Isaiah 40:2
Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her sins.
Isaiah 40:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah is a message of comfort and hope to the people of Jerusalem. The prophet Isaiah is instructing the people to speak kindly and gently to Jerusalem, letting her know that her time of suffering and warfare is over. The use of the term "warfare" symbolizes the struggles and challenges that Jerusalem has faced as a result of her sins. However, the verse also reveals that her iniquity has been pardoned by the Lord. The mention of receiving double for all her sins could be interpreted as Jerusalem having paid for her sins in full, and now it is time for her to receive forgiveness and restoration from God. This verse conveys the message that no matter how deep our sins may be, God's mercy and forgiveness are always available to those who seek it with a repentant heart. It serves as a reminder of God's grace and compassion towards His people, offering them a fresh start and a renewed relationship with Him.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of Isaiah 40:2 is that it speaks to the hope and restoration that God offers to his people. The imagery used in this verse emphasizes comfort and forgiveness, conveying a message of redemption and reconciliation. The phrase "that her warfare is accomplished" can be seen as a declaration of the end of suffering and turmoil, promising peace and rest to the people of Jerusalem. The mention of her iniquity being pardoned highlights God's mercy and grace, reminding the readers of the forgiveness that is available through God's intervention. The reference to receiving double for all her sins may suggest that God has fully dealt with the consequences of Jerusalem's transgressions, showing that His justice has been satisfied. Overall, this verse conveys a message of hope, restoration, and the abundant mercy of God towards His people.
Isaiah 40:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem; and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she hath received of Jehovah's hand double for all her sins.
World English Bible
“Speak comfortably to Jerusalem; and call out to her that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received of Yahweh’s hand double for all her sins.”
Douay-Rheims
Speak ye to the heart of Jerusalem, and call to her: for her evil is come to an end, her iniquity is forgiven: she hath received of the hand of the Lord double for all her sins.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Speake comfortably to Ierusalem, and crye vnto her, that her warrefare is accomplished, that her iniquitie is pardoned: for she hath receiued of the Lords hand double for all her sinnes.