For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a consumption, even determined, in the midst of all the land.

ISAIAH 10:23KJV
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Isaiah 10:23 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 10:23 mean?

Isaiah 10:23 says that the Lord GOD of hosts will bring about a complete and decisive destruction, one that He has firmly decided, right in the middle of the whole land. This verse emphasizes that God’s judgment is certain and will be carried out fully as He has planned.

In this part of Isaiah, the prophet is speaking to the people of Israel about a coming judgment because of their disobedience. The phrase “consumption, even determined” points to a destruction that is not random or accidental, but something God has firmly resolved to do. The focus is on God’s authority and the certainty of His actions in dealing with the nation.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 10:23

  • “consumption” (כָּלָה, kalah): This word often means a complete end or destruction. Here, it stresses that what is coming is not partial or temporary, but a thorough conclusion to something.
  • “determined” (נֶחֱרָצָה, necheratzah): This word means something that has been decided or decreed. It highlights that the coming event is not by chance, but is a fixed decision by God.
  • “midst” (קֶרֶב, qerev): This word means the middle or center. The verse is saying the destruction will happen right within the land, not just at the edges or borders.
  • “land” (אֶרֶץ, eretz): Usually refers to the land of Israel, making it clear that this message is about God’s dealings with His own people.

Why Isaiah 10:23 matters

  • Isaiah 10:23 clears up the idea that God’s judgment is haphazard; it is shown here as something carefully decided and fully carried out.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that even in judgment, God is in control and His actions are purposeful, not impulsive.
  • This verse helps the reader see that God’s dealings with Israel are both just and certain, reinforcing the seriousness of ignoring His warnings.

Where else these words appear

“determined” Hebrew H2782 · used in 12 verses

  • Exodus 11:7 But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.
  • 2 Samuel 5:24 And let it be, when thou hearest the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt bestir thyself: for then shall the LORD go out before thee, to smite the host of the Philistines.
  • Isaiah 28:22 Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.

“consumption” Hebrew H3617 · used in 20 verses

  • Genesis 18:21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.
  • Jeremiah 4:27 For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I not make a full end.
  • Ezekiel 13:13 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even rend it with a stormy wind in my fury; and there shall be an overflowing shower in mine anger, and great hailstones in my fury to consume it.