Isaiah 17:6

Yet gleanings will remain, like an olive tree that has been beaten--two or three berries atop the tree, four or five on its fruitful branches," declares the LORD, the God of Israel.

Study Bible

Yet gleanings will remain
The word "gleanings" refers to the remnants left after the main harvest has been collected. In the Hebrew context, the term is "עֹלֵלוֹת" (olelot), which signifies the small, leftover portions that are often overlooked. This imagery is deeply rooted in the agricultural practices of ancient Israel, where gleaning was a provision for the poor and the foreigner (Leviticus 19:9-10). Spiritually, this phrase suggests that even in times of judgment or desolation, God’s mercy ensures that a remnant will survive. It is a promise of hope and continuity, emphasizing God's faithfulness to preserve His people.

like an olive tree that has been beaten
The olive tree is a significant symbol in the Bible, representing peace, prosperity, and endurance. The process of beating an olive tree was a common method to harvest olives, ensuring that the ripe fruit would fall while the unripe remained. The Hebrew word for "beaten" is "חָבַט" (chavat), which conveys a sense of forceful action. This imagery illustrates the thoroughness of God's judgment, yet it also highlights the resilience of what remains. The olive tree, despite being beaten, still stands, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel.

two or three berries atop the tree
This phrase paints a picture of scarcity and survival. The "two or three berries" represent the small, seemingly insignificant remnant that persists after a time of trial. In the Hebrew culture, numbers often carry symbolic meaning. The numbers two and three can signify witness and completeness, respectively. Thus, this remnant, though small, serves as a witness to God's ongoing work and the completeness of His plan, even when it seems diminished.

four or five on its fruitful branches
The mention of "four or five" further emphasizes the idea of a small, yet significant, remnant. In biblical numerology, the number four often represents universality or completeness, while five can symbolize grace. The "fruitful branches" suggest that even in a time of judgment, there is potential for future growth and blessing. This imagery reassures believers that God's grace is sufficient, and His purposes will ultimately bear fruit, even from the smallest beginnings.

declares the LORD, the God of Israel
This phrase underscores the authority and sovereignty of God. The use of "declares" (Hebrew: "נְאֻם" - ne'um) indicates a solemn pronouncement, affirming that these words are not merely human observations but divine revelation. Referring to God as "the LORD, the God of Israel" emphasizes His covenant relationship with His people. It is a reminder that the God who speaks is the same God who has been faithful throughout Israel's history, and His declarations are both trustworthy and binding. This assurance provides comfort and hope, reinforcing the belief that God's promises will be fulfilled.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book. He prophesied during the reigns of several kings of Judah and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2. Israel
The northern kingdom, often referred to in prophecies concerning judgment due to their idolatry and disobedience to God.

3. Olive Tree
A symbol of prosperity and blessing in ancient Israel. The imagery of an olive tree being beaten reflects a time of judgment and loss, yet with a remnant remaining.

4. Gleanings
The remnants left after harvest, which were often left for the poor and needy. This symbolizes the small remnant of people who will remain faithful or be spared.

5. The LORD, the God of Israel
The covenant God of Israel, who declares both judgment and the promise of a remnant.

Teaching Points

The Faithful Remnant
Despite widespread judgment, God always preserves a remnant. This encourages believers to remain faithful, knowing that God sees and preserves those who are committed to Him.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment and Mercy
The passage highlights God's control over both judgment and mercy. Believers can trust in God's perfect justice and His ability to preserve His people.

Hope Amidst Judgment
Even in times of great difficulty or judgment, there is hope. The imagery of the olive tree suggests that God’s purposes will continue through those who remain faithful.

The Importance of Spiritual Fruitfulness
Just as the olive tree is valued for its fruit, believers are called to bear spiritual fruit. This passage challenges us to examine our lives for evidence of spiritual growth and fruitfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the olive tree in Isaiah 17:6 help us understand God's message to Israel?

2. In what ways can we see the concept of a remnant in the New Testament, and how does it apply to the church today?

3. How can the principle of gleanings in Leviticus 19:9-10 inform our understanding of God's provision and care for the marginalized?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure we are part of the faithful remnant in our own spiritual lives?

5. How does the theme of hope amidst judgment in Isaiah 17:6 encourage you in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:9-10
This passage discusses the law of gleaning, where farmers were instructed to leave the edges of their fields unharvested for the poor and the foreigner. This connects to the idea of a remnant being left in Isaiah 17:6.

Romans 11:5
Paul speaks of a remnant chosen by grace, which echoes the theme of a faithful remnant in Isaiah.

Micah 7:1
Micah laments the lack of godly people, using similar imagery of gleaning, which parallels the situation in Isaiah 17:6.