One verse. Three ways to understand.
You see many things, but you don't really pay attention; you open your ears, but you don't truly listen.
God is pointing out that people can see and hear what's happening around them, but they're not truly understanding or learning from it.
These are AI-assisted adaptations, not separate Bible editions. Compare them with the KJV source and read our methodology. How these readings are made →
Read the KJV source
King James Version · EnglishSeeing many things, but thou observest not; opening the ears, but he heareth not.Ask the AI Assistant
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📚 Historical Context
Isaiah was a prophet in ancient Judah during the 8th century BC, a time of political instability and threats from empires like Assyria, where the people often ignored God's warnings despite witnessing His works. In Isaiah 42, this verse is part of a passage addressing the Servant of the Lord, likely referring to Israel as a nation that has seen God's mighty acts but failed to truly perceive them, symbolizing their spiritual dullness amid calls for repentance. This highlights the broader biblical theme of God's frustration with His people's disobedience, as seen in the context of impending judgment and exile.