We have heard of the pride of Moab; he is very proud: even of his haughtiness, and his pride, and his wrath: but his lies shall not be so.

ISAIAH 16:6KJV
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Isaiah 16:6 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 16:6 mean?

Isaiah 16:6 says that the people have heard about how proud Moab is—describing Moab as extremely arrogant, full of self-importance, and anger—but that Moab’s boasts and lies will not come true. The verse highlights Moab’s reputation for pride and warns that their claims and anger will not protect them or change their fate.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is speaking about the nation of Moab, a neighbor and frequent rival of Israel. Isaiah lists several negative qualities—pride, haughtiness, anger, and lies—to show that Moab’s self-confidence is well-known but ultimately empty. This is part of a larger prophecy where Isaiah warns Moab that their arrogance will not save them from coming judgment.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 16:6

  • The word for "pride" is גָּאוֹן (ga'on), which often means arrogance or a sense of self-importance. Isaiah repeats this word to emphasize just how deeply rooted Moab’s pride is.
  • "Very proud" uses גֵּאֶה (ge'eh), which carries the idea of being lifted up or exalted, stressing that Moab’s pride is not just present but extreme.
  • "Haughtiness" is גָּאוָה (ga'avah), another word for arrogance, showing that Moab’s attitude is not just prideful but also scornful toward others.
  • "Wrath" is עֶבְרָה (evrah), which can mean overflowing anger or rage, suggesting that Moab’s pride is also expressed in hostility.
  • "Lies" is בַּד (bad), which can mean empty boasts or false claims, pointing out that Moab’s proud words are not grounded in truth or reality.

Why Isaiah 16:6 matters

  • Isaiah 16:6 clarifies that Moab’s downfall is not just about military defeat but is rooted in their character—especially their pride and arrogance.
  • The verse connects to the broader message of Isaiah 15–16, where the prophet warns that nations who trust in themselves instead of God will ultimately be disappointed.
  • By repeating words for pride and arrogance, Isaiah emphasizes that this is not a minor flaw but a defining trait of Moab, helping readers understand why judgment is coming.