Isaiah 2:17

KJV

And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low: and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the loftiness {H1365} of man {H120} shall be bowed down {H7817}, and the haughtiness {H7312} of men {H582} shall be made low {H8213}: and the LORD {H3068} alone shall be exalted {H7682} in that day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The pride of man will be bowed down, the arrogance of men will be humiliated, and when that day comes, ADONAI alone will be exalted.

Berean Standard Bible

So the pride of man will be brought low, and the loftiness of men will be humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day,

American Standard Version

And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be brought low; and Jehovah alone shall be exalted in that day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 2:17 delivers a profound prophetic declaration concerning the ultimate humbling of human pride and the singular, supreme exaltation of God. It serves as a stark warning against self-reliance and arrogance, proclaiming that in the decisive "Day of the LORD," every form of human loftiness and haughtiness will be brought low, unequivocally establishing the Lord's unparalleled sovereignty and glory as the sole object of worship and authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 2:17 is strategically positioned within a broader prophetic oracle (Isaiah 2:6-22) that stands in stark contrast to the glorious eschatological vision of God's future kingdom of peace and universal worship presented in the opening verses of the chapter, specifically [the mountain of the Lord's house](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House"). Following this initial vision of divine exaltation, the prophet Isaiah abruptly shifts to a stern rebuke of Judah's spiritual decay, pervasive pride, and widespread idolatry. The verses immediately preceding Isaiah 2:17 detail various manifestations of this pride, including reliance on foreign alliances, the accumulation of vast wealth, and widespread idolatry, as seen in [Judah's idolatry and foreign alliances](/isaiah/2-7-8 "Isaiah 2:7-8 - Judah's Idolatry and Foreign Alliances"). The repeated pronouncement in [Isaiah 2:12](/isaiah/2-12 "Isaiah 2:12 - The Day of the Lord's Judgment on the Proud"), "For the day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low," sets the stage for the subsequent enumeration of all high and exalted things—from the towering cedars of Lebanon to the fortified walls of cities—that will be humbled. Verse 17 serves as a powerful summary and climactic statement of this overarching theme: the comprehensive abasement of all human grandeur and self-exaltation in the face of divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Isaiah 2 was delivered during a period of relative prosperity and political stability in Judah, likely during the reigns of Uzziah or Jotham (c. 780-732 BCE). This era often fostered national self-confidence, material accumulation, and a dangerous sense of self-sufficiency, leading to widespread pride and a departure from covenant faithfulness. The cultural landscape was marked by the pervasive influence of surrounding pagan nations, resulting in syncretism and idolatry, which Isaiah vehemently condemns throughout his ministry. Furthermore, ancient Near Eastern nations frequently boasted in their military might, impregnable fortified cities, and accumulated treasures, viewing these as ultimate sources of security and status. Isaiah's message directly challenges this worldly worldview, asserting that true security and ultimate authority reside solely with Yahweh, not in human achievements, material possessions, or military prowess. The "Day of the LORD" concept, while drawing on ancient Near Eastern "day of battle" motifs, is profoundly reinterpreted by the prophets as a divinely appointed time of reckoning, often involving cosmic signs and the overthrow of human empires, culminating in God's ultimate triumph and the establishment of His righteous rule.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 2:17 encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes prevalent throughout the book of Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. A primary theme is **Divine Judgment on Human Pride**, which is consistently portrayed as the root of many sins, including idolatry, injustice, and self-reliance. The verse directly addresses the issue of human arrogance, whether it manifests as self-sufficiency, reliance on worldly power, or spiritual haughtiness, affirming that God's judgment is an inevitable force that will humble all forms of human loftiness. This resonates deeply with the biblical principle found in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction"), "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." Another crucial theme is **God's Ultimate Sovereignty and Exaltation**. The core message of the verse is that only the LORD is worthy of ultimate exaltation. In a world where humans constantly seek to elevate themselves or their creations, this prophecy asserts God's absolute authority and unique right to glory, especially in contrast to the fleeting nature of human power and glory, a theme powerfully echoed in [Psalm 46:10](/psalm/46-10 "Psalm 46:10 - Be Still, and Know That I Am God"), "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." Finally, the concept of **The Day of the LORD** is central, referring to a future, decisive intervention by God in history, bringing judgment upon the wicked and establishing His righteous rule. It is a day of reckoning where divine justice prevails and God's character is fully revealed, marking a turning point where God's unique glory is undeniably displayed, as also depicted in [Joel 2:31](/joel/2-31 "Joel 2:31 - The Great and Terrible Day of the LORD").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Loftiness (Hebrew, _gabhûwth'_):** From H1365, meaning pride or loftiness. This term denotes an elevated state, but in this context, it carries a negative connotation, referring to human arrogance, self-exaltation, and an inflated sense of importance that stands in opposition to God. It describes an internal disposition of pride that manifests in outward display and action.
* **Haughtiness (Hebrew, _rûwm'_):** From H7312, meaning elevation or elation. Similar to "loftiness," this term emphasizes the proud and elevated bearing of humanity, often implying a disdain for God or others. It speaks to the insolence and arrogance that comes from a position of perceived strength or superiority, whether social, economic, or military.
* **Exalted (Hebrew, _sâgab'_):** From H7682, a primitive root meaning to be (causatively, make) lofty, especially inaccessible; by implication, safe, strong. This word describes God's inherent and rightful elevation, His supreme power, and His unassailable position of authority. Unlike human "loftiness" or "haughtiness," God's exaltation is not a product of pride but an expression of His divine nature and unique sovereignty. When God is "exalted," it means His unparalleled majesty and power are clearly demonstrated and acknowledged.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down,"**: This clause declares the inevitable humbling of human pride and arrogance. "Loftiness" (H1365, _gabhûwth_) refers to the elevated, proud disposition of humanity, a self-exaltation that defies God. "Man" (H120, _ʼâdâm_) represents humanity in general, emphasizing the universal scope of this judgment. The phrase "shall be bowed down" (H7817, _shâchach_) signifies a forced submission, a bringing low, or a humbling. It implies that human self-exaltation, no matter how grand or entrenched, will be forcefully brought to an end by divine action, often through judgment.
* **"and the haughtiness of men shall be made low:"**: This second clause reinforces the message of the first through synonymous parallelism, intensifying the declaration of human abasement. "Haughtiness" (H7312, _rûwm_) emphasizes the elevated and arrogant bearing of humanity, often implying disdain or insolence. "Men" (H582, _ʼĕnôwsh_) is another term for humanity, often emphasizing human mortality and frailty, which stands in stark contrast to their pride. "Shall be made low" (H8213, _shâphêl_) means to be depressed, abased, or brought to a humble state. Together, these two clauses powerfully convey the comprehensive nature of God's judgment on all forms of human self-exaltation and pride.
* **"and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day."**: This final, climactic clause presents the ultimate outcome and purpose of the humbling of humanity. "The LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_) refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, emphasizing His unique and self-existent nature. The word "alone" underscores His singular supremacy and exclusive right to ultimate worship and authority. "Shall be exalted" (H7682, _sâgab_) means to be lifted high, made inaccessible, or supremely glorified. This exaltation is not a result of human effort but a divine act, demonstrating God's absolute sovereignty and unchallengeable majesty. "In that day" (H3117, _yôwm_) points to a specific, future time of divine intervention and judgment, when God's glory will be undeniably revealed and acknowledged as supreme by all creation.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 2:17 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its message with impactful clarity. **Parallelism** is prominently evident in the first two clauses ("the loftiness of man shall be bowed down" and "the haughtiness of men shall be made low"), where synonymous phrases reinforce the central idea of human humbling. This use of parallelism adds emphasis, rhythm, and a sense of inevitability to the prophetic declaration. This is immediately followed by a sharp **antithesis** or **contrast**, pitting the abasement of humanity against the singular exaltation of the LORD. This stark juxtaposition highlights the fundamental theological truth that God's glory is revealed precisely when human pride is brought low, emphasizing His unique sovereignty. The phrase "in that day" functions as a key **prophetic marker**, signaling a future, decisive intervention by God, often associated with judgment and the establishment of His kingdom. The overall tone is one of **declarative prophecy**, a firm and unwavering statement of divine intention and outcome, leaving no doubt about the ultimate triumph of God's sovereignty over all human endeavors.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 2:17 serves as a foundational text for understanding the biblical emphasis on divine sovereignty and the profound dangers of human pride. It articulates a core theological principle: true and lasting exaltation belongs solely to God, and any human attempt at self-exaltation is ultimately futile and will be met with divine judgment. This verse underscores the eschatological hope that God will ultimately set all things right, humbling the proud and lifting up the humble, thereby demonstrating His unique glory to all creation. It reveals that God's judgment is not merely punitive but redemptive in its ultimate purpose, clearing the way for His rightful reign and the recognition of His unparalleled majesty. The "Day of the LORD" is thus a time of both reckoning and revelation, where God's character as the supreme and only worthy object of worship is fully unveiled and universally acknowledged.

* [Proverbs 29:23](/proverbs/29-23 "Proverbs 29:23 - A Man's Pride Will Bring Him Low")
* [Matthew 23:12](/matthew/23-12 "Matthew 23:12 - Whoever Exalts Himself Will Be Humbled")
* [Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - God Exalted Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 2:17 calls believers to a profound posture of humility and reverent worship. In a world that constantly encourages self-promotion, self-reliance, and the relentless pursuit of status and worldly recognition, this verse serves as a powerful counter-cultural reminder that true significance, lasting glory, and genuine security are found not in human achievement or pride, but in acknowledging and exalting God alone. It challenges us to examine our own hearts for subtle and overt forms of pride—whether intellectual, material, spiritual, or relational—and to actively surrender them to God's sovereign will. Living out this truth means cultivating a spirit of radical dependence on God, giving Him credit for our successes, and finding our identity and worth in His grace rather than in our own accomplishments or the accolades of others. It also means recognizing that the fleeting glories of this world will ultimately fade, while God's glory endures forever, prompting us to invest our lives in what truly matters for His eternal kingdom and purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to rely on my own strength, wisdom, or achievements rather than God's sovereignty and provision?**
* **How does the concept of the "Day of the LORD" shape my understanding of divine justice, the end of history, and God's ultimate plan for creation?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a deeper sense of humility and to more consistently exalt God alone in my daily thoughts, words, and actions?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Day of the LORD" mentioned in Isaiah 2:17?**

Answer: The "Day of the LORD" is a recurring prophetic theme throughout the Old Testament, referring to a specific, decisive period when God intervenes powerfully in human history. It is often depicted as a time of divine judgment upon the wicked and unrighteous, but also as a time of salvation and vindication for God's faithful people. In Isaiah 2, it specifically signifies a future day when God will humble all human pride, idolatry, and self-sufficiency, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty and unique glory. This concept is not necessarily a single 24-hour period but a divinely appointed era or event where God's justice and power are fully revealed, leading to a new order where He alone is exalted, as further elaborated in passages like [Amos 5:18-20](/amos/5-18 "Amos 5:18-20 - Woe to Those Who Desire the Day of the LORD") and [Zephaniah 1:14-18](/zephaniah/1-14 "Zephaniah 1:14-18 - The Great and Terrible Day of the LORD"). The "Day of the LORD" is thus a comprehensive term for God's decisive intervention to establish His righteous rule and manifest His glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 2:17 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament "Day of the LORD" often spoke of a future judgment, the New Testament reveals that this day has dawned in Christ's first coming and will culminate in His glorious second advent. Jesus, though eternally God, did not cling to His divine status or use it for self-exaltation but "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). His entire earthly life was the epitome of humility, consistently deferring all glory to the Father and seeking only His will ([John 5:19](/john/5-19 "John 5:19 - The Son Can Do Nothing of Himself")). It was through His ultimate act of humility—His obedient death on the cross—that human pride was definitively exposed and condemned, and God's justice and redemptive love were supremely demonstrated. Paradoxically, it is precisely because of Christ's unparalleled humility and obedience unto death that "God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). Thus, in Christ, the loftiness and haughtiness of man are bowed down through His atoning work, and the LORD alone is eternally exalted, not only through the Father's sovereign act but also through the Son's perfect obedience and ultimate triumph over sin, death, and all human rebellion, establishing His eternal kingdom where He reigns supreme, as prophesied in [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become the Kingdom of Our Lord and of His Christ").

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

Jeremiah 48:29

We have heard the pride of Moab, (he is exceeding proud) his loftiness, and his arrogancy, and his pride, and the haughtiness of his heart.

Jeremiah 48:30

I know his wrath, saith the LORD; but [it shall] not [be] so; his lies shall not so effect [it].

Ezekiel 28:2

Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart [is] lifted up, and thou hast said, I [am] a God, I sit [in] the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou [art] a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:

Ezekiel 28:7

Behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness.

Isaiah 2:11

The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.

Isaiah 13:11

And I will punish the world for [their] evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.