Isaiah 26:18
We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.
Isaiah 26:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from Isaiah Chapter 26, Verse 18 reflects the deep sense of despair and frustration felt by the Israelites at their inability to bring about any significant change or deliverance in the world. The metaphor of being in labor and giving birth to wind symbolizes their efforts going unrewarded and their hopes ultimately leading to disappointment. Despite all their struggles and pain, they feel as though they have not achieved anything of substance, and that their actions have not made a difference in the world. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and disappointments that people may face in their efforts to bring about positive change, and the need to persist in spite of setbacks and obstacles.
Theological Overview
The verse from Isaiah 26:18 uses vivid imagery to convey a sense of despair and futility. The metaphor of being with child and in pain, only to bring forth wind, paints a picture of intense labor and effort resulting in nothing but emptiness. This image is used to describe a situation where despite the effort put in, there is no tangible outcome or deliverance. The verse highlights a sense of helplessness and ineffectiveness in the face of challenging circumstances. The reference to the inhabitants of the world not falling further emphasizes the lack of impact or success in the actions taken. The theological interpretation of this verse could be seen as a reminder of the limitations of human efforts and the need for divine intervention for true deliverance and salvation. It serves as a caution against relying solely on human strength and abilities, urging a reliance on God's power and providence for ultimate success and redemption. Through this verse, readers are encouraged to seek divine help and trust in God's plan for deliverance rather than relying on their own efforts alone.
Isaiah 26:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.
World English Bible
We have been with child. We have been in pain. We gave birth, it seems, only to wind. We have not worked any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.
Douay-Rheims
We have conceived, and been as it were in labour, and have brought forth wind: we have not wrought salvation on the earth, therefore the inhabitants of the earth have not fallen.
Geneva Bible (1599)
We haue coceiued, we haue borne in paine, as though we should haue brought forth winde: there was no helpe in the earth, neither did the inhabitants of the world fall.