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Isaiah 8:9

Associate yourselves, O ye people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces.

Isaiah 8:9 · King James Version

Meaning

Isaiah 8:9 warns that nations who band together against God's will are destined for destruction. The verse urges people from all corners of the earth to listen and prepare themselves for inevitable defeat if they continue to resist God. The repetition of the phrase "gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces" emphasizes the certainty and severity of the consequences that await those who choose to rebel against the divine order. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the power and authority of God over all nations and peoples, highlighting the importance of submitting to His will rather than trying to resist or go against it. It ultimately conveys a message of humility, obedience, and reverence towards God as the ultimate authority.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the prophet warns the nations to "associate themselves" and prepare for battle if they wish, but regardless of their efforts, they will only face defeat and destruction. The repetition of the phrase "gird yourselves, and you shall be broken in pieces" emphasizes the inevitability of their downfall if they choose to set themselves against God. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of judgment and punishment for those who go against the will of God. It serves as a reminder that no human effort or alliance can stand against the power and sovereignty of God. Through this verse, believers are encouraged to trust in God's justice and righteousness, knowing that ultimately, all who oppose Him will be brought low. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of rebellion against God and the importance of aligning ourselves with His purposes.

Isaiah 8:9 in other translations

American Standard Version

Make an uproar, O ye peoples, and be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far countries: gird yourselves, and be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and be broken in pieces.

World English Bible

Make an uproar, you peoples, and be broken in pieces! Listen, all you from far countries: dress for battle, and be shattered! Dress for battle, and be shattered!

Douay-Rheims

Gather yourselves together, O ye people, and be overcome, and give ear, all ye lands afar off: strengthen yourselves, and be overcome, gird yourselves, and be overcome.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Gather together on heapes, O ye people, and ye shalbe broken in pieces, and hearken all ye of farre countreys: gird your selues, and you shalbe broken in pieces: gird your selues, and you shalbe broken in pieces.