Isaiah 26:21
For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.
Isaiah 26:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah prophesies about the impending judgment that will befall the inhabitants of the earth for their sins. It signifies the Lord coming out of His place to punish those who have committed iniquities. The earth, in its entirety, will reveal the bloodshed and atrocities that have occurred, refusing to cover up the violence any longer. This verse serves as a warning to those who have strayed from the path of righteousness, emphasizing the importance of repentance and redemption before facing the consequences of their actions. The imagery of the earth disclosing her blood and not concealing the slain highlights the accountability and justice that will be administered by the Lord. It reminds believers to live in accordance with God's will and to seek forgiveness for their sins, knowing that divine retribution awaits those who continue to transgress.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the idea of divine punishment for the sins of humanity. The Lord is portrayed as coming out of his place to bring judgment upon the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. This highlights the concept of divine justice and the consequences of disobedience towards God. The phrase "the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain" symbolizes the idea that the earth will no longer conceal the violence and bloodshed that has occurred, but instead, it will reveal the true extent of the sins committed. This verse serves as a warning about the importance of living a righteous life and the repercussions of turning away from God. It reminds believers to seek forgiveness and repentance for their sins to avoid facing the wrath of the Lord.
Isaiah 26:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
For, behold, Jehovah cometh forth out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.
World English Bible
For, behold, Yahweh comes out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity. The earth also will disclose her blood, and will no longer cover her slain.
Douay-Rheims
For behold the Lord will come out of his place, to visit the iniquity of the inhabitant of the earth against him: and the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall cover her slain no more.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For lo, the Lord commeth out of his place, to visite the iniquitie of the inhabitants of the earth vpon them: and the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more hide her slaine.