Isaiah 10:15

KJV

Shall the axe boast itself against him that heweth therewith? [or] shall the saw magnify itself against him that shaketh it? as if the rod should shake [itself] against them that lift it up, [or] as if the staff should lift up [itself, as if it were] no wood.

KJV (with Strong's)

Shall the axe {H1631} boast {H6286} itself against him that heweth {H2672} therewith? or shall the saw {H4883} magnify {H1431} itself against him that shaketh {H5130} it? as if the rod {H7626} should shake {H5130} itself against them that lift it up {H7311}, or as if the staff {H4294} should lift up {H7311} itself, as if it were no wood {H6086}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Should the axe glorify itself over the one who chops with it? Should the saw magnify itself over the one who moves it? It's as if a stick could wave the hand that raises it up, or as if a wooden staff could lift [a person, who is] not made of wood.

Berean Standard Bible

Does an axe raise itself above the one who swings it? Does a saw boast over him who saws with it? It would be like a rod waving the one who lifts it, or a staff lifting him who is not wood!

American Standard Version

Shall the axe boast itself against him that heweth therewith? shall the saw magnify itself against him that wieldeth it? as if a rod should wield them that lift it up, or as if a staff should lift up him that is not wood.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 10:15 delivers a profound rhetorical challenge to the arrogant Assyrian Empire, which God had employed as an instrument of judgment against Judah and Israel. Through a series of vivid analogies, the verse exposes the utter absurdity of a tool boasting against its wielder, or an inanimate object claiming agency over its master. It serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty over all nations and human endeavors, reminding even the mightiest powers that they are mere instruments in His divine plan, utterly dependent on His will and purpose for their existence and function.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 10:15 is situated within a larger prophetic oracle (chapters 7-12) concerning God's judgment and ultimate restoration, specifically focusing on the impending judgment against Assyria. Chapters 7-9 detail the Syro-Ephraimite War and the promise of Immanuel, while chapter 10 shifts focus to Assyria, God's chosen "rod of anger" against His disobedient people, as declared in [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria, God's Rod of Anger"). Following its successful campaigns against Israel and Judah, Assyria grew arrogant, attributing its conquests to its own power and wisdom, as highlighted in [Isaiah 10:7-11](/isaiah/10-7-11 "Isaiah 10:7-11 - Assyria's Arrogant Boast"). Verse 15 directly confronts this hubris, preceding God's declaration of His intention to punish Assyria's pride after He has finished using them to accomplish His purpose in Zion, a divine decree found in [Isaiah 10:12](/isaiah/10-12 "Isaiah 10:12 - God Will Punish Assyria's Arrogance"). The passage then transitions to a promise of a remnant's return and the ultimate downfall of Assyria, underscoring God's faithfulness even amidst judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time of Isaiah's prophecy (late 8th century BCE), the Neo-Assyrian Empire was the dominant superpower in the ancient Near East. Known for its brutal military campaigns, efficient administration, and aggressive expansionism, Assyria had already conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Samaria fell in 722 BCE) and posed a constant threat to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. The Assyrian kings, such as Sennacherib, famously boasted of their might and attributed their victories to their own gods and military prowess, seeing themselves as unstoppable forces. The imagery of axes, saws, rods, and staffs would have been familiar to Isaiah's audience, representing common tools and instruments of authority or discipline. The concept of a tool acting independently of its user would have been immediately recognized as absurd, underscoring the profound theological point Isaiah was making about God's ultimate control over even the most powerful human empires and their self-perceived autonomy.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. The most prominent is **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting God's absolute control over all of creation, including nations and their leaders. Assyria, despite its formidable power, is merely an instrument in God's hand, much like a carpenter's tool. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, emphasizing that "the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes," as declared in [Daniel 4:32](/daniel/4-32 "Daniel 4:32 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Another crucial theme is the **Folly of Human Pride and Arrogance**. Assyria's self-exaltation is depicted as utterly nonsensical, akin to an inanimate object boasting against its creator. This highlights the biblical principle that pride inevitably leads to a fall, a truth powerfully articulated in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction"). Finally, the verse underscores the concept of **God's Use of Instruments**, even ungodly ones, to achieve His righteous purposes. Assyria was God's "rod of anger," as stated in [Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria, God's Rod of Anger"), demonstrating that God can sovereignly orchestrate events and use any means necessary to execute His will, even when those instruments are unaware or rebellious against Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Axe (Hebrew, _garzen'_):** This word (H1631) refers to a common cutting tool, specifically an axe. Its inclusion highlights the inanimate nature of the object and its complete dependence on the one who wields it. An axe has no inherent power or will; it only cuts when directed by a user. This emphasizes Assyria's status as a mere instrument, devoid of independent agency in God's grand design, merely a tool in the divine craftsman's hand.
* **Boast (Hebrew, _pâʼar'_):** This verb (H6286) carries the sense of gleam, embellish, or figuratively, to boast or glorify oneself. It speaks to an unwarranted self-exaltation, a taking of credit that is not due. The rhetorical question "Shall the axe boast itself?" underscores the absurdity of an inanimate object claiming honor or achievement for actions it did not initiate or control, directly rebuking Assyria's arrogant self-attribution of its military successes and highlighting the foolishness of such pride.
* **Magnify (Hebrew, _gâdal'_):** This word (H1431) means to be or make large, to grow, increase, or promote oneself, often implying pride or haughtiness. When applied to the saw, "magnify itself" reinforces the idea of self-aggrandizement and an inflated sense of importance. It parallels "boast," reiterating the central theme of prideful self-exaltation by an entity that is inherently subservient and instrumental, completely dependent on its master for its function and effectiveness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Shall the axe boast itself against him that heweth therewith?"**: This opening rhetorical question immediately establishes the central absurdity. An axe is a tool, utterly dependent on the one who uses it for its function. For it to "boast" against its wielder implies a ridiculous claim of independent power or credit. This directly challenges Assyria's self-congratulatory attitude, likening their pride to an inanimate object taking credit for the carpenter's skill and effort.
* **"or shall the saw magnify itself against him that shaketh it?"**: This second question reinforces the first with another common woodworking tool, the saw. The verb "magnify itself" further emphasizes self-exaltation and an inflated sense of importance. The "shaker" is the one providing the power and direction. The parallel structure deepens the rhetorical force, underscoring the utter foolishness of a tool claiming superiority or autonomy over its master, who alone possesses the skill and purpose.
* **"as if the rod should shake [itself] against them that lift it up,"**: The imagery shifts from cutting tools to instruments of authority or discipline—a rod or staff. The phrase "as if" explicitly marks a simile, highlighting the comparison. A rod does not "shake itself"; it is wielded by a hand. This further illustrates the complete lack of independent action by the instrument, emphasizing that Assyria, like the rod, is merely an object moved by a greater power, entirely subject to its will.
* **"or as if the staff should lift up [itself, as if it were] no wood."**: The final analogy reiterates the point, emphasizing the inert nature of the instrument. A staff, being "no wood" (i.e., just wood, an inanimate object), cannot lift itself. It has no inherent life, will, or power. This powerfully contrasts the material reality of the tool with the implied self-exaltation, driving home the profound theological truth that Assyria, despite its might, was nothing more than an inert instrument in the hand of the sovereign God, incapable of independent action or self-promotion.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 10:15 is rich in literary devices that amplify its message and underscore its profound theological truth. The entire verse is structured as a series of **Rhetorical Questions**, designed not to elicit an answer, but to provoke thought and highlight the undeniable absurdity of Assyria's pride. These questions assume an obvious negative answer, thereby powerfully condemning the empire's self-exaltation. The prophet employs vivid **Analogy** and **Simile** by comparing the formidable Assyrian Empire to common, inanimate tools such as an axe, a saw, a rod, and a staff. The explicit phrase "as if" marks these similes, drawing a direct parallel between the tools' complete dependence on their wielder and Assyria's absolute dependence on God. Furthermore, **Personification** is central to the verse's impact. The inanimate tools are given human attributes: the axe "boasts," the saw "magnifies itself," and the rod and staff "shake" or "lift themselves." This personification vividly illustrates the preposterous nature of Assyria's arrogance, making their pride appear as illogical and foolish as a hammer claiming credit for building a house. The cumulative effect of these devices is to underscore God's absolute sovereignty and the utter folly of human pride.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 10:15 serves as a foundational text for understanding divine sovereignty and the nature of human agency in relation to God's ultimate control. It unequivocally asserts that God is the supreme orchestrator of history, using nations and individuals as His instruments to accomplish His purposes, even when they are unaware or actively rebellious against Him. This truth profoundly humbles all human power, reminding us that no earthly authority, military might, or personal achievement operates outside the purview of God's sovereign will. The verse exposes the profound theological error of pride, demonstrating that self-exaltation is not only an affront to God but also a fundamental misunderstanding of one's place in the divine order. Just as a tool's effectiveness is entirely derived from the craftsman, so too is any power or success granted to humanity ultimately from God, demanding a posture of humility and gratitude.

* [Daniel 4:35](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"): "All the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, 'What have you done?'"
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Precedes Destruction"): "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
* [Romans 9:20-21](/romans/9-20-21 "Romans 9:20-21 - The Potter and the Clay"): "But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, 'Why have you made me like this?' Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use?"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 10:15 offers timeless wisdom for both individuals and nations, challenging us to cultivate a profound sense of humility and acknowledge God's sovereign hand in all aspects of life. In a world that often celebrates self-made success and human achievement, this verse calls us to remember that any talent, strength, or influence we possess is a gift from God, and any accomplishments are ultimately enabled by His grace. It demands that we guard against the insidious sin of pride, which blinds us to our dependence on God and can lead to spiritual and personal downfall. Whether in personal triumphs, professional successes, or national prosperity, the call is to attribute glory to God, recognizing that we are merely instruments in His hands, designed to fulfill His purposes. Embracing this truth fosters a spirit of gratitude, dependence, and worship, aligning our hearts with the one true Master of all creation and empowering us to live lives that genuinely honor Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to take credit for accomplishments that are ultimately God's doing, rather than acknowledging His sovereign hand?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a posture of humility and dependence on God, even when I feel strong, successful, or self-sufficient?**
* **What are the dangers of national or collective pride in today's world, and how might this verse speak prophetically to them?**
* **How does understanding God's absolute sovereignty, as depicted in this verse, impact my view of difficult circumstances, the actions of others, or even perceived injustices?**

### FAQ
**Why does God use a nation like Assyria, known for its brutality, as His instrument?**

Answer: God, in His absolute sovereignty, can use any means or instrument, even ungodly ones, to accomplish His righteous purposes. In this case, Assyria served as God's "rod of anger" ([Isaiah 10:5](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5 - Assyria, God's Rod of Anger")) to chastise Israel and Judah for their disobedience and idolatry. This demonstrates God's justice and His power to bring about His will through nations that may not even acknowledge Him. While Assyria acted out of its own wicked intentions and pride, God supernaturally directed their actions to fulfill His divine plan, ultimately holding them accountable for their own sin, as seen in [Habakkuk 1:5-6](/habakkuk/1-5-6 "Habakkuk 1:5-6 - God Raises Up the Chaldeans") and [Isaiah 10:12](/isaiah/10-12 "God Will Punish Assyria's Arrogance")). This paradox highlights the mysterious yet perfect nature of divine providence.

**What is the primary sin Isaiah 10:15 addresses, and why is it so serious?**

Answer: The primary sin addressed is **pride** or **arrogance**, specifically the self-exaltation of a creature against its Creator. Isaiah 10:15 illustrates the absurdity of a tool boasting against its wielder, directly rebuking Assyria for attributing its conquests to its own power and wisdom rather than acknowledging God's sovereign hand. This sin is serious because it fundamentally denies God's ultimate authority and sovereignty, placing human will and strength above divine power. It is a form of idolatry, where the creature elevates itself to the position of the Creator, usurping the glory due only to God. Scripture consistently warns against pride, stating that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" ([James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Opposes the Proud")), underscoring its destructive nature in the spiritual realm.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 10:15, while directly rebuking Assyrian pride, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the stark contrast between human arrogance and the unparalleled humility of Jesus Christ. Assyria, a mere tool, boasted against its divine Wielder; Christ, the very Son of God, the ultimate Master and Creator through whom "all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible" ([Colossians 1:16](/colossians/1-16 "Colossians 1:16 - All Things Created By and For Him")), willingly became the ultimate instrument of God's redemptive plan. Unlike Assyria, who sought to "magnify itself" ([Isaiah 10:15](/isaiah/10-15 "Isaiah 10:15 - The Folly of the Axe Boasting")), Jesus "made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). He did not act independently but declared, "The Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing" ([John 5:19](/john/5-19 "John 5:19 - Jesus Does What He Sees the Father Doing")), perfectly embodying the obedient instrument. He was the "rod" of God's judgment against sin, yet He willingly allowed Himself to be "lifted up" on the cross, not in self-exaltation, but for the salvation of humanity, as foreshadowed in [John 3:14](/john/3-14 "John 3:14 - The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up"). Thus, Isaiah 10:15 not only condemns the folly of human pride but also implicitly magnifies the unparalleled glory of Christ's humble submission, through whom God's ultimate purpose of salvation was perfectly accomplished, securing victory over sin and death.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 9:20

Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus?

Romans 9:21

Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

Isaiah 45:9

Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! [Let] the potsherd [strive] with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?

Isaiah 10:5

¶ O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation.

Isaiah 29:16

Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?

Ezekiel 28:9

Wilt thou yet say before him that slayeth thee, I [am] God? but thou [shalt be] a man, and no God, in the hand of him that slayeth thee.

Jeremiah 51:20

Thou [art] my battle axe [and] weapons of war: for with thee will I break in pieces the nations, and with thee will I destroy kingdoms;