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Isaiah 50:4

The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.

Isaiah 50:4 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse talks about the speaker being gifted by God with the ability to speak wisdom and comfort to those who are weary and in need. It emphasizes the importance of using words effectively and appropriately, especially when someone is going through a difficult time. The phrase "he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned" suggests that the speaker is constantly seeking knowledge and understanding from God, much like a student learning from a teacher. By being open to God's teachings and guidance each day, the speaker is able to offer support and guidance to others when they need it most. This verse serves as a reminder to always be attentive and receptive to words of wisdom, and to use that wisdom to bring comfort and encouragement to others.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse is that the prophet Isaiah is emphasizing the importance of being well-versed in the word of God in order to minister to others effectively. The phrase "the tongue of the learned" could refer to having a deep understanding and wisdom given by God through study and revelation. The ability to speak a word in season to those who are weary signifies the importance of offering comfort and encouragement at the right time, showing compassion and empathy towards those who are struggling. The mention of being wakened morning by morning to hear as the learned suggests a constant state of listening and learning from God, being open to His guidance and instruction. This verse highlights the role of the prophet as an instrument of God's wisdom and compassion, equipped to minister to others with love and understanding.

Isaiah 50:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

The Lord Jehovah hath given me the tongue of them that are taught, that I may know how to sustain with words him that is weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as they that are taught.

World English Bible

The Lord Yahweh has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with words him who is weary: he wakens morning by morning, he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught.

Douay-Rheims

The Lord hath given me a learned tongue, that I should know how to uphold by word him that is weary: he wakeneth in the morning, in the morning he wakeneth my ear, that I may hear him as a master.

Geneva Bible (1599)

The Lord God hath giuen me a tongue of the learned, that I shoulde knowe to minister a woord in time to him that is weary: he will raise me vp in the morning: in the morning hee will waken mine eare to heare, as the learned.