Isaiah 42:22
But this is a people robbed and spoiled; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore.
Isaiah 42:22 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah paints a picture of a people who have been victimized and oppressed by others. It describes them as being robbed, spoiled, trapped in holes, and hidden in prison houses. The imagery used here conveys a sense of helplessness and despair, as these individuals are portrayed as being surrounded by danger and unable to escape. The mention of being a prey highlights their vulnerability and the fact that they are constantly being taken advantage of by others. The phrase "none delivereth" emphasizes the fact that there is no one coming to their aid or rescuing them from their distress. The verse concludes by stating that they are for a spoil, yet no one is willing to speak up and demand restoration for them. Overall, this passage serves as a reminder of the injustices that can occur in society and the importance of advocating for those who are marginalized and mistreated.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah describes a people who are oppressed and suffering. The people are depicted as being robbed, spoiled, trapped in holes, hidden in prison houses, and preyed upon with no one to deliver them. The language used evokes a sense of helplessness and despair among the people. The word "spoiled" can be interpreted as meaning plundered or despoiled, indicating that the people have been stripped of their belongings and dignity. The word "prey" signifies that they are being hunted and taken advantage of, while the lack of anyone coming to their aid emphasizes their isolation and vulnerability. The overall message conveyed is one of a community in dire need of rescue and restoration, as they suffer under the weight of their oppressors.
Isaiah 42:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
But this is a people robbed and plundered; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison-houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore.
World English Bible
But this is a robbed and plundered people. All of them are snared in holes, and they are hidden in prisons. They have become captives, and no one delivers; and a plunder, and no one says, ‘Restore them!’
Douay-Rheims
But this is a people that is robbed and wasted: they are all the snare of young men, and they are hid in the houses of prisons: they are made a prey, and there is none to deliver them: a spoil, and there is none that saith: Restore.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But this people is robbed and spoiled, and shalbe all snared in dungeons, and they shalbe hid in prison houses: they shall be for a pray, and none shall deliuer: a spoile, and none shall say, Restore.