Isaiah 5:14
Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it.
Isaiah 5:14 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it." talks about the concept of hell expanding and making room for those who are destined to enter it. It signifies a warning about the consequences of sin and the ultimate fate of those who choose to follow a path of wickedness. The mention of "glory," "multitude," "pomp," and "rejoiceth" emphasizes the variety of people who will be condemned to hell, regardless of their worldly accomplishments or pleasures. The vivid imagery of hell opening its mouth without measure conveys the terrifying and eternal nature of damnation for those who do not repent and turn away from sin. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of living a righteous and virtuous life in order to avoid the fate of descending into hell.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Isaiah demonstrates the consequences of sin and disobedience towards God. The imagery of hell enlarging itself and opening its mouth without measure symbolizes the vastness and inevitability of judgment for those who indulge in sin. The verse suggests that no matter how much one may possess in terms of wealth, power, or influence, they will ultimately face the consequences of their actions by descending into hell. This serves as a warning to those who prioritize worldly success and pleasures over obedience to God's commandments. The word 'hell' in this context refers to the place of punishment for the wicked in the afterlife, highlighting the severity of the consequences for unrepentant sinners. The emphasis on the multitude, glory, and pomp of those who will descend into hell underscores the idea that no one is exempt from facing judgment for their actions, regardless of their status or achievements in this world.
Isaiah 5:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
Therefore Sheol hath enlarged its desire, and opened its mouth without measure; and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth among them, descend [into it] . [
World English Bible
Therefore Sheol has enlarged its desire, and opened its mouth without measure; and their glory, their multitude, their pomp, and he who rejoices among them, descend into it.
Douay-Rheims
Therefore hath hell enlarged her soul, and opened her mouth without any bounds, and their strong ones, and their people, and their high and glorious ones shall go down into it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore hell hath inlarged it selfe, and hath opened his mouth, without measure, and their glorie, and their multitude, and their pompe, and hee that reioyceth among them, shall descend into it.