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Apr 10, 2023 · I the Lord do all these things” (Isaiah 45:6–7, KJV 1900). If everything God created was good (Genesis 1:31; 1 Timothy 4:4; James 1:17), why does Isaiah 45:7 say God created evil? The Hebrew word translated as “evil” (ra‘) in the King James Version of Isaiah 45:7 has two applications in the Bible. The term can be used in the sense of ...
- Questions About Isaiah
Why will God not give His glory to another (Isaiah 42:8)?...
- Questions About Isaiah
Jan 31, 2018 · Isaiah 45:7 KJV: I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things. 2 Kings 22:20 KJV: Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place.
- Historical and Cultural Context
- Linguistic Analysis
- Interpretations of Isaiah 45:7
- Theological Implications
- Practical Applications
- Conclusion
Isaiah’s Prophecy
Isaiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in Israel’s history when the nation faced the threat of invasion and exile. The context of Isaiah 45:7 is God’s declaration through the prophet regarding His sovereignty over all aspects of creation and human history.
Theological Background
In ancient Near Eastern thought, including that of Israel, there was a belief in a single divine authority who controlled both good and evil. This perspective is evident in Isaiah 45:7, where Godasserts His sovereignty over both light and darkness, peace and calamity.
Hebrew Terms
To understand the verse more deeply, it’s essential to examine the Hebrew words used. In Isaiah 45:7, the key terms are: 1. “light” (אוֹר, ‘or) 2. “darkness” (חֹשֶׁךְ, choshek) 3. “peace” (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) 4. “calamity” (רָע, ra)
Interpretive Challenges
The word “ra” translated as “calamity” or “evil” in some versions, is often the subject of debate. In Hebrew, “ra” can indeed mean “evil,” but it can also refer to adversity, disaster, or calamity, depending on the context.
God’s Sovereignty
One interpretation of Isaiah 45:7 emphasizes God’s sovereignty over all aspects of creation and human experience. This view sees God as the ultimate source of order and disorder, blessingand adversity. Amos 3:6: “If there is calamity in a city, will not the Lord have done it?” This verse from Amos similarly emphasizes God’s sovereignty over calamity. However, it’s crucial to understand that God’s sovereignty does not imply that He is the author of moral evil or sin.
Moral Evil versus Natural Disaster
Another interpretation distinguishes between moral evil, which is the result of human sin, and natural disasters or calamities, which are part of the fallen creation. James 1:13: “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be temptedby evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.” This verse from James underscores that God does not tempt anyone to do evil. Instead, moral evil originates from human choices and the influence of spiritual forces opposed to God.
God’s Use of Calamity for His Purposes
Some interpretations emphasize that while God does not cause moral evil, He can use calamity or adversity to accomplish His purposes or bring about redemption. Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who loveGod, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” In this perspective, even in the midst of suffering and calamity, God can bring about ultimate good and fulfill His redemptive purposes.
God’s Justice and Mercy
While God’s sovereignty over calamity may be unsettling, it also highlights His justice and mercy. God is not capricious or arbitrary in His actions but works according to His righteous purposes, which include both judgment and redemption. Psalm 145:17: “The Lord is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works.” This verse affirms God’s righteousness and graciousness in His dealings with humanity, even in the face of suffering and adversity. So, Isaiah 45:7 is not to be understood in...
Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Understanding God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life can provide comfort and assurance, especially in times of uncertainty and suffering. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Trusting in God’s sovereignty means acknowledging His wisdomand goodness even when circumstances seem dire.
Responsiveness to God’s Guidance
Recognizing God’s sovereignty also calls believers to be responsive to His guidance and leading, even in the midst of adversity. Isaiah 30:21: “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.” God’s guidance can lead believers through times of trial and hardship, helping them navigate the challenges of life.
Isaiah 45:7 presents a profound declaration of God’s sovereignty over all aspects of creation, including light and darkness, peace and calamity. While the verse acknowledges God’s control over calamity, it does not imply that God is the author of moral evil. Instead, it emphasizes God’s ultimate authority and purpose in the unfolding of human histo...
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. / Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. / And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. Amos 3:6 If a ram’s horn sounds in a city, do the people not tremble?
Isaiah 45:7. I form the light, and create darkness, &c. — All men’s comforts and calamities come from my hand. “It was the great principle of the Magian religion, which prevailed in Persia in the time of Cyrus, and in which probably he was educated, that there are two supreme, coeternal, and independent causes, always acting in opposition one to the other; one, the author of all good ...
I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.
Sep 22, 2022 · Isaiah 45:7 in the King James Version reads, “I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.” How does Isaiah 45:7 agree with the view that God did not create evil? There are two key facts that need to be considered. (1) The word translated “evil” is from… Continue reading Why does Isaiah 45:7 say that God created evil?
