Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Isaiah - Chapter 14 - Verse 21

14:21
Prepare slaughter for his children for the iniquity of their fathers; that they do not rise, nor possess the land, nor fill the face of the world with cities.

Meaning

Historically, this verse has been interpreted as a call for vengeance against a nation or people who have committed significant sins or crimes. The idea of punishing the children for the sins of their fathers was a common theme in ancient warfare, where entire families or communities were held responsible for the actions of their leaders or ancestors. In this context, the verse can be seen as a warning or prophecy of the destruction or downfall of a particular group of people due to the sins of their forefathers. The imagery of preparing slaughter for their children is a powerful and chilling reminder of the consequences of past wrongdoings. Ultimately, the verse serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness to avoid the devastating legacy of sin and iniquity.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse could be that it reflects the concept of generational sin or the consequences of the sins of one's ancestors. The idea that the sins of the fathers will be visited upon the children is a recurring theme in the Bible, and in this case, it is being depicted as a form of divine punishment. The language of "prepare slaughter for his children" may be understood metaphorically to mean that the descendants of the sinful forefathers will face judgment for the iniquities committed by their predecessors. The verse speaks to the seriousness of sin and the principle of accountability before God, emphasizing that the actions of one generation can have far-reaching implications for future generations. Through word studies, scholars can delve deeper into the nuances of the original language to gain a richer understanding of the verse's implications and theological significance.

American Standard Version

Prepare ye slaughter for his children for the iniquity of their fathers, that they rise not up, and possess the earth, and fill the face of the world with cities.
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