Book of Isaiah - Chapter 3 - Verse 1

This verse from the book of Isaiah is a warning to the people of Jerusalem and Judah about the consequences of their disobedience to God. The phrase "take away...the whole stay of bread, and the whole stay of water" signifies the severe punishment that will result from their actions. In ancient times, bread and water were essential for survival, symbolizing the very basic necessities of life. By taking away these provisions, God is demonstrating the extent of His judgment against the people. The use of the term "the Lord, the LORD of hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all creation, highlighting the magnitude of His actions. The verse serves as a reminder that God expects His people to live in accordance with His will and commandments, and that there are consequences for turning away from Him. It is a sobering message about the importance of remaining faithful and obedient to God to avoid facing His righteous judgment.

This verse, found in the book of Isaiah, emphasizes the severity of God's judgment upon Jerusalem and Judah. The imagery used in the verse portrays a removal of all means of sustenance - bread and water - which are often symbolic of basic necessities for survival. The repetition of the phrase "the whole stay" emphasizes the completeness of this deprivation, highlighting the thoroughness of God's judgment. The mention of the Lord of hosts reinforces the idea that this punishment is not arbitrary but is ordained by the supreme authority of God. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the consequences of disobedience and the seriousness of God's judgment. It serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem and Judah to heed God's commands and turn back to Him to avoid facing the dire consequences of their actions. Through word studies, one can delve deeper into the meanings of "stay" and "staff" in their original language, shedding further light on the significance of this verse in its historical and cultural context.