Isaiah 19:7
The paper reeds by the brooks, by the mouth of the brooks, and every thing sown by the brooks, shall wither, be driven away, and be no more.
Isaiah 19:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah talks about the fragility and impermanence of human existence in comparison to the eternal nature of God. The image of paper reeds by the brooks symbolizes the temporary nature of life on Earth. Just as the paper reeds wither and are driven away by the currents of the brooks, so too will everything sown by the brooks eventually come to an end. This imagery serves as a reminder to readers that earthly possessions and achievements are fleeting and will not last forever. Instead, the verse encourages us to focus on the spiritual rather than the material aspects of life, as it is only through a relationship with God that we can find true and lasting fulfillment. By emphasizing the transient nature of worldly things, this verse urges us to seek deeper meaning and purpose in our lives that transcends the temporary pleasures and successes of this world.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "The paper reeds by the brooks, by the mouth of the brooks, and every thing sown by the brooks, shall wither, be driven away, and be no more," underscores the transient and impermanent nature of earthly things. The symbol of the paper reeds by the brooks represents the fragility of human achievements and possessions. In this passage, the prophet Isaiah is warning of the fleeting nature of material wealth and prosperity. The imagery of withering and being driven away serves as a reminder of the ultimate futility of placing one's trust in worldly possessions. This verse can be seen as a call to focus on spiritual riches and eternal values, rather than placing importance on temporary and fleeting treasures of the earth. The word study of 'paper reeds' in this context refers to the fragile nature of man-made structures and possessions, which are easily washed away by the changing tides of life.
Isaiah 19:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
The meadows by the Nile, by the brink of the Nile, and all the sown fields of the Nile, shall become dry, be driven away, and be no more.
World English Bible
The meadows by the Nile, by the brink of the Nile, and all the sown fields of the Nile, will become dry, be driven away, and be no more.
Douay-Rheims
The channel of the river shall be laid bare from its fountain, and every thing sown by the water shall be dried up, it shall wither away, and shall be no more.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The grasse in the riuer, and at the head of the riuers, and all that groweth by the riuer, shall wither, and be driuen away, and be no more.