Isaiah 24:7

The new wine dries up, the vine withers. All the merrymakers now groan.

Study Bible

The new wine
The phrase "new wine" in Isaiah 24:7 refers to freshly pressed grape juice, which is often symbolic of joy and celebration in the Bible. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "תִּירוֹשׁ" (tirosh), which can denote both the literal new wine and the abundance of blessings. Historically, wine was a staple in ancient Near Eastern culture, representing prosperity and divine favor. The absence or spoiling of new wine, as suggested in this context, indicates a withdrawal of joy and blessing, aligning with the theme of judgment in Isaiah 24.

mourns
The Hebrew word for "mourns" is "אָבַל" (aval), which conveys a deep sense of lamentation and sorrow. This mourning is not just a personal grief but a communal lament, reflecting the broader context of divine judgment upon the land. In the prophetic literature, mourning often accompanies the realization of sin and the consequences that follow. The imagery here suggests that the land itself, along with its produce, is in a state of lament due to the people's disobedience and the resulting divine judgment.

the vine
The vine is a recurring symbol in Scripture, often representing Israel or God's people (e.g., Psalm 80:8, Isaiah 5:1-7). In this context, the vine's mourning signifies the loss of fruitfulness and blessing. The vine's condition reflects the spiritual state of the people; as they turn away from God, their source of life and sustenance, they experience barrenness and desolation. This imagery serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of forsaking the covenant relationship with God.

languishes
The term "languishes" is translated from the Hebrew "אָמַל" (amal), meaning to wither or waste away. This word paints a picture of decline and decay, emphasizing the severity of the judgment. The land and its produce are not merely unproductive; they are in a state of deterioration. This reflects the broader theme of Isaiah 24, where the earth itself suffers under the weight of human sin and divine retribution, highlighting the interconnectedness of creation and humanity's spiritual state.

all the merry-hearted
The phrase "all the merry-hearted" refers to those who are typically joyful and carefree. In the Hebrew, "שָׂמֵחַ" (sameach) denotes a state of happiness and rejoicing. The context here is one of stark contrast; those who were once filled with joy and celebration are now brought low. This serves as a sobering reminder that earthly joy, apart from God, is fleeting and can be swiftly turned to sorrow in the face of divine judgment. The transformation of the merry-hearted into mourners underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment described in this chapter.

sigh
The word "sigh" is derived from the Hebrew "אָנַח" (anach), which conveys a deep, audible expression of grief or distress. This sighing is a response to the overwhelming sense of loss and desolation that pervades the land. It is a visceral reaction to the judgment that has befallen the people, capturing the depth of their despair. In the broader biblical narrative, sighing often accompanies repentance and a turning back to God, suggesting that even in judgment, there is an opportunity for redemption and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Judah and Jerusalem
The primary audience of Isaiah's prophecies, representing God's chosen people who are warned of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

3. The Earth
In Isaiah 24, the earth is depicted as undergoing a period of judgment, symbolizing the broader scope of God's justice beyond just Israel.

4. Merrymakers
Represents those who indulge in worldly pleasures and festivities, now facing the consequences of divine judgment.

5. Vine and New Wine
Symbolic of prosperity and joy, which are now drying up and withering as a result of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Joy
Earthly pleasures and prosperity are temporary and can be swiftly taken away. True joy is found in a relationship with God.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The withering of the vine and drying up of new wine serve as a metaphor for the spiritual barrenness that results from turning away from God.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God's judgment is comprehensive and affects all aspects of life, reminding us of His ultimate authority over creation.

Call to Repentance
The groaning of merrymakers is a call to repentance, urging us to turn back to God before it's too late.

Hope Beyond Judgment
While judgment is severe, it is not the end. Isaiah's prophecies also point to restoration and hope for those who return to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the vine and new wine in Isaiah 24:7 relate to the spiritual condition of the people?

2. In what ways can we see the fleeting nature of earthly joy in our own lives, and how can we seek lasting joy in God?

3. How does the theme of judgment in Isaiah 24:7 connect with the broader message of the book of Isaiah?

4. What are some modern-day "merrymakings" that might distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we address them?

5. How can the message of hope and restoration found later in Isaiah encourage us in times of personal or communal judgment?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:10-12
Similar imagery of the vine and fields withering, emphasizing the theme of judgment and the loss of joy and abundance.

Amos 5:16-17
The mourning and lamentation in the streets, reflecting the groaning of merrymakers as a result of God's judgment.

Revelation 18:22-23
The cessation of music and joy in Babylon, paralleling the end of merrymaking in Isaiah 24:7, highlighting the finality of divine judgment.