Isaiah 32 7

Isaiah 32:7 kjv

The instruments also of the churl are evil: he deviseth wicked devices to destroy the poor with lying words, even when the needy speaketh right.

Isaiah 32:7 nkjv

Also the schemes of the schemer are evil; He devises wicked plans To destroy the poor with lying words, Even when the needy speaks justice.

Isaiah 32:7 niv

Scoundrels use wicked methods, they make up evil schemes to destroy the poor with lies, even when the plea of the needy is just.

Isaiah 32:7 esv

As for the scoundrel ? his devices are evil; he plans wicked schemes to ruin the poor with lying words, even when the plea of the needy is right.

Isaiah 32:7 nlt

The smooth tricks of scoundrels are evil.
They plot crooked schemes.
They lie to convict the poor,
even when the cause of the poor is just.

Isaiah 32 verses

Isaiah 32 7 Meaning

The verse describes a person who devises wicked schemes. These schemes are characterized as evil and lead to harmful actions, resulting in the destruction and suffering of the poor and needy. This illustrates a profound moral failing where intentional malice causes direct damage to the vulnerable.

Isaiah 32 7 Context

Isaiah chapter 32 vividly portrays the contrast between the wicked ruler who oppresses his people and the righteous ruler who will bring justice and peace. This verse specifically targets a manipulative and deceitful individual who thrives on injustice and causes significant harm to the vulnerable. It serves as a strong condemnation of corrupt leadership and highlights the inevitable downfall of those who exploit and oppress others, particularly the poor and needy. The broader context of Isaiah often speaks of a coming Messianic age of righteousness and restoration, making this verse a depiction of the character antithetical to that ideal.

Isaiah 32 7 Word Analysis

• מְזִמָּה (mezimmah): This Hebrew word translates to "scheme," "plan," or "counsel." It implies intentionality and often carries a negative connotation, referring to cunning or wicked planning. It’s not just a casual thought, but a calculated design.

• יִפְעַל (yif'al): "he acts" or "he does." This indicates active engagement in putting the scheme into practice.

• רָעוֹת (ra'ot): This is the plural of "ra'," meaning "evil," "bad," or "wicked." It refers to deeds or things that are morally wrong and harmful.

• לְהִתְהוֹלֵל (le'hiththolel): "to act foolishly," "to rage," or "to speak iniquity." When linked with schemes, it implies acting out in a way that is both reckless and damaging.

• לְהַשְׁחִית (lehashḥit): "to corrupt," "to destroy," or "to ruin." This emphasizes the destructive outcome of the wicked schemes.

• נִצּוֹת (nizzot): "consumed," "destroyed," or "perish." This conveys a sense of utter devastation.

• דַּלִּים (dallim): "poor," "weak," or "needy." Refers to those who lack resources and are vulnerable to exploitation.

• בְּדִבְרֵי (bid'varei): "with words," "by speech," or "through talk." This highlights that the destruction is carried out through deceitful or manipulative communication.

• כְּזָב (kezav): "lie," "falsehood," or "deceit." Indicates that the words used are untruthful and intended to mislead.

• דָּל (dal): Again, "poor" or "needy."

• מִשְׁפָּט (mishpat): "justice," "judgment," or "right." This is what is being perverted or withheld from the needy.

• וְעָשִׁיר (ve'ashir): "and rich." The contrast with the poor is significant.

• יַחְלִיק (yaḥliq): "will smooth," "will flatter," or "will slide." It suggests subtle manipulation and cunning to gain an advantage, or perhaps a deceptive ease in their destructive actions.

Group of Words Analysis:

• "מְזִמָּה רָעָה" (mezimmah ra'ah): "wicked scheme." This pairing strongly emphasizes the deliberate, evil intent behind the plans. It is not an accidental wrong, but a planned one.

• "לְהַשְׁחִית דַּלִּים בְּדִבְרֵי כְּזָב" (lehashḥit dallim bid'varei kezav): "to destroy the poor with deceitful words." This phrase encapsulates the method of destruction: the poor are ruined not by brute force, but by lies and manipulation, often concerning their rights or provisions.

• "וּבְמִלּוֹת כִּי יִקַּח עָנִי מִשְׁפָּט" (uve'millot ki yiqqach ani mishpat): This clause, "and with words the needy takes judgment," or more accurately "and with words the needy is deprived of justice," highlights how legal or social justice is twisted and stolen through deceptive talk and dishonest representations. The needy is unable to secure what is rightfully theirs due to the deceitful pronouncements.

Isaiah 32 7 Bonus Section

The verse underscores the profound impact of language in causing harm. The Hebrew word "דִּבְרֵי" (divrei), meaning "words" or "things," specifically points to spoken or written communication as the medium of destruction for the poor. This echoes the New Testament emphasis on the tongue's power to build or destroy (James 3:1-12). The deceitful "schemer" is often found in positions of influence or authority, where their words can have widespread destructive consequences for those with less power to counter them. The eventual failure of such schemes aligns with the biblical principle that unrighteousness is ultimately temporary and self-destructive.

Isaiah 32 7 Commentary

This verse is a potent indictment of corrupt and deceitful individuals who prey on the vulnerable. It's not just about plotting, but actively using deceitful language and manipulation to strip the poor and needy of their rights and dignity. The "schemer" isn't merely an unlucky plotter; their downfall is guaranteed because their actions are inherently evil and opposed to divine justice. Their words, meant to ensnare and deceive, ultimately become the very tools of their own destruction. True prosperity and stability are linked to righteousness and justice, not to wicked machinations.