Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

ISAIAH 28:16KJV
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Isaiah 28:16 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 28:16 mean?

Isaiah 28:16 describes God declaring that He is placing a strong, reliable foundation stone in Zion—a stone that has been tested, is precious, and serves as a trustworthy cornerstone. The verse promises that whoever trusts in this foundation will not be shaken or act in panic.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Judah on behalf of God during a time of political uncertainty and spiritual decline. The image of a "foundation stone" in Zion (Jerusalem) points to something solid and dependable that God Himself establishes, in contrast to the shaky alliances and false securities the people were relying on. The verse reassures listeners that faith in what God provides brings stability and calm, even when everything else feels uncertain.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 28:16

  • "stone" (אֶבֶן, ʾeven): This word is repeated, emphasizing the importance of the foundation God is laying. In ancient building, the cornerstone was essential for the stability of the whole structure.
  • "tried" (בֹּחֵן, boḥen): This means "tested" or "proven," suggesting that the foundation God provides has already been shown to be reliable and trustworthy.
  • "precious" (יָקָר, yaqar): This word means valuable or highly esteemed, highlighting the worth and significance of what God is providing.
  • "believeth" (אמן, ʾaman): This carries the sense of steady trust or firm confidence, not just intellectual agreement but a settled reliance.
  • "haste" (חוּשׁ, ḥush): This word can mean to hurry in fear or panic. The verse promises that those who trust in God’s foundation will not be driven to rash or fearful actions.

Why Isaiah 28:16 matters

  • Isaiah 28:16 clarifies that God, not human schemes or alliances, provides the only truly secure foundation for His people.
  • The verse uses construction imagery that would have been familiar and meaningful to its original audience, making the promise of stability and trustworthiness vivid and concrete.
  • This verse stands out in the wider chapter, which warns about false confidence and coming judgment, by offering a positive promise of hope and security for those who trust in what God establishes.

Where else these words appear

“foundation” Hebrew H4143 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Chronicles 8:16 Now all the work of Solomon was prepared unto the day of the foundation of the house of the LORD, and until it was finished. So the house of the LORD was perfected.

“haste” Hebrew H2363 · used in 20 verses

  • Numbers 32:17 But we ourselves will go ready armed before the children of Israel, until we have brought them unto their place: and our little ones shall dwell in the fenced cities because of the inhabitants of the land.
  • Psalms 22:19 But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me.
  • Psalms 71:12 O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.

“corner” Hebrew H6438 · used in 28 verses

  • Exodus 27:2 And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.
  • Nehemiah 3:24 After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.
  • Isaiah 19:13 The princes of Zoan are become fools, the princes of Noph are deceived; they have also seduced Egypt, even they that are the stay of the tribes thereof.

“precious” Hebrew H3368 · used in 36 verses

  • 1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
  • 2 Chronicles 3:6 And he garnished the house with precious stones for beauty: and the gold was gold of Parvaim.
  • Proverbs 3:15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.