Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings.

ISAIAH 51:7KJV
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Isaiah 51:7 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 51:7 mean?

Isaiah 51:7 calls out to people who understand what is right and have God’s teaching in their hearts, telling them not to be afraid or discouraged by insults or harsh words from others. The verse reassures those who follow God’s ways that the negative opinions or mockery of people should not shake their confidence.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is speaking to the faithful among Israel during a time of trouble and opposition. He addresses those who “know righteousness” and have God’s “law” within them, encouraging them to stand firm despite criticism or hostility from others. The focus is on trusting God’s approval over human disapproval, especially when facing opposition for doing what is right.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 51:7

  • “Hearken” (שָׁמַע, shamaʿ) means to listen attentively or obey. Isaiah is not just asking for casual attention but urging a deep, responsive listening.
  • “Righteousness” (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) refers to what is just, right, or in line with God’s standards. Isaiah is singling out people who truly understand and live by what is right.
  • “Law” (תּוֹרָה, torah) means instruction or teaching, not just legal rules. Isaiah is speaking to those who have internalized God’s guidance, not just outwardly following rules.
  • “Reproach” (חֶרְפָּה, cherpah) and “revilings” (גִּדּוּף, giddūph) both refer to insults or shaming words. The verse uses strong terms for public shaming or verbal attacks, highlighting the real social pressure the faithful faced.

Why Isaiah 51:7 matters

  • Isaiah 51:7 clarifies that true righteousness is not just about outward actions but about having God’s teaching deeply rooted in one’s heart.
  • The verse addresses the real fear of social rejection or ridicule that comes with standing for what is right, showing that this was a concern even for ancient believers.
  • This verse connects to the larger theme in Isaiah 51, where God comforts His people and calls them to trust in Him rather than be swayed by the opinions or threats of others.

Where else these words appear

“revilings” Hebrew H1421 · used in 3 verses

  • Isaiah 43:28 Therefore I have profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and have given Jacob to the curse, and Israel to reproaches.
  • Zephaniah 2:8 I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified themselves against their border.

“afraid” Hebrew H2865 · used in 48 verses

  • Deuteronomy 1:21 Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.
  • Job 31:34 Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me, that I kept silence, and went not out of the door?
  • Jeremiah 17:18 Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.

“reproach” Hebrew H2781 · used in 72 verses

  • Genesis 30:23 And she conceived, and bare a son; and said, God hath taken away my reproach:
  • Psalms 71:13 Let them be confounded and consumed that are adversaries to my soul; let them be covered with reproach and dishonour that seek my hurt.
  • Jeremiah 42:18 For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As mine anger and my fury hath been poured forth upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem; so shall my fury be poured forth upon you, when ye shall enter into Egypt: and ye shall be an execration, and an astonishment, and a curse, and a reproach; and ye shall see this place no more.

“righteousness” Hebrew H6664 · used in 109 verses

  • Leviticus 19:15 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.
  • Psalms 52:3 Thou lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah.
  • Ecclesiastes 5:8 If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.