Isaiah 27:9

KJV

By this therefore shall the iniquity of Jacob be purged; and this [is] all the fruit to take away his sin; when he maketh all the stones of the altar as chalkstones that are beaten in sunder, the groves and images shall not stand up.

KJV (with Strong's)

By this {H2063} therefore shall the iniquity {H5771} of Jacob {H3290} be purged {H3722}; and this is all the fruit {H6529} to take away {H5493} his sin {H2403}; when he maketh {H7760} all the stones {H68} of the altar {H4196} as chalkstones {H1615} that are beaten in sunder {H5310}, the groves {H842} and images {H2553} shall not stand up {H6965}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the iniquity of Ya'akov is atoned for by this, and removing his sin produces this result: he chops up all the altar stones like chalk - sacred poles and sun-pillars stand no more.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore Jacob’s guilt will be atoned for, and the full fruit of the removal of his sin will be this: When he makes all the altar stones like crushed bits of chalk, no Asherah poles or incense altars will remain standing.

American Standard Version

Therefore by this shall the iniquity of Jacob be forgiven, and this is all the fruit of taking away his sin: that he maketh all the stones of the altar as chalkstones that are beaten in sunder, so that the Asherim and the sun-images shall rise no more.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 27:9 powerfully declares God's redemptive purpose for Jacob (Israel), asserting that divine judgment and discipline are the necessary means by which the nation's deep-seated iniquity and sin will be thoroughly purged. This cleansing is not merely an act of forgiveness but a profound, transformative process, tangibly evidenced by the complete dismantling of all forms of idolatry—symbolized by the pulverization of pagan altars and the eradication of Asherah poles ("groves") and sun-images. The verse underscores that this forceful removal of false worship is the essential "fruit" of true repentance and the pathway to a restored, unhindered covenant relationship with the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 27:9 is strategically placed within a section often referred to as Isaiah's "Little Apocalypse" (chapters 24-27), which broadly outlines God's universal judgment on the earth and His ultimate restoration of His covenant people. Specifically, Chapter 27 shifts focus to the future of Israel, depicting a period of divine discipline designed to refine and purify the nation, culminating in their restoration. The phrase "By this therefore" in verse 9 directly references the refining judgments and chastisements detailed in the preceding verses and chapters, particularly the "threshing" and "sifting" imagery of [Isaiah 27:7-8](/isaiah/27-7-8 "Isaiah 27:7-8 - God's Discipline and Mercy"). This verse serves as a pivotal interpretive key, explaining the ultimate redemptive purpose behind the divine discipline—to remove the nation's sin and idolatry, leading to a renewed and pure covenant relationship, a recurring theme throughout [Isaiah's prophecies](/isaiah/1 "The Book of Isaiah - Prophecies of Judgment and Salvation").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israel's history was tragically characterized by a persistent struggle with idolatry, a direct and grievous violation of their covenant with Yahweh, as explicitly commanded in [Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3-5 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First Commandments"). The worship of Canaanite deities like Baal and Asherah was deeply entrenched, often incorporating "high places," altars, cultic poles ("groves" or Asherim), and sun-pillars ("images" or _chammanim_). These practices represented a syncretistic faith, blending Yahwism with pagan rituals, which God repeatedly condemned through His prophets. The vivid imagery of altars being "beaten in sunder" and "groves and images" not standing up reflects the physical manifestations of this spiritual rebellion and the necessary, forceful eradication of such practices for Israel to return to exclusive devotion to the Lord. This was not merely a religious preference but a matter of national survival and covenant faithfulness, as evidenced by the repeated calls for reform by righteous kings like [Hezekiah](/2_kings/18 "2 Kings 18 - King Hezekiah's Reforms") and [Josiah](/2_kings/23 "2 Kings 23 - King Josiah's Reforms").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes central to Isaiah's prophetic message and broader biblical theology. Firstly, the **Purging of Sin and Iniquity** is paramount; God's ultimate goal is to "purge" and "take away" the deep-seated "iniquity" and "sin" of Jacob. This signifies a comprehensive cleansing, not just superficial forgiveness, but a profound removal of the very root of rebellion and disobedience that plagued Israel. Secondly, the **Destruction of Idolatry** is presented as the tangible evidence and necessary outcome of this purging. The vivid imagery of smashing altars and felling Asherah poles underscores that true spiritual purification demands the complete abandonment of anything that competes for God's rightful place in the hearts of His people. This aligns with the divine command given in [Deuteronomy 12:3](/deuteronomy/12-3 "Deuteronomy 12:3 - Destroying Pagan Places of Worship"). Finally, the verse highlights the **Fruit of Repentance and Discipline**; the eradication of idols is described as the "fruit" of the process by which sin is removed. This implies that genuine repentance and the removal of sin are not passive events but are demonstrated by concrete, visible actions—the dismantling of anything that hinders complete allegiance to God. This principle resonates with the New Testament teaching that [true repentance bears visible fruit](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - Bearing Fruit Worthy of Repentance").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **iniquity (Hebrew, _ʻâvôn'_):** This term (H5771) denotes perversity, moral evil, and its associated guilt or punishment. It implies a twisting or deviation from God's righteous path, encompassing both the act of sin and the consequences that flow from it. In Isaiah 27:9, it refers to the deep-seated moral corruption and rebellious nature of Jacob (Israel) that requires divine intervention for purification.
* **purged (Hebrew, _kâphar'_):** The root word (H3722) means "to cover," specifically with bitumen, but figuratively, it signifies to expiate, condone, placate, or cancel. It is the verb from which the concept of "atonement" derives. Here, it indicates a divine act of cleansing and removal of sin, making reconciliation possible by covering or neutralizing the offense, thereby restoring a right relationship.
* **chalkstones (Hebrew, _gir'_):** This word (H1615) refers to lime, derived from being burned in a kiln. The imagery of altars being reduced to "chalkstones that are beaten in sunder" vividly portrays the complete pulverization and utter destruction of these idolatrous structures, rendering them useless and unrecognizable, much like soft, crumbling lime. This emphasizes the thoroughness of God's judgment against idolatry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"By this therefore shall the iniquity of Jacob be purged;":** This opening clause establishes the divine purpose of the preceding judgments and disciplines. "By this" (H2063, _zôʼth_) points to the refining process God is enacting, a direct consequence of His disciplinary actions. The "iniquity of Jacob" (Israel) is the primary target, indicating the deep-seated moral perversity and rebellion that needs to be addressed. "Purged" (H3722, _kâphar_) signifies a thorough cleansing, an expiation or removal of this sin, allowing for reconciliation and restoration of the covenant relationship.
* **"and this [is] all the fruit to take away his sin;":** This phrase clarifies the outcome and evidence of the purging process. The "fruit" (H6529, _pᵉrîy_) is the tangible result or consequence, indicating that the removal of iniquity is demonstrated through specific actions. "To take away his sin" (H5493, _çûwr_; H2403, _chaṭṭâʼâh_) parallels "be purged," reinforcing the comprehensive and effective nature of this divine work of cleansing.
* **"when he maketh all the stones of the altar as chalkstones that are beaten in sunder,":** This clause vividly describes the primary "fruit" of the purging—the destruction of idolatry. "The stones of the altar" (H68, _ʼeben_; H4196, _mizbêach_) refer to pagan altars used for false worship. To be made "as chalkstones" (H1615, _gir_) that are "beaten in sunder" (H5310, _nâphats_) depicts their complete pulverization and disintegration, symbolizing the utter annihilation of the means and places of idolatrous worship.
* **"the groves and images shall not stand up.":** This final clause further specifies the objects of destruction. "Groves" (H842, _ʼăshêrâh_) refer to cultic poles or trees dedicated to the Canaanite goddess Asherah, while "images" (H2553, _chammân_) refer to sun-pillars or incense altars used in pagan worship. The declaration that they "shall not stand up" (H6965, _qûwm_) emphasizes their permanent removal and the end of their influence, signifying Israel's complete break from polytheism and return to exclusive worship of Yahweh.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 27:9 is rich with **Symbolism**, where "iniquity" and "sin" symbolize Israel's spiritual rebellion and covenant unfaithfulness, while "altars," "groves," and "images" symbolize the pervasive idolatry that corrupted the nation. The transformation of altar stones into "chalkstones that are beaten in sunder" employs **Metaphor** and **Hyperbole**, vividly illustrating the complete and irreversible destruction of pagan worship. This imagery is not merely literal but conveys the utter contempt and rejection God has for idolatry, emphasizing its utter demise. Furthermore, the verse uses **Parallelism** in its structure, linking the purging of "iniquity" with the taking away of "sin," and connecting the destruction of "altars" with the eradication of "groves and images," reinforcing the singular, comprehensive purpose of divine discipline: the complete cleansing from all forms of false worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 27:9 powerfully articulates the divine necessity of purification for true restoration, a theme deeply embedded in biblical theology. God's covenant with Israel demanded exclusive worship, and their persistent idolatry was a direct affront to His holiness and a betrayal of their relationship. This verse reveals that divine judgment is not merely punitive but profoundly redemptive, serving as a refining fire to purge the dross of sin and idolatry. The forceful removal of idols is presented as the tangible evidence of a heart truly turned back to God, signifying a complete break from syncretism and a return to unadulterated devotion. This process underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, even through severe discipline, ultimately aiming for their spiritual health and a pure relationship, where His glory is upheld.

* [Jeremiah 2:27-28](/jeremiah/2-27-28 "Jeremiah 2:27-28 - The Futility of Idols and God's Judgment")
* [Ezekiel 36:25-27](/ezekiel/36-25-27 "Ezekiel 36:25-27 - Cleansing, New Heart, and Spirit")
* [Hosea 14:8](/hosea/14-8 "Hosea 14:8 - Ephraim Renounces Idols and Returns to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 27:9 offers a profound challenge and comfort to believers today. While we may not worship physical statues, the principle of purging "iniquity" and destroying "idols" remains acutely relevant. Modern "altars" and "images" can manifest as anything that subtly or overtly takes precedence over God in our lives: career, financial security, relationships, personal comfort, reputation, self-reliance, or even the pursuit of fleeting pleasures. This verse calls for a radical self-examination, prompting us to identify what "stones of the altar" or "groves and images" in our hearts need to be "beaten in sunder" and no longer "stand up." It reminds us that God's discipline, though often painful, is always purposeful—designed for our purification and spiritual maturity, leading to a deeper, more authentic relationship with Him. True spiritual cleansing is not a passive event but requires active, often difficult, participation in dismantling anything that competes with God for ultimate allegiance, demonstrating genuine repentance through concrete action and a renewed commitment to His exclusive Lordship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "altars" or "images" in my life that compete for God's ultimate authority and devotion, demanding my time, energy, or affection above Him?**
* **How does God's discipline, even when difficult or painful, serve as a means of "purging" sin and promoting spiritual growth and purity in my own life?**
* **What tangible "fruit" of repentance can I demonstrate by actively dismantling modern "idols" or sinful patterns that hinder my complete allegiance to Christ?**
* **How can I cultivate a heart of exclusive devotion to God, ensuring that nothing "stands up" in His rightful place as the supreme object of my worship and affection?**

### FAQ
**What does "purged" mean in the context of Isaiah 27:9?**

Answer: In Isaiah 27:9, "purged" (Hebrew: _kâphar_) signifies a comprehensive act of cleansing, expiation, and removal of sin. It's not merely about forgiveness in a judicial sense, but a deep, transformative purification that eradicates the root causes of iniquity. This purging is achieved through divine discipline and judgment, which, though severe, is ultimately redemptive. It aims to restore Jacob (Israel) to a state of holiness and right relationship with God by removing the very essence of their rebellion, particularly their idolatry. This concept of divine cleansing and covering for sin is echoed throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like [Psalm 51:7](/psalms/51-7 "Psalm 51:7 - Cleanse Me With Hyssop") and the sacrificial system of the Old Testament.

**Why is the destruction of idols so central to Israel's restoration in this verse?**

Answer: The destruction of idols is central because idolatry was the primary manifestation of Israel's covenant unfaithfulness and spiritual rebellion against Yahweh. God had commanded His people to worship Him alone ([Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4-5 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema and Love for God")), yet they repeatedly turned to the gods of the surrounding nations. The physical destruction of "altars," "groves" (Asherah poles), and "images" (sun-pillars) symbolizes the complete eradication of false worship from the nation's spiritual landscape. It represents a tangible and undeniable commitment to exclusive devotion to the one true God, without any syncretistic compromise. This act of dismantling idols is presented as the "fruit" or evidence that their "iniquity" and "sin" have truly been "taken away" and that their hearts have genuinely returned to God.

**How does God's discipline lead to purification according to this verse?**

Answer: Isaiah 27:9 implies that God's discipline, referred to as "this therefore," is the very means by which Israel's iniquity will be purged. The preceding verses in Isaiah 27 and chapters 24-26 describe a period of divine judgment and refining. This verse clarifies that the purpose of such severe experiences is not merely punishment, but a transformative process designed to lead to genuine repentance and spiritual cleansing. The hardship serves to expose and eliminate the nation's sinful practices, particularly idolatry, forcing them to confront their rebellion and turn back to God. This refining process, though painful, ultimately yields the "fruit" of a purified people who have abandoned their false gods, much like a refiner's fire purifies metal, as described in [Malachi 3:3](/malachi/3-3 "Malachi 3:3 - The Refiner's Fire"). It is a testament to God's redemptive love, using even hardship to bring about holiness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 27:9, with its promise of the purging of iniquity and the destruction of idolatry, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the verse speaks of a historical cleansing for Israel, it foreshadows the spiritual purification available to all through the New Covenant. Christ is the ultimate "means" by which our iniquity is purged and our sin is taken away, not through the smashing of physical altars, but through His sacrificial death on the cross. His blood is the perfect atonement that "covers" and removes our sin, making reconciliation with God possible ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without the Shedding of Blood")). Through faith in Him, believers are cleansed from all unrighteousness ([1_john/1-7](/1-john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansed by His Blood")), and the power of sin and idolatry is broken. The "fruit" of Christ's work is not merely the destruction of physical idols, but the dismantling of spiritual idolatry in the human heart—anything that sets itself up against the knowledge of God. He enables us to turn from dead works to serve the living and true God, making us new creations where old things, including the pull of idols, pass away ([2_corinthians/5-17](/2-corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). In Christ, the "groves and images" of our hearts, whether they be self-worship, materialism, or any other competing allegiance, "shall not stand up," because He has triumphed over all powers and principalities, disarming them and making a public spectacle of them through the cross ([colossians/2-13-15](/colossians/2-13-15 "Colossians 2:13-15 - Made Alive in Christ")). He is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive discipline, bringing about true and lasting purification for His people.

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 11:27

For this [is] my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.

Isaiah 48:10

Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

Isaiah 17:8

And he shall not look to the altars, the work of his hands, neither shall respect [that] which his fingers have made, either the groves, or the images.

Daniel 11:35

And [some] of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make [them] white, [even] to the time of the end: because [it is] yet for a time appointed.

Hebrews 12:6

For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

Hebrews 12:9

Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected [us], and we gave [them] reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

Hebrews 12:11

Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.