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Isaiah 44:20

He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?

Isaiah 44:20 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Isaiah illustrates the consequences of living in deception and falsehood. The imagery of feeding on ashes highlights the futility and emptiness of relying on things that provide no sustenance or true nourishment. The deceived heart mentioned in the verse has led the individual astray, preventing them from seeking redemption or acknowledging the falsehoods they hold onto. The inability to deliver one's soul signifies being trapped in a cycle of self-deception, where the truth is obscured by delusion. The question posed at the end of the verse challenges the individual to confront the lies they are holding onto, urging them to reevaluate their beliefs and motivations. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-deception and the importance of seeking truth and redemption in order to truly deliver one's soul from falsehood.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Isaiah, the prophet is condemning those who worship idols, comparing their actions to a person who feeds on ashes. The image of feeding on ashes emphasizes the futility and emptiness of idol worship. The deceived heart mentioned in the verse refers to the spiritual blindness that leads people away from the truth of God. The inability to deliver one's soul and the presence of a lie in one's right hand symbolize the consequences of following false gods and beliefs. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the dangers of deception and the importance of staying true to God's word. This passage serves as a cautionary tale against straying from the path of righteousness and the need for spiritual discernment in order to avoid being led astray.

Isaiah 44:20 in other translations

American Standard Version

He feedeth on ashes; a deceived heart hath turned him aside; and he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?

World English Bible

He feeds on ashes. A deceived heart has turned him aside; and he can’t deliver his soul, nor say, “Isn’t there a lie in my right hand?”

Douay-Rheims

Part thereof is ashes: his foolish heart adoreth it, and he will not save his soul, nor say: Perhaps there is a lie in my right hand.

Geneva Bible (1599)

He feedeth of ashes: a seduced heart hath deceiued him, that he cannot deliuer his soule, nor say, Is there not a lye in my right hand?