Isaiah 5:12

"Woe to those who rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink, who stay late into the night, until wine inflames them!"

Key Reflection

Isaiah 5:12 paints a vivid picture of a society plagued by excessive drinking and its devastating consequences. The verse critiques those who indulge in alcohol from dawn till dusk, suggesting that their behavior is a form of self-destruction, as it leads to a lack of knowledge and spiritual barrenness among the people. This cultural context highlights how personal vices can have broader societal impacts, undermining wisdom and moral clarity.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The prophet proceeds to state still further the extent of their crimes. This verse contains an account of their dissipated habits, and their consequent forgetfulness of God. That they commonly had musical instruments in their feasts, is evident from many passages of the Old Testament; seeAmos 6:5-6. Their feasts, also, were attended with songs;Isaiah 24:8-9. The harp --כנורkinnôr. This is a well-known stringed instrument, employed commonly in sacred music. It is often mentioned as having been used to express the pious feelings of David;Psalms 32:2;Psalms 43:4;Psalms 49:5. It is early mentioned as having been invented by Jubal;Genesis 4:21.

Related Verses

More from Isaiah 5

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