Isaiah 1:2

Berean Standard Bible
Listen, O heavens, and give ear, O earth, for the LORD has spoken: “I have raised children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against Me.
 
King James Bible
Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.
 
NET Bible
Listen, O heavens, pay attention, O earth! For the LORD speaks: "I raised children, I brought them up, but they have rebelled against me!
 
Hebrew Text:

שִׁמְעוּ שָׁמַיִם וְהַאֲזִינִי אֶרֶץ, כִּי יְהוָה דִּבֵּר: בָּנִים גִּדַּלְתִּי וְרוֹמַמְתִּי, וְהֵם פָּשְׁעוּ בִי.

 
Transliteration:
Shim'u shamayim v'ha'azini eretz, ki Adonai diber: banim giddalti v'romamti, v'hem pash'u bi.
 
***************
 
Study Bible:
 
Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth
This opening summons is a powerful call to attention, invoking both the heavens and the earth as witnesses. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שִׁמְעוּ" (shim'u), which is an imperative form, demanding immediate attention. This reflects the gravity of the message that follows. The heavens and the earth are often called upon in Scripture as witnesses to God's covenant with Israel (Deuteronomy 30:19). This invocation underscores the universal scope of the message, indicating that what is about to be declared is of cosmic significance, transcending time and space.
 
for the LORD has spoken
The phrase "for the LORD has spoken" emphasizes the divine authority behind the message. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the sacred name of God, which signifies His eternal and unchanging nature. This declaration is not merely a human opinion but a pronouncement from the Creator Himself. The use of "has spoken" (דִּבֶּר, diber) in the perfect tense indicates a completed action, suggesting that God's word is final and authoritative. This serves as a reminder of the power and reliability of God's word, which does not return void (Isaiah 55:11).
 
I have reared and brought up children
Here, God speaks of His relationship with Israel in familial terms. The Hebrew word for "reared" is "גִּדַּלְתִּי" (gidalti), which conveys the idea of nurturing and raising up. This reflects God's tender care and provision for Israel, akin to a parent's love for their children. "Brought up" (רוֹמַמְתִּי, romamti) suggests elevation and honor, indicating that God not only cared for Israel but also exalted them among the nations. This imagery highlights the depth of God's love and the special status of Israel as His chosen people.
 
but they have rebelled against Me
The tragic contrast is introduced with "but they have rebelled against Me." The Hebrew word for "rebelled" is "פָּשְׁעוּ" (pash'u), which implies a willful and defiant turning away. This rebellion is not merely a passive drifting but an active rejection of God's authority and love. The personal pronoun "Me" underscores the relational breach; it is not just a violation of laws but a betrayal of the covenant relationship with God. This rebellion is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, highlighting the persistent waywardness of God's people despite His unwavering faithfulness.
 
**************
 
Commentary:
 
Invocation of Heaven and Earth:
 
The prophet Isaiah calls upon the heavens and the earth to witness what he is about to say. This is a common literary device in biblical literature to emphasize the importance and solemnity of the message. It signifies that what follows is of cosmic significance, involving the whole creation.
 
The Lord's Speech:
 
"For the Lord has spoken" introduces the direct speech of God, emphasizing divine authority behind the message.
 
Parental Metaphor:
 
God uses the metaphor of a parent ("Children have I reared and brought up") to describe His relationship with Israel. This imagery conveys a sense of care, investment, and expectation. God has nurtured and raised the Israelites, providing for their growth and development.
 
Rebellion:
 
"But they have rebelled against me" highlights the theme of rebellion and ingratitude. Despite the care and upbringing provided by God, the children (Israel) have turned away from Him. This rebellion is not just disobedience but a profound betrayal, akin to children rejecting their parent's guidance and love.
 
Contextual Interpretation:
 
Historical Context: This verse is set during a time of moral and political decline in Judah. Isaiah is warning the people about their waywardness, which includes idolatry, social injustice, and failure to follow God's laws.
 
Theological Message: The verse underscores themes of divine disappointment, the covenant relationship between God and Israel, and the consequences of breaking that covenant. It serves as an introduction to themes of judgment and redemption that are prevalent throughout the Book of Isaiah.
 
Literary Style: Isaiah employs poetry and vivid imagery to convey his message, making it both memorable and emotionally compelling.
 
In summary, Isaiah 1:2 is a poignant call to attention, setting up the theological discourse of the entire book, where God laments over the spiritual condition of His people, setting the stage for the forthcoming messages of judgment and hope for restoration.