One verse. Three ways to understand.
They don't know or understand: God has closed their eyes so they cannot see, and closed their hearts so they cannot understand.
The writer is explaining that people who worship idols have become spiritually blind and unable to understand the truth about God.
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 · EnglishThey have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.Ask the AI Assistant
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📚 Historical Context
Isaiah was a prophet in ancient Judah during a time when the people were frequently tempted by idolatry, especially from surrounding nations like Babylon. In this verse, he highlights the spiritual blindness of those who worship idols, explaining that God has allowed their eyes and hearts to be shut as a form of judgment for their rebellion. This fits into the broader biblical narrative of God's covenant with Israel, warning of the consequences of turning away from true worship.