righteous, contrasting with the lack of peace for the wicked. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. (Isaiah 57:20-21) Lessons from Isaiah 57 1. The Perils of Idolatry Isaiah 57 warns us about the dangers of idolatry, reminding us that placing anything above God leads to spiritual emptiness. The chapter vividly describes how the people turned to idols, forsaking their Creator. "You have made your bed on a high and lofty hill; there you went up to offer sacrifices" (Isaiah 57:7). This serves as a powerful reminder to keep our hearts focused on God, who alone deserves our worship and devotion. 2. The Peace of the Righteous The chapter opens with a comforting truth: "The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; devout men are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil" (Isaiah 57:1). This verse reassures us that God’s peace is with those who live righteously, even when the world seems indifferent. It’s a call to live a life that honors God, knowing that His peace surpasses all understanding. 3. The Call to Repentance Isaiah 57 emphasizes the importance of repentance. God is always ready to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him. "I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him and his mourners" (Isaiah 57:18). This is a beautiful reminder that no matter how far we stray, God’s grace is sufficient to bring us back into His loving arms. 4. The Futility of Wickedness The chapter paints a stark picture of the futility of wickedness. Those who pursue evil find themselves restless and without peace. "But the wicked are like the tossing sea, which cannot rest, whose waves cast up mire and mud" (Isaiah 57:20). This imagery serves as a warning that a life apart from God leads to turmoil and dissatisfaction. 5. The Promise of Healing God promises healing to those who are contrite and humble. "For this is what the high and exalted One says—He who lives forever, whose name is holy: 'I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite'" (Isaiah 57:15). This verse assures us that God is near to the brokenhearted and ready to restore those who seek Him earnestly. 6. The Assurance of God’s Presence Isaiah 57 reminds us that God is always with us, especially in our times of need. "I will not accuse them forever, nor will I always be angry, for then they would faint away because of me—the very people I have created" (Isaiah 57:16). This is a comforting promise that God’s presence is constant, and His patience is enduring. 7. The Contrast of Paths The chapter contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, urging us to choose wisely. "And it will be said: 'Build up, build up, prepare the road! Remove the obstacles out of the way of my people'" (Isaiah 57:14). This call to action encourages us to clear our lives of anything that hinders our walk with God, paving the way for His blessings. 8. The Reality of Divine Judgment Isaiah 57 does not shy away from the reality of divine judgment. God’s justice is sure, and He will not overlook sin. "You went to Molech with olive oil and increased your perfumes. You sent your ambassadors far away; you descended to the very realm of the dead!" (Isaiah 57:9). This serves as a sobering reminder that our actions have consequences, and we must live in a way that honors God. 9. The Invitation to Trust The chapter invites us to place our trust in God alone. "You were wearied by all your ways, but you would not say, 'It is hopeless.' You found renewal of your strength, and so you did not faint" (Isaiah 57:10). This verse encourages us to rely on God’s strength, knowing that He will sustain us through every trial. 10. The Gift of Peace Finally, Isaiah 57 concludes with a promise of peace for those who follow God. "Peace, peace, to those far and near," says the LORD. "And I will heal them" (Isaiah 57:19). This is a beautiful assurance that God’s peace is available to all who seek Him, bringing healing and restoration to our lives. Let this promise inspire you to pursue a deeper relationship with the One who offers true peace. Topics 1. The Righteous Perish (Isaiah 57:1-2) This section addresses the fate of the righteous, who perish and are taken away, often unnoticed by the world. The text suggests that their departure is a form of deliverance from evil. The Hebrew word for "perish" (אָבַד, 'avad) implies being lost or destroyed, highlighting the world's disregard for the righteous. 2. Idolatry and Unfaithfulness (Isaiah 57:3-10) Here, the focus shifts to the unfaithfulness and idolatry of the people, described as children of sorcery and offspring of adulterers. The passage uses vivid imagery to depict their spiritual infidelity, such as "burning with lust" and "sacrificing children." The Hebrew term for "idols" (גִּלּוּלִים, gillulim) underscores the contemptible nature of these false gods. 3. God's Judgment and Rebuke (Isaiah 57:11-13) This section highlights God's response to the people's idolatry and lack of fear. God questions their reliance on idols and promises that their idols will not save them. The Hebrew root for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) is significant, as it denotes reverence and awe, which the people have misplaced. 4. Promise of Restoration (Isaiah 57:14-19) Despite the people's unfaithfulness, God promises healing and restoration. The text speaks of preparing the way and removing obstacles, indicating a return to righteousness. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) is central, representing completeness and well-being that God will restore. 5. Condemnation of the Wicked (Isaiah 57:20-21) The chapter concludes with a stark contrast between the peace promised to the righteous and the unrest of the wicked. The wicked are likened to a troubled sea, unable to find peace. The Hebrew term for "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha) conveys a sense of moral corruption and guilt, emphasizing their separation from God's peace. Themes 1. The Righteous Perish and No One Takes It to Heart Isaiah 57:1 highlights the theme of the righteous perishing without anyone understanding or taking it to heart. The Hebrew word for "perish" (אָבַד, 'avad) implies being lost or destroyed, emphasizing the neglect and lack of awareness among the people regarding the fate of the righteous. 2. Peace for the Righteous In Isaiah 57:2, the theme of peace for the righteous is presented. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility, indicating that the righteous find rest and peace in death, away from the turmoil of the world. 3. Idolatry and Unfaithfulness Verses 3-10 address the theme of idolatry and unfaithfulness. The people are described as children of sorcery and offspring of adulterers, highlighting their spiritual infidelity. The Hebrew term for "adultery" (נָאַף, na'aph) is used metaphorically to describe their unfaithfulness to God. 4. God’s Indignation Against Idolatry Isaiah 57:11-13 speaks of God's indignation against idolatry. The theme here is God's response to the people's misplaced fear and trust in idols. The Hebrew word for "indignation" (קָצַף, qatsaph) conveys a sense of anger and displeasure. 5. Promise of Healing and Restoration In verses 14-19, the theme of healing and restoration is prominent. God promises to heal the contrite and humble. The Hebrew word for "heal" (רָפָא, rapha) signifies restoration and making whole, indicating God's desire to restore His people. 6. Peace for the Contrite and Humble Isaiah 57:15-19 emphasizes peace for the contrite and humble. The theme here is God's dwelling with those who are humble and contrite in spirit. The Hebrew word for "contrite" (דַּכָּא, dakka) means crushed or broken, highlighting the humility required for God's presence. 7. No Peace for the Wicked The chapter concludes with the theme of no peace for the wicked in Isaiah 57:20-21. The wicked are compared to a restless sea, and the Hebrew word for "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha) denotes those who are morally wrong or guilty, emphasizing the absence of peace for those who reject God. Prayer Points Pray for Understanding Ask God for wisdom to understand His ways and trust in His plans for the righteous. Repentance and Renewal Seek God's forgiveness for any idolatry in your life and ask for a renewed heart. Peace and Comfort Pray for God's peace to fill your heart and for comfort in times of trouble. Strength to Live Righteously Request strength and courage to live a life that honors God and reflects His holiness. As we reflect on Isaiah 57, may we be encouraged to pursue righteousness, trust in God's perfect plan, and find peace in His promises. Answering Tough Questions 1. Isaiah 57:1–2: How can the claim that righteous people are taken away to be spared from evil be reconciled with the historical suffering of the faithful throughout Israel’s history? 2. Isaiah 57:5: Is there credible archaeological evidence that child sacrifice was widespread among Israelites, or is this an exaggerated polemic? 3. Isaiah 57:6–7: When idols are condemned, do external sources confirm this degree of idolatry in Judah, or does the text conflict with known religious practices of the time? 4. Isaiah 57:9: Does the reference to courting foreign powers challenge God’s sovereignty, and is there any conflict with other biblical texts that describe reliance on allies? 5. Isaiah 57:15: How can God “dwell in a high and holy place” yet also be fully omnipresent, and does this passage contradict or align with similar descriptions elsewhere in Scripture? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of the death of the righteous as mentioned in verses 1-2? 2. How does Isaiah’s description of idolatry in verses 3-13 reflect the spiritual state of Israel? How can you relate this to today's context? 3. How does the Bible define the "righteous"? How can this understanding impact your daily life? 4. What do verses 14-15 say about God's character, especially regarding His relationships with humans? 5. How do verses 16-21 highlight God's gracious nature even towards the unfaithful? 6. How can we apply the teachings of humility and contrition found in this chapter to our present day living? 7. What are some modern forms of idolatry? How can we guard ourselves against them? 8. How does the promise of God's healing and comfort encourage you in your current circumstances? 9. Why is there "no peace for the wicked" as stated in verse 21? 10. What are the ways in which you can "prepare the way" (verse 14) for God in your life? 11. In what ways can we revive a humble spirit and contrite heart in our daily lives? 12. How does the theme of judgement in this chapter inform your understanding of God’s justice? 13. How does the theme of God's grace and mercy resonate with your personal experiences? 14. What steps can you take to ensure you are living a righteous life, in light of the teachings in this chapter? 15. How does the chapter influence your perspective on repentance and its importance in spiritual growth? 16. How can we better trust God in light of His promise to lead and comfort us, despite our failings? 17. How can this chapter’s message on God's readiness to forgive influence your interactions with others? 18. How does the dichotomy of the destinies of the wicked and the righteous in this chapter impact your understanding of life and afterlife? 19. Reflect on the present-day spiritual practices that might mirror the idolatry condemned in this chapter. How can you address them? 20. Based on this chapter, how would you describe the relationship God desires to have with us? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions