Isaiah 29:20 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 29:20 mean?

Isaiah 29:20 says that those who are cruel, those who mock, and those who look for ways to do wrong will be removed or destroyed. The verse promises that people who cause trouble and look for evil will not last; their power and influence will come to an end.

Isaiah is speaking to the people of Jerusalem, warning them about the consequences of injustice and pride. The verse is part of a larger prophecy where God, through Isaiah, promises to judge those who oppress others and to bring justice. This is meant to reassure those who suffer under such people that their time of hardship will not last forever.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 29:20

• "one" (עָרִיץ, ʿārîṣ): This word often means a ruthless or terrifying person, not just someone who is "terrible" in a general sense. It highlights the idea of someone who uses power to harm others.
• "scorner" (לֵץ, lēṣ): This word refers to someone who mocks or ridicules others, especially those who reject what is good or right. It adds a sense of arrogance or contempt.
• "watch" (שָׁקַד, šāqad): Here, it means to lie in wait or to be on the lookout, not just being alert but actively seeking opportunities to do wrong.
• "iniquity" (אָוֶן, ʾāwen): This word covers not just sin in general but also trouble, wickedness, or harm. It points to people looking for ways to cause real damage.

Why Isaiah 29:20 matters

• Isaiah 29:20 clarifies that God’s judgment targets not just obvious evildoers but also those who scheme and look for ways to harm others, even if they seem clever or powerful for a time.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that God’s justice is thorough; no wrongdoer will escape, whether they are openly violent or secretly plotting.
• This verse reassures people who feel oppressed or mocked that those who misuse power or ridicule others will not have the final say.