Isaiah 66:4

Isaiah 66:4 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So I will choose their punishment and I will bring terror upon them, because I called and no one answered, I spoke and no one listened. But they did evil in My sight and chose that in which I did not delight.”

King James Version KJV

I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.

American Standard Version ASV

I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did that which was evil in mine eyes, and chose that wherein I delighted not.

Bible in Basic English BBE

So I will go after trouble for them, and will send on them what they are fearing: because no one made answer to my voice, or gave ear to my word; but they did what was evil in my eyes, going after that in which I took no pleasure.

Free Bible Version FBV

I will also choose to punish them severely and to terrify them, because I called out to them but no one answered; I spoke to them, but no one listened. Instead they did what's evil in my sight, choosing to do what I hate.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Therefore will I chuse out their delusions, and I will bring their feare vpon them, because I called, and none woulde answere: I spake and they woulde not heare: but they did euill in my sight, and chose the things which I would not.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

I also — I fix on their vexations, And their fears I bring in to them, Because I have called, and there is none answering, I spake, and they have not hearkened, And they do the evil things in Mine eyes, And on that which I desired not — fixed.

World English Bible WEB

I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears on them, because when I called, no one answered; when I spoke, they didn’t listen, but they did that which was evil in my eyes, and chose that in which I didn’t delight.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spoke, they did not hear: but they did evil before my eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Wherefore I also will choose their mockeries, and will bring upon them the things they feared: because I called, and there was none that would answer; I have spoken, and they heard not; and they have done evil in my eyes, and have chosen the things that displease me.

Translation for Translators T4T

When I called out to you, you did not answer. When I spoke, you did not pay attention. You did many things that I say are evil; you chose to do things that I did not like. So now I will punish you by causing you to experience the things that you are very afraid of.”

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — Isaiah 66:4

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Isaiah 66:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB גַּם אֲנִ֞י אֶבְחַ֣ר בְּ/תַעֲלֻלֵי/הֶ֗ם וּ/מְגֽוּרֹתָ/ם֙ אָבִ֣יא לָ/הֶ֔ם יַ֤עַן קָרָ֨אתִי֙ וְ/אֵ֣ין עוֹנֶ֔ה דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי וְ/לֹ֣א שָׁמֵ֑עוּ וַ/יַּעֲשׂ֤וּ הָ/רַע֙ בְּ/עֵינַ֔/י וּ/בַ/אֲשֶׁ֥ר לֹֽא חָפַ֖צְתִּי בָּחָֽרוּ

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

אֲנִ֞י ʼănîy H589 I Pron

אֶבְחַ֣ר bâchar H977 to choose V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

בְּ/תַעֲלֻלֵי/הֶ֗ם taʻălûwl H8586 caprice Prep | N-mp | Suff

וּ/מְגֽוּרֹתָ/ם֙ mᵉgûwrâh H4035 fear Conj | N-fp | Suff

אָבִ֣יא bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Hiphil-Imperf-1cs

לָ/הֶ֔ם Prep | Suff

יַ֤עַן yaʻan H3282 because Conj

קָרָ֨אתִי֙ qârâʼ H7121 to call V-Qal-Perf-1cs

וְ/אֵ֣ין ʼayin H369 nothing Conj | Part

עוֹנֶ֔ה ʻânâh H6030 to dwell V-Qal

דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי dâbar H1696 to speak V-Piel-Perf-1cs

וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

שָׁמֵ֑עוּ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Qal-Perf-3cp

וַ/יַּעֲשׂ֤וּ ʻâsâh H6213 to make Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

הָ/רַע֙ raʻ H7451 bad Art | Adj

בְּ/עֵינַ֔/י ʻayin H5869 eye Prep | N-cd | Suff

וּ/בַ/אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Conj | Prep | Rel

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Part

חָפַ֖צְתִּי châphêts H2654 to delight in V-Qal-Perf-1cs

בָּחָֽרוּ bâchar H977 to choose V-Qal-Perf-3cp

Hebrew Word Study

Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.

Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.

Hebrew Word Reference — Isaiah 66:4

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

אֲנִ֞י ʼănîy H589 "I" Pron

This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.

Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)

Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.

אֶבְחַ֣ר bâchar H977 "to choose" V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

To choose or select is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which appears in Deuteronomy. It can also mean to be chosen or elected. The KJV translates it as 'choose' or 'acceptable'.

Definition: 1) to choose, elect, decide for 1a) (Qal) to choose 1b) (Niphal) to be chosen 1c) (Pual) to be chosen, selected

Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: acceptable, appoint, choose (choice), excellent, join, be rather, require. See also: Genesis 6:2; 2 Kings 23:27; Psalms 25:12.

בְּ/תַעֲלֻלֵי/הֶ֗ם taʻălûwl H8586 "caprice" Prep | N-mp | Suff

This word describes a fit of anger or a tyrannical leader, conveying a sense of capriciousness or unpredictability. It appears in books like Job and the Psalms, where it is used to describe the actions of wicked people. The concept is often associated with evil or foolish behavior.

Definition: wantonness, caprice, vexation

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: babe, delusion. See also: Isaiah 3:4; Isaiah 66:4.

וּ/מְגֽוּרֹתָ/ם֙ mᵉgûwrâh H4035 "fear" Conj | N-fp | Suff

This word can mean fear or terror, but also a storehouse for grain. It appears in the Bible when talking about emotions or a physical place to store food. The KJV translates it as barn or fear.

Definition: 1) fear, terror 2) storehouse, granary

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: barn, fear. See also: Isaiah 66:4; Haggai 2:19.

אָבִ֣יא bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Hiphil-Imperf-1cs

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

לָ/הֶ֔ם "" Prep | Suff

יַ֤עַן yaʻan H3282 "because" Conj

This Hebrew word means because or therefore, and is used to show the reason or cause of something, like in a sentence explaining why something happened. It is often translated as because or for in the KJV Bible. This word helps us understand the motivations behind actions.

Definition: conj 1) because, therefore, because that, on account of prep 2) because of, on account of 3) why (with interrogative pron)

Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: because (that), forasmuch ([phrase] as), seeing then, [phrase] that, [phrase] wheras, [phrase] why. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 25:8; Psalms 109:16.

קָרָ֨אתִי֙ qârâʼ H7121 "to call" V-Qal-Perf-1cs

This Hebrew word means to call out to someone or something, often by name. It's used in many situations, like calling for help or reading aloud. In Genesis, God calls out to Adam in the Garden.

Definition: : call_to/invite/entreat 1) to call, call out, recite, read, cry out, proclaim 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to call, cry, utter a loud sound 1a2) to call unto, cry (for help), call (with name of God) 1a3) to proclaim 1a4) to read aloud, read (to oneself), read 1a5) to summon, invite, call for, call and commission, appoint, call and endow 1a6) to call, name, give name to, call by 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to call oneself 1b2) to be called, be proclaimed, be read aloud, be summoned, be named 1c) (Pual) to be called, be named, be called out, be chosen

Usage: Occurs in 689 OT verses. KJV: bewray (self), that are bidden, call (for, forth, self, upon), cry (unto), (be) famous, guest, invite, mention, (give) name, preach, (make) proclaim(-ation), pronounce, publish, read, renowned, say. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 49:1; Judges 1:26.

וְ/אֵ֣ין ʼayin H369 "nothing" Conj | Part

This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.

Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.

עוֹנֶ֔ה ʻânâh H6030 "to dwell" V-Qal

This verb means to sing or make music, but also to respond or give an answer. In the Bible, it is used to describe praising God in song or responding to a question. The KJV translates it as 'sing' or 'answer'.

Definition: (Qal) to dwell

Usage: Occurs in 316 OT verses. KJV: give account, afflict (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), (cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), cry, hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, [idiom] scholar, (give a) shout, sing (together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness. See also H1042 (בֵּית עֲנוֹת), H1043 (בֵּית עֲנָת). See also: Genesis 18:27; 2 Samuel 14:19; Job 40:2.

דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי dâbar H1696 "to speak" V-Piel-Perf-1cs

To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.

Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight

Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.

וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

שָׁמֵ֑עוּ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

וַ/יַּעֲשׂ֤וּ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

הָ/רַע֙ raʻ H7451 "bad" Art | Adj

Ra means bad or evil, referring to moral or natural harm. It describes adversity, affliction, or distress, and is often used to convey a sense of misery or injury.

Definition: : harmful adj 1) bad, evil 1a) bad, disagreeable, malignant 1b) bad, unpleasant, evil (giving pain, unhappiness, misery) 1c) evil, displeasing 1d) bad (of its kind-land, water, etc) 1e) bad (of value) 1f) worse than, worst (comparison) 1g) sad, unhappy 1h) evil (hurtful) 1i) bad, unkind (vicious in disposition) 1j) bad, evil, wicked (ethically) 1j1) in general, of persons, of thoughts 1j2) deeds, actions

Usage: Occurs in 623 OT verses. KJV: adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, [phrase] displease(-ure), distress, evil((-favouredness), man, thing), [phrase] exceedingly, [idiom] great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), [phrase] mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, [phrase] not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See also: Genesis 2:9; Judges 9:57; 2 Kings 21:6.

בְּ/עֵינַ֔/י ʻayin H5869 "eye" Prep | N-cd | Suff

This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.

וּ/בַ/אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Conj | Prep | Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

חָפַ֖צְתִּי châphêts H2654 "to delight in" V-Qal-Perf-1cs

This verb means to be pleased with something or someone. In the Bible, it describes God's delight in his people and their desire to follow him, like in Psalm 51.

Definition: 1) to delight in, take pleasure in, desire, be pleased with 1a) (Qal) 1a1) of men 1a1a) to take pleasure in, delight in 1a1b) to delight, desire, be pleased to do 1a2) of God 1a2a) to delight in, have pleasure in 1a2b) to be pleased to do

Usage: Occurs in 71 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any at all, (have, take) delight, desire, favour, like, move, be (well) pleased, have pleasure, will, would. See also: Genesis 34:19; Psalms 51:21; Psalms 18:20.

בָּחָֽרוּ bâchar H977 "to choose" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

To choose or select is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which appears in Deuteronomy. It can also mean to be chosen or elected. The KJV translates it as 'choose' or 'acceptable'.

Definition: 1) to choose, elect, decide for 1a) (Qal) to choose 1b) (Niphal) to be chosen 1c) (Pual) to be chosen, selected

Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: acceptable, appoint, choose (choice), excellent, join, be rather, require. See also: Genesis 6:2; 2 Kings 23:27; Psalms 25:12.

Study Notes — Isaiah 66:4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Isaiah 66:4 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 66:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 66:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4
Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4
Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4
Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 66:4
Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 66:4
Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4
Sermons on Isaiah 66:4

Context — Heaven Is My Throne

2Has not My hand made all these things? And so they came into being,” declares the LORD. “This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word. 3Whoever slaughters an ox is like one who slays a man; whoever sacrifices a lamb is like one who breaks a dog’s neck; whoever presents a grain offering is like one who offers pig’s blood; whoever offers frankincense is like one who blesses an idol. Indeed, they have chosen their own ways and delighted in their abominations.

4So I will choose their punishment and I will bring terror upon them, because I called and no one answered, I spoke and no one listened. But they did evil in My sight and chose that in which I did not delight.”

5You who tremble at His word, hear the word of the LORD: “Your brothers who hate you and exclude you because of My name have said, ‘Let the LORD be glorified that we may see your joy!’ But they will be put to shame.” 6Hear the uproar from the city; listen to the voice from the temple! It is the voice of the LORD, repaying His enemies what they deserve!

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Isaiah 65:12	I will destine you for the sword, and you will all kneel down to be slaughtered, because I called and you did not answer, I spoke and you did not listen; you did evil in My sight and chose that in which I did not delight.”
2	Jeremiah 7:13	And now, because you have done all these things, declares the LORD, and because I have spoken to you again and again but you would not listen, and I have called to you but you would not answer,
3	Proverbs 10:24	What the wicked man dreads will overtake him, but the desire of the righteous will be granted.
4	2 Kings 21:2	And he did evil in the sight of the LORD by following the abominations of the nations that the LORD had driven out before the Israelites.
5	Proverbs 1:24	Because you refused my call, and no one took my outstretched hand,
6	2 Kings 21:6	He sacrificed his own son in the fire, practiced sorcery and divination, and consulted mediums and spiritists. He did great evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger.
7	Psalms 81:12	So I gave them up to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices.
8	Proverbs 1:31–32	So they will eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them.
9	1 Kings 22:19–23	Micaiah continued, “Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing by Him on His right and on His left. And the LORD said, ‘Who will entice Ahab to march up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?’ And one suggested this, and another that. Then a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD, and said, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘By what means?’ asked the LORD. And he replied, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets.’ ‘You will surely entice him and prevail,’ said the LORD. ‘Go and do it.’ So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours, and the LORD has pronounced disaster against you.”
10	2 Thessalonians 2:10–12	and with every wicked deception directed against those who are perishing, because they refused the love of the truth that would have saved them. For this reason God will send them a powerful delusion so that they believe the lie, in order that judgment may come upon all who have disbelieved the truth and delighted in wickedness.

Isaiah 66:4 Summary

[Isaiah 66:4 tells us that God will choose a punishment for those who refuse to listen to Him and who do evil in His sight. This means that God takes our disobedience seriously and will hold us accountable for our actions. As it says in Psalm 51:17, 'The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart', we must come before God with humility and repentance, recognizing our sin and our need for forgiveness. By doing so, we can avoid the punishment that comes from rejecting God's call and instead experience His love and mercy.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that God 'called and no one answered' in Isaiah 66:4?

This phrase suggests that God had reached out to His people, but they ignored or rejected His call, similar to what is described in Proverbs 1:24, where it says 'I called and you refused'

Why does God say He will 'choose their punishment' in this verse?

God's choice of punishment is a result of His people's disobedience and refusal to listen to Him, as seen in Isaiah 66:4, and is consistent with the principle stated in Romans 2:5-6, where God's wrath is revealed against those who refuse to obey Him

What does it mean to 'do evil in God's sight' as mentioned in Isaiah 66:4?

To do evil in God's sight means to act in ways that are contrary to God's will and commands, as described in Deuteronomy 12:31, where it says 'Everyone who is found doing these detestable things is an abomination to the Lord'

How does God's statement in Isaiah 66:4 relate to His character as a loving God?

God's statement in Isaiah 66:4 demonstrates His justice and holiness, which are essential aspects of His character, as seen in Exodus 34:6-7, where God describes Himself as 'a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty'

Reflection Questions

What are some ways in which I may be ignoring or rejecting God's call in my own life, and how can I be more responsive to His voice?
In what ways have I chosen to 'do evil in God's sight' by acting contrary to His will and commands, and what steps can I take to repent and turn back to Him?
How does the concept of God's justice and holiness, as seen in Isaiah 66:4, impact my understanding of His love and mercy?
What does it mean for me to 'tremble at God's word' as described in Isaiah 66:2 and 5, and how can I cultivate a deeper reverence for God's commands and promises in my life?

Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 66:4

I also will choose their delusions,.... Suffer them to approve and make choice of such persons that should delude and deceive them; as the Scribes and Pharisees, who were wolves in sheep's clothing,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 66:4

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4

They had made their choice, they chose not the ways of God, but their own ways, that which God delighted not in, as in the latter part of this verse; therefore (saith God) I will also choose their delusions, or illusions, or devices. Montanus translates it, ad inventionibus; it is a noun derived from a word which signifies to speak childishly or corruptly; the word in this form is only used in this text, and in ; it signifies studies, or works, . It is an ordinary thing for God thus generally to declare his justice against men, that he will deal with sinners as they deal with him; so ,26 Leviticus 26:27,28 Jeremiah 34:17 ,28. The meaning is, I will be no kinder to them than they have been to me; they have chosen to mock and delude me, I will choose to suffer them to delude themselves; or they have chosen to work wickedness, I will choose the effect. Their fears; that is, (say some,) the things which they feared, and did these things to avoid, as . Others by their fears choose rather to understand such terrors and affrightments as are natural to men upon the prospect of great evils, as. : as God in mercy delivereth his people from their fears, ; so in judgment he causeth fears as a great judgment to possess sinners, . Because when I called, none did answer; because when by my prophets I exhorted you to your duty, very few yielded obedience: see . When I spake, they did not hear: hearing here signifieth hearkening or obeying; not hearing is expounded by doing evil, and choosing that wherein God delighted not. God accounts that those do not hear who do not obey his will.

Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4

Isaiah 66:4 I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose [that] in which I delighted not.Ver. 4. I also will choose their delusions.] As they have had their will, so will I have mine another while. I will make them to perish by their mockeries, idque ex lege talionis. See Isaiah 65:11-12. They thought to dupe me by an outside service; but it shall appear that they have duped themselves when I bring upon them mercedem multiplicis petulantiae eorum, as Piscator rendereth it, the reward of their manifold petulancies and illusions. And will bring their fear upon them.] Inducam nivem super eos qui timuerunt a pruina. They have feared the coming of the Chaldees, and come they shall. So their posterity feared the Romans, and they felt their fury. See Proverbs 10:24. Because when I called, &c.] See Isaiah 65:12.

Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4

(4) I also will choose their delusions . . .—The Hebrew noun conveys the thought of the turnings and windings of fortune—what has been called the irony of history. These are the instruments with which God, as it were, mocks and has in derision those who mock Him by their hypocrisy. Their choice did not delight Him; what He chooses will be far other than delightful for them. (Comp. Psalms 2:4; Proverbs 1:24-26.)

Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 66:4

4. delusions] Perhaps insults; see on ch. Isaiah 3:4. Cheyne renders expressively “freaks of fortune,” remarking, “the word is very peculiar: it represents calamity under the figure of a petulant child.” their fears] i.e. “that which they fear,” and strive to avert by their magical rites. because when I called &c.] Repeated from ch. Isaiah 65:12.

Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 66:4

I also will choose their delusions - Margin, ‘Devices.’ The Hebrew word rendered here ‘delusions’ and ‘devices’ (תעלוּלים ta‛ălûlı̂ym) properly denotes petulance, sauciness; and then vexation,

Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 66:4

4. Choose their delusions — “Delusions” — rather, devices — consists of still offering ritual worship now that its original intent is all removed from it.

Sermons on Isaiah 66:4

	Sermon	Description
	The Grace and Duty of Being Spiritually Minded #2 by John Owen	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on the word of God to detach our hearts and affections from worldly things. He encourages believers to have a con
	From Judgement to Blessing by Richard Ganz	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the Old Covenant prophetic book of Malachi and its ending with a message of judgment. Despite the terrifying nature of the words, the Old Co
	10 Reasons for Unanswered Prayer by George Verwer	In this sermon, a young preacher asks for advice after delivering his first sermon. An old man approaches him and gives him three pieces of advice. The first advice is to read ever
	The End of the Wicked Contemplated by the Righteous by Jonathan Edwards	Jonathan Edwards preaches about the end of the wicked contemplated by the righteous, emphasizing the fall of Babylon, the vengeance of God executed upon her, and the eternal punish
	Sermon Proof Christians by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the speaker begins by directing the congregation to raise their hands and guiding them to a place of prayer. He quotes a verse from the Bible about prayer and suppl
	Learn Not the Way of the Heathen - Part 2 by Joshua Daniel	This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of not following the ways of the world but seeking the touch of God's fire to cleanse and purify our hearts. It warns against
	Hearing the Voice of God by A.W. Tozer	A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of being willing to hear the voice of God, reflecting on the historical rejection of prophets and wise men sent by God. He highlights Jesus' la