Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
ISAIAH 55:7KJVWhat does Isaiah 55:7 mean?
Isaiah 55:7 calls on those who do wrong to abandon their harmful actions and thoughts, and to turn back to God, who promises to show great mercy and forgive generously. The verse assures that no matter how far someone has strayed, God is ready to welcome them back with compassion and full pardon.
The prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Israel, urging them to repent and return to the LORD after a period of unfaithfulness. The verse highlights both the seriousness of turning away from God and the remarkable willingness of God to forgive anyone who sincerely comes back, emphasizing God’s mercy over judgment.
The Hebrew behind Isaiah 55:7
- "Wicked" (רָשָׁע, rāshāʿ, H7563) refers to someone who acts in ways that are morally wrong or harmful to others, not just someone who makes mistakes.
- "Forsake" (עָזַב, ʿāzav, H5800) means to completely abandon or leave behind, stressing the need for a decisive break from past wrongs.
- "Return" (שׁוּב, shuv, H7725) carries the idea of turning back or coming home, not just feeling sorry but making a real change in direction.
- "Abundantly pardon" (יַרְבֶּה לִסְלוֹחַ, yarbeh lisloach, H7235 + H5545) suggests that God’s forgiveness is not limited or grudging, but overflowing and generous.
Why Isaiah 55:7 matters
- Isaiah 55:7 makes clear that forgiveness is available to everyone, not just those who have lived mostly good lives, but even to the openly “wicked” and “unrighteous.”
- The verse emphasizes that true repentance involves both actions and thoughts, showing that God cares about inner motives as much as outward behavior.
- This verse connects to the wider chapter’s invitation to seek God while He may be found, highlighting the urgency and openness of God’s call to return.