For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

ISAIAH 57:15KJV
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Isaiah 57:15 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 57:15 mean?

Isaiah 57:15 says that God, who is high and holy and lives forever, chooses to dwell not only in heaven but also with people who are humble and sorry for their wrongs. God promises to bring new life and encouragement to those who are lowly and contrite in spirit.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is speaking God’s words to the people of Israel, reminding them of God’s greatness and holiness. At the same time, Isaiah highlights that God is close to those who are humble and brokenhearted, not just distant and exalted. The verse reassures listeners that God cares deeply for those who feel small or crushed by life.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 57:15

  • "High" (רָם, rām) and "lofty One" (נִשָּׂא, nissā’): These words emphasize God’s exalted position, showing that God is above all creation.
  • "Inhabiteth eternity" (שֹׁכֵן עַד, shōkhēn ‘ad): This phrase means God lives forever, outside the limits of time, stressing God’s eternal nature.
  • "Contrite" (דַּכָּא, dakkā’): This word means crushed or broken, describing someone who feels deeply sorry or humbled.
  • "Humble" (שָׁפֵל, shāphēl): This word refers to someone who is lowly or modest, not proud or self-important.
  • "Revive" (חָיָה, chāyāh): This verb means to give life or restore, showing God’s desire to renew the spirits of those who are downcast.

Why Isaiah 57:15 matters

  • Isaiah 57:15 clears up the idea that God is only distant and unreachable; it shows God is also close to the humble and brokenhearted.
  • The verse highlights that God values humility and a contrite spirit over outward status or pride, which was a countercultural message in Isaiah’s time.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage by contrasting God’s care for the humble with warnings to those who are proud or rebellious, showing God’s character as both holy and compassionate.