Isaiah 17:8

They will not look to the altars they have fashioned with their hands or to the Asherahs and incense altars they have made with their fingers.

Study Bible

They will not look
The phrase "They will not look" signifies a turning away or a deliberate choice to ignore or abandon something previously held in regard. In the Hebrew context, the verb used here implies a conscious decision to avert one's gaze or attention. This reflects a significant shift in priorities or beliefs, often seen in the context of repentance or a return to faithfulness. Historically, this can be seen as a call to the Israelites to turn away from idolatry and return to the worship of Yahweh.

to the altars
Altars in ancient Israel were places of sacrifice and worship, often constructed to honor deities. The Hebrew word for altar, "mizbeach," is derived from a root meaning "to slaughter," indicating its primary function in sacrificial rites. The mention of altars here underscores the people's previous reliance on man-made structures for spiritual fulfillment, which God is calling them to abandon.

they have made with their hands
This phrase emphasizes the human origin of these altars, contrasting them with the divine nature of God. The act of creating altars "with their hands" suggests a reliance on human effort and ingenuity rather than divine provision. In a broader biblical context, this reflects the futility of idolatry, as human-made objects cannot compare to the living God.

and they will have no regard
To "have no regard" indicates a complete disregard or dismissal. In the Hebrew, this phrase conveys a sense of rejection or disinterest. This is a powerful statement of transformation, where the people will no longer value or consider the idols they once revered. It speaks to a profound change of heart and mind, aligning with the biblical theme of repentance.

for the Asherah poles
Asherah poles were wooden symbols associated with the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often erected near altars. These poles represented fertility and were central to pagan worship practices. The rejection of Asherah poles signifies a renunciation of foreign gods and a return to monotheistic worship. Archaeological findings have confirmed the widespread presence of such poles, highlighting the challenge Israel faced in maintaining pure worship.

and the work of their fingers
This phrase reiterates the human origin of the idols and altars, emphasizing their crafted nature. The "work of their fingers" suggests meticulous effort and personal investment in creating these objects of worship. Biblically, this highlights the contrast between the Creator and the created, urging the people to recognize the superiority of God over man-made idols. The imagery of fingers crafting idols serves as a reminder of the futility and limitations of human efforts in spiritual matters.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The northern kingdom, often criticized by prophets for idolatry and turning away from God.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom, also warned by prophets, though it had periods of reform.

3. Asherah Poles
Wooden symbols associated with the worship of the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often set up beside altars.

4. Altars
Structures built for offering sacrifices, which in this context, were made for idols rather than the worship of Yahweh.

5. Prophet Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, who conveyed God's messages to Israel and Judah, warning them of judgment and calling them to repentance.

Teaching Points

Idolatry's Futility
Idolatry is ultimately futile because it involves worshiping what is created rather than the Creator. This passage reminds us that man-made objects cannot provide salvation or true guidance.

Call to Repentance
The verse calls for a turning away from false worship and a return to God. It is a reminder that repentance involves not just turning away from sin but also turning towards God.

God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores God's sovereignty and the need for His people to rely on Him alone. It challenges us to examine our lives for anything that might take God's place.

Cultural Idols
In today's context, idols may not be physical objects but can be anything that takes precedence over God in our lives, such as money, power, or status.

Faithfulness in Worship
True worship involves a heart fully devoted to God, free from the distractions and deceptions of idolatry.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "altars" or "idols" that people might be tempted to rely on instead of God?

2. How does the call to repentance in Isaiah 17:8 relate to the New Testament teachings on repentance and faith?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains focused on God and not on man-made traditions or objects?

4. How can the example of King Hezekiah's reforms inspire us to remove "idols" from our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you relied on something other than God for security or guidance. How did that experience shape your understanding of idolatry and faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, emphasizing that God's people should not make or worship idols.

2 Kings 18:4
King Hezekiah's reforms, where he removed high places and broke the Asherah poles, demonstrating a return to true worship.

Jeremiah 2:27-28
A rebuke of Israel for turning to idols, highlighting the futility of relying on man-made gods.

Hosea 14:3
A call to repentance, where Israel acknowledges that idols cannot save them.

1 Corinthians 10:14
An exhortation to flee from idolatry, relevant for Christians in maintaining faithfulness to God.