Isaiah 57:6 – “The idols among the smooth stones of the ravines are your portion; indeed, they are your lot. Yes, to them you have poured out drink offerings and offered grain offerings. In view of all this, should I relent?”
Isaiah 57:6 highlights the futility and tragedy of idolatry. God confronts the people of Israel for their misplaced devotion to false gods, represented here by the “smooth stones of the ravines.” This verse is a vivid reminder of the spiritual consequences of turning away from God.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes how the people of Israel abandoned their devotion to the living God and gave themselves over to idol worship. The “smooth stones of the ravines” refer to the objects of their worship, which were likely associated with pagan fertility rituals and natural elements. These stones, lifeless and powerless, had become their “portion” and “lot”—the focus of their lives and hopes.
The mention of pouring out drink offerings and offering grain offerings indicates how much effort and devotion the people invested in their idolatry. Instead of worshiping God, who had delivered and provided for them, they gave their worship to inanimate objects, forsaking the true source of their blessings.
God’s rhetorical question, “Should I relent?” underscores His righteous anger. He challenges the people to consider whether their actions merit His patience or judgment.
Historical Context
During Isaiah’s time, Israel was surrounded by nations that worshiped idols and engaged in pagan rituals. Despite God’s repeated warnings through His prophets, the people of Israel often adopted these practices, influenced by their neighbors. The worship of idols in ravines or high places was common, as these locations were thought to hold spiritual significance in pagan religions.
This idolatry was a direct violation of the covenant relationship between God and His people, as outlined in the Ten Commandments: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). Isaiah’s message called the people to recognize their sin and return to the one true God.
Theological Implications
Isaiah 57:6 reveals the devastating effects of idolatry. When people turn from God, they inevitably place their trust in something else—whether it’s physical idols, wealth, power, or other worldly pursuits. This verse reminds us that such substitutes are empty and incapable of providing true fulfillment or salvation.
The verse also shows God’s justice and holiness. While He is patient and merciful, He will not tolerate idolatry indefinitely. His question, “Should I relent?” points to the reality that sin has consequences, and judgment is a natural result of rejecting God.
Literary Analysis
The imagery in this verse is striking. The “smooth stones of the ravines” symbolize the lifeless and futile nature of idols. The use of the words “portion” and “lot” suggests that the people had chosen these idols as their inheritance, a tragic exchange for the blessings God had intended for them.
The rhetorical question at the end of the verse serves to confront the audience and provoke self-examination. It is both a statement of God’s justice and an invitation to repentance.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 115:4-8: “But their idols are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see… Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.”
- Jeremiah 2:13: “My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.”
- Exodus 34:14: “Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”
These verses highlight the emptiness of idolatry and God’s rightful demand for exclusive worship.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Isaiah 57:6 is a reminder to examine their hearts for modern forms of idolatry. While few people bow to physical idols, it’s easy to place undue importance on material possessions, personal ambitions, or relationships. This verse challenges believers to ask: “What is my portion? What am I truly living for?”
It also reminds Christians to offer their worship and devotion solely to God, recognizing that He alone is worthy and able to provide lasting peace and purpose.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Though this verse expresses God’s judgment, it also reflects His love. By confronting the people’s sin, God is calling them to repentance. His question, “Should I relent?” shows His desire for them to recognize their wrongdoing and return to Him. He does not want His people to continue in a path that leads to destruction.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Isaiah 57:6 points to humanity’s deep need for redemption, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Just as the people of Israel were enslaved to idolatry, humanity as a whole is enslaved to sin. Jesus came to free us from that bondage and restore us to a right relationship with God.
- John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
- Colossians 1:13-14: “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”
Jesus offers a new “portion” and “lot”—a relationship with God that satisfies the deepest needs of the human heart.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are some modern “idols” that can distract you from fully trusting in God?
- How does this verse challenge you to evaluate where you place your devotion and hope?
- What does it mean for God to be your “portion” and “lot”?
- How can you guard against the subtle pull of idolatry in your life?
- How does Jesus provide the ultimate solution to the emptiness of idolatry?
Isaiah 57:6 reminds us of the danger of idolatry and the importance of placing our trust in God alone. It calls us to examine our hearts, repent of anything that competes with our devotion to God, and embrace the abundant life that comes through Jesus Christ.