Isaiah 65:15
And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:
Isaiah 65:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah in the Bible foretells a message of punishment and divine retribution for those who oppose God's chosen people. The verse serves as a warning to those who go against the Lord's will and betray his servants. By leaving their names as a curse, it signifies the depths of their wrongdoing and the consequences they will face. The Lord GOD is depicted as a powerful and just entity who will slay those who defy him, and choose to call his servants by a different, more favored name. This change in name symbolizes a new identity and status given to those who remain faithful to God, while those who rebel will suffer consequences and be left to be remembered as a curse. Overall, this verse highlights the theme of divine justice and the importance of remaining loyal to God's chosen people.
Theological Overview
Looking at the theological interpretation of Isaiah 65:15, we see that this verse speaks of a transformation and a new beginning for God's people. The idea of leaving one's name for a curse implies a complete departure from the old ways and an embracing of a new identity. The Lord GOD's slaying of them can be understood metaphorically as a purifying process, where the old self is put to death in order for a new self to emerge. Calling his servants by another name signifies a fresh start and a new purpose for those who have been chosen by God. This verse highlights the theme of redemption and renewal in the Bible, where God promises to give his people a new name and a new destiny. Through this process of transformation, God's chosen ones are set apart and called to live according to His will.
Isaiah 65:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen; and the Lord Jehovah will slay thee; and he will call his servants by another name:
World English Bible
You shall leave your name for a curse to my chosen; and the Lord Yahweh will kill you; and he will call his servants by another name:
Douay-Rheims
And you shall leave your name for an execration to my elect: and the Lord God shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And ye shall leaue your name as a curse vnto my chosen: for the Lord God shall slay you and call his seruants by another name.