Isaiah 56:3
Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree.
Isaiah 56:3 · King James Version
Meaning
Interpreting this verse involves understanding the inclusivity and acceptance promoted by the LORD in the Old Testament. The verse addresses two specific groups of people who might feel marginalized or excluded from the community of believers: the son of the stranger (an outsider) and the eunuch. By stating that these individuals should not feel separated or barren, the passage conveys the message that all who join themselves to the LORD are welcomed and valued members of the community of believers. The idea is that no one should feel alienated from the people of God based on their background or physical condition. Instead, they are encouraged to see themselves as integral parts of the community, with a meaningful place in the family of believers. This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and inclusion within the faith community, highlighting the LORD's desire for all to feel accepted and connected in their worship and service.
Theological Overview
On a theological level, this passage from Isaiah 56:3 addresses the inclusion of foreigners and eunuchs within the people of God. The phrase "son of the stranger" indicates a foreigner who decides to worship the Lord. The word "joined" conveys the idea of being closely attached or united with God. The concern expressed in this verse is that these individuals might feel like outsiders or marginalized within the community of believers. The mention of the eunuch, who is often seen as an outcast due to his inability to have children, reinforces the theme of inclusion. The imagery of a "dry tree" signifies being barren or unproductive. The verse serves as an encouragement for these individuals to not feel disconnected or separate from God's people; instead, they are reminded that they are an integral part of the community and should not let their circumstances define their relationship with God.
Isaiah 56:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
Neither let the foreigner, that hath joined himself to Jehovah, speak, saying, Jehovah will surely separate me from his people; neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree.
World English Bible
Neither let the foreigner, who has joined himself to Yahweh, speak, saying, “Yahweh will surely separate me from his people”; neither let the eunuch say, “Behold, I am a dry tree.”
Douay-Rheims
And let not the son of the stranger, that adhereth to the Lord, speak, saying: The Lord will divide and separate me from his people. And let not the eunuch say: Behold I am a dry tree.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And let not the sonne of the stranger, which is ioyned to the Lord, speake and say, The Lord hath surely separate me from his people: neither let the Eunuch say, Beholde, I am a drye tree.