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Isaiah 41:16

Thou shalt fan them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them: and thou shalt rejoice in the LORD, and shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel.

Isaiah 41:16 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Isaiah describes a powerful image of divine justice and retribution. In this verse, the Lord is depicted as fanning his enemies like chaff, allowing the wind to carry them away and the whirlwind to scatter them. This imagery symbolizes the swift and thorough destruction of those who oppose the will of God. The verse then goes on to emphasize the believer's response to this judgment - rejoicing in the Lord and glorifying the Holy One of Israel. This serves as a reminder to trust in God's justice and to find joy in His victory over evil. It is a call to faithfulness and devotion, knowing that ultimately, the Lord will overcome all adversaries. This verse encourages believers to take comfort in the righteousness of God and to find strength in their faith as they face challenges and opposition.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the concept of separation and judgment is vividly portrayed through the imagery of fanning, wind, and whirlwind. The act of fanning was commonly used to separate wheat from chaff, symbolizing the process of discerning and separating the righteous from the wicked. The wind and whirlwind represent God's power and sovereignty, as He scatters the wicked like dust before Him. The emphasis on rejoicing in the Lord and glorying in the Holy One of Israel highlights the ultimate victory of God's people over their enemies, leading to a sense of joy and praise for His deliverance. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the idea of divine justice and the assurance that God will ultimately triumph over evil, bringing peace and salvation to those who trust in Him.

Isaiah 41:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

Thou shalt winnow them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them; and thou shalt rejoice in Jehovah, thou shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel.

World English Bible

You will winnow them, and the wind will carry them away, and the whirlwind will scatter them. You will rejoice in Yahweh. You will glory in the Holy One of Israel.

Douay-Rheims

Thou shalt fan them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them: and thou shalt rejoice in the Lord, in the Holy One of Israel thou shalt be joyful.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Thou shalt fanne them, and the winde shall carie them away, and the whirlewinde shall scatter them: and thou shalt reioyce in the Lord, and shalt glory in the holy one of Israel.