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Isaiah 45:16

They shall be ashamed, and also confounded, all of them: they shall go to confusion together that are makers of idols.

Isaiah 45:16 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse conveys a powerful message about the consequences of idolatry. Those who make idols will ultimately be ashamed and confused. The use of the word "confounded" highlights the deep sense of embarrassment and disorientation that those who worship idols will experience. By putting their faith in man-made objects rather than in the one true God, idolaters are ultimately setting themselves up for disappointment and humiliation. The verse emphasizes that those who create idols will not only face individual shame, but will also be grouped together in their confusion. This serves as a warning against the dangers of idol worship and the importance of putting one's trust in God alone. Overall, the verse serves as a reminder of the folly of worshiping anything other than the Creator and the ultimate consequences that await those who do so.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is warning against the worship of idols. The term "makers of idols" refers to those who create and worship false gods, which goes against the commandment to have no other gods before the one true God. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the folly of placing trust and devotion in man-made idols rather than in the Almighty. The consequence of such actions is shame and confusion, as those who look to idols for guidance will ultimately be disappointed and led astray.

Furthermore, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of putting our trust in God alone. Idols are portrayed as objects of human creation that have no power or ability to save. By contrast, the Lord is portrayed as the one true source of strength and salvation. The word "confounded" in this context refers to the shame and embarrassment that will come upon idolaters when they realize the futility of their worship. Ultimately, this verse serves as a call to turn away from false gods and place our trust in the one who is truly worthy of our worship.

Isaiah 45:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

They shall be put to shame, yea, confounded, all of them; they shall go into confusion together that are makers of idols.

World English Bible

They will be disappointed, yes, confounded, all of them. Those who are makers of idols will go into confusion together.

Douay-Rheims

They are all confounded and ashamed: the forgers of errors are gone together into confusion.

Geneva Bible (1599)

All they shalbe ashamed and also confounded: they shall goe to confusion together, that are the makers of images.