Isaiah 2:20
In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats;
Isaiah 2:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah is a powerful warning against the worship of material possessions and false gods. The imagery of casting idols of silver and gold to the moles and bats symbolizes the futility and emptiness of putting one's trust in objects that are ultimately worthless. The prophet is proclaiming that there will come a time when people will realize the true value of their material possessions and abandon them in favor of worshipping the one true God. By using such vivid imagery, the verse emphasizes the contrast between the fleeting nature of earthly treasures and the everlasting significance of spiritual devotion. It serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual growth and connection with God over the pursuit of material wealth and false idols, as only true fulfillment and salvation can be found in Him.
Theological Overview
The verse "In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats," can be interpreted as a reflection of the judgment that will come upon those who put their trust in material possessions and false gods. The act of casting away idols made of silver and gold signifies a turning away from worldly attachments to embrace true worship of God alone. The mention of moles and bats, animals that live in darkness and are considered unclean in Jewish culture, further emphasizes the futility and uncleanliness of worshipping idols. This passage can be seen as a call for repentance and a reminder of the importance of placing our faith in God rather than in material possessions or false gods. Through theological interpretation and word studies, we can understand the significance of this verse in the context of idolatry and the consequences of turning away from God.
Isaiah 2:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
In that day men shall cast away their idols of silver, and their idols of gold, which have been made for them to worship, to the moles and to the bats;
World English Bible
In that day, men shall cast away their idols of silver, and their idols of gold, which have been made for themselves to worship, to the moles and to the bats;
Douay-Rheims
In that day a man shall cast away his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which he had made for himself to adore, moles and bats.
Geneva Bible (1599)
At that day shall man cast away his siluer idoles, and his golden idoles (which they had made themselues to worship them) to the mowles and to the backes,