Isaiah 28:16

KJV

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}, Behold, I lay {H3245} in Zion {H6726} for a foundation a stone {H68}, a tried {H976} stone {H68}, a precious {H3368} corner {H6438} stone, a sure {H3245} foundation {H4143}: he that believeth {H539} shall not make haste {H2363}.

Complete Jewish Bible

therefore here is what Adonai ELOHIM says: "Look, I am laying in Tziyon a tested stone, a costly cornerstone, a firm foundation-stone; he who trusts will not rush here and there.

Berean Standard Bible

So this is what the Lord GOD says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken.

American Standard Version

therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner-stone of sure foundation: he that believeth shall not be in haste.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 28:16 stands as a pivotal prophetic declaration amidst pronouncements of judgment against Judah and Ephraim's spiritual decline. It reveals God's steadfast commitment to establish an unshakeable foundation in Zion—a divinely chosen, tested, and precious cornerstone. This stone guarantees stability and security for all who place their trust in it, assuring them that they will not be put to shame or driven to panic, in stark contrast to the unstable human alliances and false securities of the time.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 28 opens with a severe indictment against the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Ephraim), particularly its leaders, for their spiritual drunkenness, pride, and moral corruption. They are depicted as stumbling in judgment and despising God's instruction (Isaiah 28:1-13). The prophet then turns to Jerusalem's leaders, who are equally guilty of mocking God's word and relying on a "covenant with death" and a "pact with Sheol" (Isaiah 28:14-15), signifying their trust in deceptive political alliances rather than the Lord. Within this bleak landscape of human failure and impending judgment, verse 16 emerges as a profound divine interjection, shifting from human instability to God's sovereign, unshakeable provision. It serves as a stark contrast to the "refuge of lies" and "hidden place" of falsehood that the leaders of Jerusalem had made for themselves (Isaiah 28:15). Following this promise, the prophecy returns to the theme of judgment, indicating that God will sweep away their false refuges with a "hail" and "overflowing scourge" (Isaiah 28:17-18), emphasizing that only His foundation will endure.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Isaiah 28 is set against the tumultuous backdrop of the 8th century BCE, a period marked by the rising Assyrian Empire's dominance. Both the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) and the Southern Kingdom of Judah faced immense pressure to form alliances with powerful nations like Egypt or Assyria, rather than trusting in the Lord for their security. Ephraim, having already been conquered by Assyria in 722 BCE (implied by the "crown of pride" that "shall be a fading flower" in [Isaiah 28:1](/isaiah/28-1)), serves as a cautionary tale. Judah, though still standing, was prone to similar errors, seeking political treaties for protection. The "stone" laid "in Zion" (Jerusalem) would have resonated deeply with a people whose identity and security were often tied to the physical city and its temple. Architecturally, a cornerstone was vital for the integrity and alignment of a building, symbolizing stability and foundational importance. The cultural understanding of building and foundations would have made the metaphor immediately comprehensible, highlighting the stark difference between humanly constructed, fragile defenses and God's divinely established, eternal security.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the **sovereignty and faithfulness of God** as the ultimate provider of security, contrasting sharply with human folly and self-reliance. While human plans and alliances prove to be fleeting and deceptive, God's plan is eternal and sure. Secondly, it introduces the critical theme of the **divine foundation**, which becomes a recurring motif, particularly in New Testament Christology. This "tried stone" and "sure foundation" points to God's singular, reliable provision for salvation and stability, whether for the nation of Israel or, ultimately, for all humanity. Thirdly, the verse highlights the **importance of faith and trust**. The promise that "he that believeth shall not make haste" emphasizes that true security and peace are found not in frantic human efforts or political maneuvering, but in quiet confidence and patient reliance upon God's established foundation. This theme resonates with other calls to trust in God found throughout Isaiah, such as in [Isaiah 30:15](/isaiah/30-15 "Isaiah 30:15 - In quietness and trust shall be your strength").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Stone (Hebrew, _ʼeben'_):** This common Hebrew word (H68) refers to a literal stone, but in this context, it is imbued with profound symbolic meaning. It represents something tangible, solid, and foundational. Its qualities ("tried," "precious," "corner," "sure foundation") elevate it beyond a mere building material to a divinely appointed entity that provides ultimate stability and security, contrasting with the shifting sands of human endeavors.
* **Lay/Foundation (Hebrew, _yâçad'_):** The root verb (H3245) means "to set," "to found," or "to establish." Its use here emphasizes God's active, intentional, and sovereign role in establishing this foundation. It is not a human construct but a divine initiative, signifying permanence and unshakeable purpose. The related noun `mûwçâd` (H4143), also derived from `yâçad`, reinforces the concept of a firm and secure base.
* **Believeth (Hebrew, _ʼâman'_):** This verb (H539) is the root of the Hebrew word for "amen" and carries a rich semantic range: to build up, support, foster, be firm, faithful, trustworthy, or certain. To "believe" in this context means to place one's full trust, reliance, and confidence in the divine foundation. It implies a steadfast, enduring faith that leads to stability and quiet assurance, rather than panic or instability.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD,"**: This opening phrase asserts the divine authority and certainty of the following declaration. It signals that what follows is not human speculation or prophecy, but a direct, authoritative word from the sovereign God (Adonai YHWH, H136, H3069), lending immense weight and infallibility to the promise.
* **"Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone,"**: God Himself, using the first-person "I," declares His active role in establishing this foundational stone. The location "in Zion" (Jerusalem) points to the historical and spiritual center of God's covenant people, indicating that this divine provision is central to His redemptive plan for His chosen nation. The "stone" is explicitly designated as a "foundation."
* **"a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation:"**: This clause elaborates on the intrinsic qualities of the divine stone. It is "tried" (H976), meaning tested and proven reliable; "precious" (H3368), indicating its invaluable worth and honor; and a "corner [stone]" (H6438), signifying its essential role in aligning and securing the entire structure. The repetition of "a sure foundation" (H3245, H4143) emphasizes its absolute stability and permanence, contrasting with the unstable foundations of human alliances.
* **"he that believeth shall not make haste."**: This final clause describes the blessed outcome for those who respond to God's provision with faith. To "make haste" (H2363) implies panic, agitation, rushing into ill-advised actions, or ultimately being put to shame. Conversely, those who trust in this secure foundation will experience steadfastness, quiet confidence, and enduring peace, knowing they will not be disappointed or overthrown, regardless of surrounding turmoil.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 28:16 is rich with **Symbolism**, primarily through the image of the "stone." This stone is not merely a literal object but a powerful symbol representing God's ultimate provision for security and salvation, which in Christian theology is fully realized in Jesus Christ. The description of the stone as "tried," "precious," and a "corner [stone]" further imbues it with symbolic meaning of proven reliability, invaluable worth, and foundational importance. There is a strong **Contrast** evident in the verse and its surrounding context. It stands as a beacon of stability and hope against the backdrop of human instability, spiritual drunkenness, and reliance on false, shifting foundations described in the preceding verses. This juxtaposition highlights the futility of human efforts apart from God and the absolute reliability of His divine plan. Furthermore, the entire passage employs **Metaphor**, particularly in its depiction of the leaders as "drunkards" (Isaiah 28:7-8) and their alliances as a "covenant with death" (Isaiah 28:15). The "stone" itself functions as a central metaphor for divine steadfastness and security.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 28:16 is a profound theological statement on God's unwavering commitment to His redemptive plan, even in the face of human rebellion and apostasy. It establishes the principle that true security and stability are found solely in God's divinely appointed foundation, not in human strength, wisdom, or alliances. This "tried stone" signifies God's own tested and proven faithfulness, His preciousness in providing salvation, and His role as the ultimate cornerstone upon which all genuine hope and spiritual structure must rest. The promise that "he that believeth shall not make haste" underscores the peace and steadfastness that come from trusting in this divine provision, contrasting with the panic and chaos that characterize those who rely on fleeting worldly securities.

* [Psalm 118:22](/psalms/118-22 "Psalm 118:22 - The stone the builders rejected")
* [Matthew 21:42](/matthew/21-42 "Matthew 21:42 - Jesus references the rejected stone")
* [Romans 10:11](/romans/10-11 "Romans 10:11 - Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world characterized by constant change, economic uncertainties, social unrest, and personal anxieties, Isaiah 28:16 offers an anchor for the soul. It calls us to examine where we are truly building our lives and placing our trust. Are we relying on fleeting trends, personal achievements, financial security, or human relationships as our ultimate foundation? Or are we building upon the "tried stone," the "sure foundation" that God Himself has laid? This verse invites us to shift our gaze from the instability of human endeavors to the unshakeable steadfastness of God's provision. To "not make haste" means to cultivate a spirit of patient endurance, confident waiting, and deep peace, even amidst life's storms. It implies resisting the urge to panic, to rush into ill-conceived solutions, or to be swayed by every wind of doctrine or fear. Instead, it encourages a quiet confidence that comes from knowing our eternal security is grounded in God's unchanging character and His perfect plan, allowing us to live with purpose and calm, knowing we will never be put to shame.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "foundations" in your life are currently causing you to "make haste" or feel insecure?**
* **How does trusting in God's "sure foundation" change your approach to difficult circumstances or uncertain futures?**
* **In what practical ways can you demonstrate a "not making haste" faith in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "corner stone" in this verse?**

Answer: The "corner stone" (Hebrew: `pinnâh`, H6438) was the most crucial stone in ancient Near Eastern architecture. It was typically the first stone laid, carefully chosen, perfectly cut, and precisely set at the corner of a building. Its exact placement determined the alignment and stability of the entire structure. Therefore, calling this stone a "precious corner [stone]" emphasizes its invaluable importance, its role in providing structural integrity, and its function as the standard by which the rest of the building is aligned. Theologically, it signifies that God's chosen foundation is essential for the proper construction and enduring stability of His spiritual house. This concept is later applied to Christ, who is the [chief cornerstone](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ as the chief cornerstone") of the Church.

**How does "he that believeth shall not make haste" relate to modern life?**

Answer: The phrase "shall not make haste" (Hebrew: `chûwsh`, H2363) conveys the idea of not being agitated, panicked, or put to shame. In modern life, this translates to finding peace and stability amidst chaos. When we build our lives on God's sure foundation, we are freed from the frantic anxiety and impulsive decisions that often characterize a world without a firm anchor. It means we can approach challenges with calm confidence, patiently wait for God's timing, and trust in His provision, knowing that our ultimate security is guaranteed. This contrasts sharply with the "hustle culture" and the constant pressure to react quickly, often without wisdom, that pervades contemporary society. It's an invitation to a life of quiet trust, as seen in [Proverbs 19:2](/proverbs/19-2 "Proverbs 19:2 - Haste without knowledge is not good").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 28:16 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "stone" laid by the Lord GOD in Zion is universally understood in the New Testament as a direct prophecy of Christ Himself. He is the divinely chosen, "tried stone" who endured the testing of the cross and proved His perfect faithfulness and reliability (see [1 Peter 2:4-8](/1_peter/2-4 "1 Peter 2:4-8 - Christ as the living stone and cornerstone")). As the "precious corner [stone]," Jesus is not only invaluable but also the essential foundation upon which God's spiritual temple, the Church, is built, aligning every part of it (as seen in [Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the cornerstone of the Church")). He is the "sure foundation" (as articulated by Paul in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Jesus Christ is the only foundation")), the only one capable of bearing the weight of human sin and providing eternal security. Consequently, the promise that "he that believeth shall not make haste" is fulfilled in all who place their faith in Christ. Those who trust in Him will never be disappointed, put to shame, or driven to panic by the uncertainties of life or the final judgment. Instead, they find eternal rest and steadfast peace in the one who is the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). He is the secure rock upon which believers can build their lives, confident that they will stand firm against any storm ([Matthew 7:24-25](/matthew/7-24-25 "Matthew 7:24-25 - Building on the rock")).

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

Psalms 118:22

The stone [which] the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner.

Acts 4:11

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Acts 4:12

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

1 Peter 2:6

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

1 Peter 2:8

And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, [even to them] which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

Luke 20:17

And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?

Luke 20:18

Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.