Isaiah 58:12
And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
Isaiah 58:12 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in," speaks to the idea of rebuilding and restoring what has been lost or destroyed. It symbolizes the renewal and revitalization of communities and societies, as well as the preservation of traditions and legacies. The imagery of building old waste places and raising up the foundations of many generations implies the continuation of heritage and the passing down of values and beliefs to future descendants. By being called "The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in," individuals are tasked with the responsibility of bridging gaps and restoring harmony in relationships and communities. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history, rebuilding what has been broken, and creating a path for future generations to thrive.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the phrase "build the old waste places" is a call to restore and renew areas that have been neglected or destroyed. It speaks to the idea of bringing life back to areas that have fallen into disrepair, both physically and spiritually. The reference to "raising up the foundations of many generations" highlights the importance of preserving the wisdom and traditions of the past while also moving forward in faith. The imagery of being called "The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in" emphasizes the role of the believer in bridging gaps and creating a way for others to follow in righteousness. Overall, this verse speaks to the transformative power of faith and the responsibility of believers to participate in the restoration of God's creation.
Isaiah 58:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places; thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
World English Bible
Those who shall be of you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
Douay-Rheims
And the places that have been desolate for ages shall be built in thee: thou shalt raise up the foundation of generation and generation: and thou shalt be called the repairer of the fences, turning the paths into rest.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And they shalbe of thee, that shall builde the olde waste places: thou shalt rayse vp the foundations for many generations, and thou shalt be called the repairer of the breach and the restorer of the pathes to dwell in.