Book of Isaiah - Chapter 1 - Verse 21

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah laments over the downfall of Jerusalem, once a city known for its faithfulness and righteousness. The city, which was supposed to uphold justice and righteousness, has now become corrupt and filled with sin. The transformation of Jerusalem from a faithful city to a harlot symbolizes a spiritual decay and moral degradation. The city that was meant to be a beacon of light and truth has now become a dwelling place for murderers, symbolizing the pervasiveness of sin and injustice. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of straying from the path of righteousness and emphasizes the consequences of turning away from God. It is a reminder to always strive to maintain faithfulness and uphold justice in order to avoid moral decay and spiritual destruction.

The verse "How is the faithful city become a harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers." (Isaiah 1:21) is a powerful lamentation over the decline of a once-virtuous city. The phrase "faithful city" refers to Jerusalem, which had turned away from God's laws and fallen into sin. The metaphor of a 'harlot' emphasizes the city's unfaithfulness and betrayal of its covenant with God. The mention of 'judgment' and 'righteousness' highlights the city's former commitment to justice and moral integrity, which have been replaced by violence and bloodshed.

This verse serves as a stark warning against the consequences of forsaking God's ways and serves as a call to repentance and revival. The theological interpretation of this passage underscores the importance of remaining faithful to God's commands and upholding justice and righteousness in all aspects of life. It challenges believers to reflect on their own spiritual state and to strive for a renewed commitment to following God's will.