Isaiah 59:14
And judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.
Isaiah 59:14 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah paints a powerful picture of a society in chaos and moral decay. The imagery used here conveys a sense of lawlessness and corruption, where judgment and justice have been perverted and are nowhere to be found. The phrase "truth is fallen in the street" signifies a complete disregard for honesty and integrity, with deceit and lies running rampant. The mention of equity being unable to enter further emphasizes the skewed and unfair nature of the society being described. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of straying from the path of righteousness and emphasizes the importance of upholding truth, justice, and fairness in all aspects of life.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "And judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter." signifies a time of great moral decay and corruption. The prophet Isaiah is painting a vivid picture of a society where righteousness and fairness have been abandoned. This verse highlights the breakdown of the justice system and the prevalence of dishonesty and injustice in the streets. The word "judgment" refers to the act of making decisions based on truth and righteousness, which has been perverted and twisted. "Truth is fallen in the street" suggests that honesty and integrity have been trampled upon and disregarded. The phrase "equity cannot enter" exemplifies the inability for fairness and justice to prevail in such a society. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of turning away from God's principles of righteousness and justice, and the consequences that may follow when truth is disregarded.
Isaiah 59:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
And justice is turned away backward, and righteousness standeth afar off; for truth is fallen in the street, and uprightness cannot enter.
World English Bible
Justice is turned away backward, and righteousness stands afar off; for truth is fallen in the street, and uprightness can’t enter.
Douay-Rheims
And judgment is turned away backward, and justice hath stood far off: because truth hath fallen down in the street, and equity could not come in.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore iudgement is turned backewarde, and iustice standeth farre off: for trueth is fallen in the streete, and equitie cannot enter.