Isaiah 50:2
Wherefore, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there none to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it cannot redeem? or have I no power to deliver? behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stinketh, because there is no water, and dieth for thirst.
Isaiah 50:2 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah reflects God's frustration at the lack of response and acknowledgment from his people. The rhetorical questions posed express God's dismay at the indifference of those he called upon. God questions whether his power to redeem and deliver has weakened, highlighting his omnipotence and willingness to save his followers. The reference to drying up the sea and making the rivers a wilderness emphasizes God's ability to perform miracles and display his might. The imagery of fish dying for thirst further illustrates the consequences of disobedience and neglecting God's call. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the need for humans to respond to his calls with faith and reverence.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, the speaker is questioning why there was no one present when they arrived, and no one to respond when they called out. The speaker openly wonders if their hand is too feeble to save, or if they lack the power to deliver. This verse showcases a reflection on the speaker's abilities and powers, prompting readers to contemplate the omnipotence and sovereignty of God. The mention of drying up the sea and turning rivers into wastelands highlights the speaker's authority and control over nature and creation. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's might and ability to bring about massive changes and transformations. It is a call to acknowledge the strength and dominion of God, emphasizing that even nature itself obeys His commands. Through this theological interpretation, readers are encouraged to reflect on the limitless power and greatness of God, underscoring the importance of trust and faith in His ability to redeem and deliver.
Isaiah 50:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
Wherefore, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there none to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it cannot redeem? or have I no power to deliver? Behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stink, because there is no water, and die for thirst.
World English Bible
Why, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there no one to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it can’t redeem? or have I no power to deliver? Behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stink, because there is no water, and die for thirst.
Douay-Rheims
Because I came, and there was not a man: I called, and there was none that would hear. Is my hand shortened and become little, that I cannot redeem? or is there no strength in me to deliver? Behold at my rebuke I will make the sea a desert, I will turn the rivers into dry land: the fishes shall rot for want of water, and shall die for thirst.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore came I, and there was no man? I called, and none answered: is mine hand so shortened, that it cannot helpe? or haue I no power to deliuer? Beholde, at my rebuke I drie vp the Sea: I make the floods desert: their fish rotteth for want of water, and dieth for thirst.