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Isaiah 51:1

Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.

Isaiah 51:1 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Isaiah is a call to those who are seeking righteousness and who are looking to follow the Lord. The imagery of being hewn from a rock and dug from a pit serves as a reminder of our humble origins and the need to always remember where we come from. By looking back to the rock and the pit, we are reminded of our dependence on God for our very existence and our need to remain grounded in Him. Just as a rock provides strength and stability, and a pit represents a place of darkness and struggle, we are encouraged to reflect on the journey that has brought us to where we are today. This verse serves as a reminder to remain connected to our roots and to always seek the Lord in all that we do.

Theological Overview

This verse from Isaiah 51:1 serves as a call to those who pursue righteousness and seek the Lord, reminding them to reflect on their origins and foundation. The word 'hearken' emphasizes the importance of listening and paying attention to the message being conveyed. The term 'rock' symbolizes strength, stability, and reliability, pointing to the solid and unchanging nature of the Lord as the source of our being. The image of being 'hewn' from a rock and 'dug' from a pit conveys the idea of being formed and shaped by the hands of God. By looking back at where we came from, we are encouraged to remember God's faithfulness in our past, as well as to acknowledge our dependence on Him for our existence and identity. This verse inspires believers to maintain a deep connection with God, recognizing Him as the ultimate provider and sustainer of life.

Isaiah 51:1 in other translations

American Standard Version

Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek Jehovah: look unto the rock whence ye were hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye were digged.

World English Bible

“Listen to me, you who follow after righteousness, you who seek Yahweh: look to the rock you were cut from, and to the hold of the pit you were dug from.

Douay-Rheims

Give ear to me, you that follow that which is just, and you that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence you are hewn, and to the hole of the pit from which you are dug out.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Heare me, ye that follow after righteousnes, and ye that seeke the Lord: looke vnto the rocke, whence ye are hewen, and to the hole of the pit, whence ye are digged.