Isaiah 37:29
Because thy rage against me, and thy tumult, is come up into mine ears, therefore will I put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.
Isaiah 37:29 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah speaks of God's response to the rage and tumult of his enemies. The imagery of putting a hook in the nose and a bridle in the lips was a common practice in ancient times for controlling unruly animals. In this context, it symbolizes God's power and authority over those who oppose him. By turning his enemies back along the same path they came, God demonstrates his ability to control the outcomes of their actions. This verse serves as a reminder that God is in control of all situations, and those who rebel against him will ultimately be brought back under his authority. It is a powerful message of both judgment and mercy, showing that God's justice will always prevail in the end.
Theological Overview
In this passage, the image of putting a hook in someone's nose and a bridle in their lips is a metaphorical representation of God's power and control over those who oppose Him. It symbolizes God's ability to lead and guide individuals back onto the right path when they have strayed from His will. The imagery of a hook in the nose and bridle in the lips is reminiscent of how animals are controlled and directed by their masters, highlighting God's ultimate authority over all creation. The language used here emphasizes God's response to the rage and tumult of those who rebel against Him, showing that even in the face of opposition, God remains sovereign and in control. This verse serves as a reminder of God's justice and power, as well as His ability to bring about redemption and restoration in the lives of those who turn back to Him.
Isaiah 37:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
Because of thy raging against me, and because thine arrogancy is come up into mine ears, therefore will I put my hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.
World English Bible
Because of your raging against me, and because your arrogance has come up into my ears, therefore will I put my hook in your nose and my bridle in your lips, and I will turn you back by the way by which you came.
Douay-Rheims
When thou wast mad against me, thy pride came up to my ears: therefore I will put a ring in thy nose, and a bit between thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou camest.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Because thou ragest against me, and thy tumult is come vnto mine eares, therefore will I put mine hooke in thy nostrels, and my bridle in thy lips, and wil bring thee backe againe the same way thou camest.