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Isaiah 66:24

And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.

Isaiah 66:24 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse, found in the book of Isaiah, describes a scene of destruction and punishment for those who have transgressed against God. The imagery of looking upon the carcasses of those who have sinned paints a vivid picture of the consequences of disobedience. The reference to their worm not dying and their fire not being quenched suggests a state of perpetual suffering and punishment, emphasizing the severity of their actions. The idea of being an abhorring unto all flesh further emphasizes the disgrace and shame that accompanies their punishment. Overall, this verse serves as a warning of the consequences that await those who choose to go against God's will and serves as a reminder of the importance of living a righteous and obedient life.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the concept of eternal punishment for those who have transgressed against God. The imagery of the 'worm not dying' and the 'fire not being quenched' portrays the idea of everlasting torment. The term 'worm' could refer to maggots that consume dead bodies, emphasizing the decay and destruction that rebels against God will face for eternity. The unquenchable fire symbolizes the eternal nature of the punishment that awaits the unrepentant sinners. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God, highlighting the seriousness of living a life that is contrary to His will.

Isaiah 66:24 in other translations

American Standard Version

And they shall go forth, and look upon the dead bodies of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.

World English Bible

“They shall go out, and look on the dead bodies of the men who have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they will be loathsome to all mankind.”

Douay-Rheims

And they shall go out, and see the carcasses of the men that have transgressed against me: their worm shall not die, and their fire shall not be quenched: and they shall be a loathsome sight to all flesh.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And they shall goe forth, and looke vpon the carkases of the men that haue transgressed against me: for their worme shall not dye, neither shall their fire be quenched, and they shalbe an abhorring vnto all flesh.