Isaiah 59:6

Their cobwebs cannot be made into clothing, and they cannot cover themselves with their works. Their deeds are sinful deeds, and acts of violence are in their hands.

Study Bible

Their cobwebs cannot be made into clothing
The imagery of "cobwebs" in this verse is a powerful metaphor for the futility and fragility of the actions of the wicked. In the Hebrew text, the word for "cobwebs" (קורי) suggests something that is intricately woven yet ultimately weak and insubstantial. Historically, cobwebs have been seen as symbols of entrapment and deceit, reflecting the deceptive practices of those who turn away from righteousness. The phrase "cannot be made into clothing" emphasizes the uselessness of their efforts; just as cobwebs cannot provide warmth or protection, the sinful deeds of the wicked cannot cover their spiritual nakedness or shame. This imagery calls to mind the broader biblical theme of righteousness as a garment, as seen in passages like Isaiah 61:10, where salvation is likened to a robe.

and they cannot cover themselves with their works
The phrase "they cannot cover themselves" underscores the inadequacy of human efforts to achieve righteousness through works alone. In the Hebrew context, "cover" (יכסו) often implies atonement or protection, which is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. The inability to "cover themselves with their works" highlights the futility of relying on one's own deeds for justification before God. This aligns with the conservative Christian understanding that salvation is not achieved through works but through faith in Jesus Christ, as articulated in Ephesians 2:8-9. The verse serves as a reminder of the need for divine grace and the insufficiency of human efforts to attain true righteousness.

Their deeds are worthless deeds
The repetition of "deeds" (מעשיהם) in this context emphasizes the focus on actions and their moral value. The term "worthless" (און) conveys a sense of emptiness and vanity, suggesting that the actions of the wicked are devoid of true substance or value. This reflects the biblical principle that actions not rooted in faith and obedience to God are ultimately futile. The historical context of Isaiah's prophecy often addressed the social injustices and idolatry of Israel, calling the people to repentance and genuine worship. The phrase serves as a warning against the pursuit of self-serving or unrighteous actions, which are ultimately "worthless" in the sight of God.

and they commit violence with their hands
The word "violence" (חמס) in Hebrew carries connotations of injustice, oppression, and cruelty. This phrase highlights the tangible, destructive impact of sin, as the "hands" symbolize the execution of one's intentions and actions. In the historical context of Isaiah, the prophet frequently condemned the leaders and people of Israel for their social injustices and failure to uphold God's law. The mention of "violence" serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the harm that sin inflicts on individuals and communities. From a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the call to live justly and to love one's neighbor, as emphasized in Micah 6:8 and throughout the teachings of Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book that bears his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which Isaiah addressed in his prophecies. The people of Judah were often rebuked for their unfaithfulness and social injustices.

3. The People of Israel
The audience of Isaiah's message, who were guilty of sin and in need of repentance and redemption.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Human Efforts
Human attempts to cover sin through their own works are as ineffective as trying to make clothing from cobwebs. Our righteousness must come from God, not our deeds.

The Nature of Sin
Sin is not just an abstract concept but is manifested in tangible actions, such as violence and injustice. Recognizing the reality of sin is the first step toward repentance.

The Need for Divine Intervention
Just as the people of Judah needed God's intervention, we too need God's grace and redemption through Jesus Christ to cover our sins.

Self-Examination
Believers are called to examine their lives for "sinful deeds" and seek God's forgiveness and transformation.

Living Out Faith
True faith is demonstrated through righteous actions that align with God's will, contrasting with the sinful deeds described in Isaiah.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Isaiah 59:6 illustrate the inadequacy of human efforts to achieve righteousness? Reflect on your own life and identify areas where you might be relying on your own works rather than God's grace.

2. In what ways do the "sinful deeds" mentioned in Isaiah 59:6 manifest in today's society? How can Christians respond to these issues in a way that reflects God's justice and mercy?

3. Compare Isaiah 59:6 with Isaiah 64:6. How do these verses together deepen our understanding of the nature of human righteousness versus God's righteousness?

4. How does the message of Isaiah 59:6 connect with the New Testament teaching in Romans 3:23? What does this connection teach us about the universality of sin and the need for salvation?

5. Reflect on James 2:26 in light of Isaiah 59:6. How can you ensure that your faith is accompanied by works that are pleasing to God, rather than "sinful deeds"?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 64:6
This verse also speaks to the inadequacy of human righteousness, comparing it to "filthy rags," which connects to the idea that human efforts cannot cover sin.

Romans 3:23
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of universal sinfulness, emphasizing that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

James 2:26
This verse highlights the importance of faith being accompanied by works, contrasting with the "sinful deeds" mentioned in Isaiah 59:6.