Isaiah 25:4
New International Version
You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall

New Living Translation
But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat. For the oppressive acts of ruthless people are like a storm beating against a wall,

English Standard Version
For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat; for the breath of the ruthless is like a storm against a wall,

Berean Standard Bible
For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall,

King James Bible
For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

New King James Version
For You have been a strength to the poor, A strength to the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, A shade from the heat; For the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

New American Standard Bible
For You have been a stronghold for the helpless, A stronghold for the poor in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.

NASB 1995
For You have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.

NASB 1977
For Thou hast been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.

Legacy Standard Bible
For You have been a strong defense for the poor, A strong defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall.

Amplified Bible
For You have been a stronghold for the helpless, A stronghold for the poor in his distress, A shelter from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of tyrants Is like a rainstorm against a wall.

Christian Standard Bible
For you have been a stronghold for the poor person, a stronghold for the needy in his distress, a refuge from storms and a shade from heat. When the breath of the violent is like a storm against a wall,

Holman Christian Standard Bible
For You have been a stronghold for the poor, a stronghold for the needy person in his distress, a refuge from the rain, a shade from the heat. When the breath of the violent is like rain against a wall,

American Standard Version
For thou hast been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

Contemporary English Version
You have been a place of safety for the poor and needy in times of trouble. Brutal enemies pounded us like a heavy rain or the heat of the sun at noon, but you were our shelter.

English Revised Version
For thou hast been a strong hold to the poor, a strong hold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rain, and shade from the heat. (A tyrant's breath is like a rainstorm against a wall,

Good News Translation
The poor and the helpless have fled to you and have been safe in times of trouble. You give them shelter from storms and shade from the burning heat. Cruel enemies attack like a winter storm,

International Standard Version
For you have been a stronghold for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat— for the blistering attack from the ruthless is like a rainstorm beating against a wall,

Majority Standard Bible
For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall,

NET Bible
For you are a protector for the poor, a protector for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm, a shade from the heat. Though the breath of tyrants is like a winter rainstorm,

New Heart English Bible
For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the dreaded ones is like a storm against the wall.

Webster's Bible Translation
For thou hast been a defense to the poor, a defense to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

World English Bible
For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast of the dreaded ones is like a storm against the wall.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
For You have been a stronghold for the poor, "" A stronghold for the needy in his distress, "" A refuge from storm, a shadow from heat, "" When the spirit of the terrible [is] as a storm—a wall.

Young's Literal Translation
For Thou hast been a stronghold for the poor, A stronghold for the needy in his distress, A refuge from storm, a shadow from heat, When the spirit of the terrible is as a storm -- a wall.

Smith's Literal Translation
For thou wert a fortress to the poor, a fortress to the needy in straits; to him a refuge from the inundation, a shadow from the heat when the wind of the terrible ones as the inundation of the wall.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Because thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress: a refuge from the whirlwind, a shadow from the heat. For the blast of the mighty is like a whirlwind beating against a wall.

Catholic Public Domain Version
For you have been the strength of the poor, the strength of the indigent in his tribulation, a refuge from the whirlwind, a shadow from the heat. For the spirit of the mighty is like a whirlwind striking against a wall.

New American Bible
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress; Shelter from the rain, shade from the heat. When the blast of the ruthless was like a winter rain,

New Revised Standard Version
For you have been a refuge to the poor, a refuge to the needy in their distress, a shelter from the rainstorm and a shade from the heat. When the blast of the ruthless was like a winter rainstorm,
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a helper to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; for the blast of the mighty ones is as a storm against the wall.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
Because you have been the protector to the poor and the helper to the afflicted in affliction, a refuge from the storm and shade from the heat
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
For Thou hast been a stronghold to the poor, A stronghold to the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat; For the blast of the terrible ones was as a storm against the wall.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
For thou hast been a helper to every lowly city, and a shelter to them that were disheartened by reason of poverty: thou shalt deliver them from wicked men: thou hast been a shelter of them that thirst, and a refreshing air to injured men.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
A Song of Praise for God's Favor
3Therefore, a strong people will honor You. The cities of ruthless nations will revere You. 4For You have been a refuge for the poor, a stronghold for the needy in distress, a refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall, 5like heat in a dry land. You subdue the uproar of foreigners. As the shade of a cloud cools the heat, so the song of the ruthless is silenced.…

Cross References
Psalm 46:1
For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.

Psalm 91:1-2
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. / I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Psalm 18:2
The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalm 27:5
For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent; He will set me high upon a rock.

Psalm 32:7
You are my hiding place. You protect me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah

Psalm 61:3-4
For You have been my refuge, a tower of strength against the enemy. / Let me dwell in Your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. Selah

Psalm 62:7-8
My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God. / Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge. Selah

Psalm 71:3
Be my rock of refuge, where I can always go. Give the command to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress.

Psalm 121:5-6
The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand. / The sun will not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

Proverbs 18:10
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

Isaiah 4:6
a shelter to give shade from the heat by day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and the rain.

Isaiah 32:2
Each will be like a shelter from the wind, a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in a dry land, like the shadow of a great rock in an arid land.

Isaiah 33:16
he will dwell on the heights; the mountain fortress will be his refuge; his food will be provided and his water assured.

Nahum 1:7
The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.

Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. / Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. / For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”


Treasury of Scripture

For you have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

thou hast

Isaiah 11:4
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.

Isaiah 14:32
What shall one then answer the messengers of the nation? That the LORD hath founded Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it.

Isaiah 29:19
The meek also shall increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

a refuge

Isaiah 4:5,6
And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence…

Isaiah 32:2
And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

when

Isaiah 32:18,19
And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places; …

Isaiah 37:3,4,36
And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This day is a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and of blasphemy: for the children are come to the birth, and there is not strength to bring forth…

Ezekiel 13:11-13
Say unto them which daub it with untempered morter, that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it

Jump to Previous
Blast Breath Cruel Crushed Defense Distress Dreaded Driving Fortress Heat Helpless Needy Ones Poor Rain Refuge Ruthless Safe Shade Shadow Shelter Spirit Storm Strength Strong Stronghold Terrible Trouble Wall Winter Wrath
Jump to Next
Blast Breath Cruel Crushed Defense Distress Dreaded Driving Fortress Heat Helpless Needy Ones Poor Rain Refuge Ruthless Safe Shade Shadow Shelter Spirit Storm Strength Strong Stronghold Terrible Trouble Wall Winter Wrath
Isaiah 25
1. Song of Praise for God's Favor














For You have been a refuge for the poor
The word "refuge" in Hebrew is "מָעוֹז" (ma'oz), which signifies a place of safety or protection. In the ancient Near Eastern context, cities often had fortified areas where people could seek shelter during attacks. Spiritually, this phrase emphasizes God's role as a protector and provider for those who are economically and socially disadvantaged. The "poor" here can be understood not only in terms of material poverty but also spiritual humility, reflecting the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3, "Blessed are the poor in spirit."

a stronghold for the needy in distress
The term "stronghold" is "מִשְׂגָּב" (misgab) in Hebrew, indicating a high, secure place. Historically, strongholds were crucial for defense against enemies. This phrase reassures believers that God is a reliable fortress for those who are "needy," a term that encompasses all forms of lack or vulnerability. "In distress" suggests times of trouble or adversity, reminding us of God's faithfulness during trials, akin to Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

a refuge from the storm
The imagery of a "storm" is often used in Scripture to symbolize chaos, danger, or divine judgment. The Hebrew word "סַעַר" (sa'ar) conveys a sense of violent weather. In ancient times, storms could devastate crops and homes, representing existential threats. This phrase assures believers that God provides shelter and peace amidst life's tumultuous challenges, echoing Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4:39.

a shade from the heat
"Shade" in Hebrew is "צֵל" (tsel), which offers relief and protection from the oppressive "heat" or "חֹם" (chom). In the arid climate of the Middle East, shade is a precious commodity, symbolizing comfort and respite. This metaphor highlights God's provision of rest and refreshment, reminiscent of Psalm 121:5, "The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is the shade on your right hand."

For the breath of the ruthless is like rain against a wall
The "breath" or "רוּחַ" (ruach) of the "ruthless" signifies their threatening presence or oppressive actions. The "ruthless" are those who act with cruelty or injustice, often oppressing the vulnerable. The comparison to "rain against a wall" suggests that while their actions may seem powerful, they are ultimately futile against God's protection. Walls in ancient cities were designed to withstand natural elements, symbolizing God's enduring strength against human malice. This imagery reassures believers of God's sovereignty and justice, as seen in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

(4) Thou hast been a strength . . .--Literally, a fortress. The fierceness of the oppressor is represented by the intolerable heat, and the fierce tornado of an eastern storm, dashing against the wall, threatening it with destruction. From that storm the faithful servants of the Lord should find shelter as in the castle of the great King.

Verse 4. - The poor... the needy. The "poor and needy" are especially the afflicted saints, whom the ungodly of the earth have so long injured and oppressed. God is ever a "Strength" and "Refuge" to such (comp. Isaiah 14:30; Isaiah 29:19; and see also Psalm 72:12-14). A Refuge from the storm (comp. Isaiah 4:6; and the Psalms passim). A Shadow from the heat. The idea is a little enlarged in Isaiah 32:2. Its germ is, perhaps, to be found in Psalm 121:5, 6. No writer accumulates striking images with such force and beauty as Isaiah. Primarily, the entire imagery has reference to what God will have done for his people when the final consummation arrives. Secondarily, a precious encouragement is held out to all who are undergoing their earthly trial and probation, who are taught where to look for a sure refuge in time of trouble.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
For
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

You have been
הָיִ֨יתָ (hā·yî·ṯā)
Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

a refuge
מָע֥וֹז (mā·‘ō·wz)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4581: A place or means of safety, protection

for the poor,
לַדָּ֛ל (lad·dāl)
Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1800: Dangling, weak, thin

a stronghold
מָע֥וֹז (mā·‘ō·wz)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4581: A place or means of safety, protection

for the needy
לָאֶבְי֖וֹן (lā·’eḇ·yō·wn)
Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 34: In want, needy, poor

in distress,
בַּצַּר־ (baṣ·ṣar-)
Preposition-b, Article | Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6862: Narrow, a tight place, a pebble, an opponent

a refuge
מַחְסֶ֤ה (maḥ·seh)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4268: Refuge, shelter

from the storm,
מִזֶּ֙רֶם֙ (miz·ze·rem)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2230: A flood of rain, rainstorm, downpour

a shade
צֵ֣ל (ṣêl)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6738: A shadow

from the heat.
מֵחֹ֔רֶב (mê·ḥō·reḇ)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2721: Dryness, drought, heat

For
כִּ֛י (kî)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

the breath
ר֥וּחַ (rū·aḥ)
Noun - common singular construct
Strong's 7307: Wind, breath, exhalation, life, anger, unsubstantiality, a region of the sky, spirit

of the ruthless
עָרִיצִ֖ים (‘ā·rî·ṣîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6184: Awe-inspiring, terror-striking

is like rain
כְּזֶ֥רֶם (kə·ze·rem)
Preposition-k | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 2230: A flood of rain, rainstorm, downpour

against a wall,
קִֽיר׃ (qîr)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7023: A wall


Links
Isaiah 25:4 NIV
Isaiah 25:4 NLT
Isaiah 25:4 ESV
Isaiah 25:4 NASB
Isaiah 25:4 KJV

Isaiah 25:4 BibleApps.com
Isaiah 25:4 Biblia Paralela
Isaiah 25:4 Chinese Bible
Isaiah 25:4 French Bible
Isaiah 25:4 Catholic Bible

OT Prophets: Isaiah 25:4 For you have been a stronghold (Isa Isi Is)
Isaiah 25:3
Top of Page
Top of Page