Isaiah 30:15

KJV

For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.

KJV (with Strong's)

For thus saith {H559} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}, the Holy One {H6918} of Israel {H3478}; In returning {H7729} and rest {H5183} shall ye be saved {H3467}; in quietness {H8252} and in confidence {H985} shall be your strength {H1369}: and ye would {H14} not.

Complete Jewish Bible

For this is what Adonai ELOHIM, the Holy One of Isra'el, says: "Returning and resting is what will save you; calmness and confidence will make you strong - but you want none of this!

Berean Standard Bible

For the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, has said: “By repentance and rest you would be saved; your strength would lie in quiet confidence— but you were not willing.”

American Standard Version

For thus said the Lord Jehovah, the Holy One of Israel, In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength. And ye would not:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 30:15 delivers a profound divine counsel from the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, to His people Judah, who were facing an existential threat from Assyria. The verse articulates God's pathway to salvation and true strength: a posture of humble repentance and cessation from anxious self-reliance, leading to inner tranquility and unwavering trust in Him. Poignantly, it concludes by lamenting Judah's tragic refusal to embrace this gracious and life-giving offer, highlighting the enduring human tendency to choose self-devised solutions over divine wisdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 30:15 is situated within a series of "woes" (chapters 28-33) pronounced by the prophet Isaiah against Judah for their spiritual rebellion and political folly. Specifically, this chapter condemns Judah's decision to seek an alliance with Egypt as a defense against the encroaching Assyrian empire, rather than trusting in the Lord. The preceding verses (Isaiah 30:1-7) detail the futility and shame of relying on Egypt, while the verses immediately following (Isaiah 30:16-17) describe the consequences of their refusal, including swift pursuit by their enemies. This verse stands as a stark divine alternative to their chosen path, a direct invitation to a different kind of security.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The late 8th century BCE was a tumultuous period for the Southern Kingdom of Judah. The mighty Assyrian Empire, under kings like Tiglath-Pileser III and Sennacherib, was a dominant force, systematically conquering nations in the Near East. Judah, a small kingdom, found itself caught between the Assyrian juggernaut and the ancient power of Egypt. Culturally, it was common for smaller states to form alliances with larger powers for protection, a pragmatic approach to geopolitics. However, for Israel, a covenant nation, such alliances often signified a lack of faith in Yahweh, their divine protector. The people, and especially their leaders, were inclined to trust in chariots, horses, and foreign treaties—symbols of human strength—rather than the unseen power and faithfulness of "the Holy One of Israel."
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes found throughout Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **trust versus self-reliance**, contrasting Judah's reliance on human schemes with God's call to depend solely on Him. It underscores the **divine sovereignty** of the Lord, who is presented as the ultimate source of salvation and strength, not human ingenuity or military might. The concept of **repentance and return** (often expressed by the Hebrew word *shuv*) is central, emphasizing that true deliverance begins with turning away from sin and back to God. Finally, the verse highlights the tragic theme of **human disobedience and rejection of divine grace**, lamenting Judah's unwillingness to accept God's gracious offer, a pattern seen throughout Israel's history (e.g., [Deuteronomy 32:15-18](/deuteronomy/32-15 "Deuteronomy 32:15-18 - Israel's Rejection of God")). This refusal ultimately leads to judgment, yet God's offer here demonstrates His enduring desire for His people's well-being, even in the face of their rebellion, echoing themes found throughout [the book of Hosea](/hosea/1 "Hosea 1 - God's Steadfast Love").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **returning (Hebrew, _shûwbâh'_):** From H7729, "a return." This term signifies a turning back, a spiritual repentance or conversion. It implies a cessation of a wrong course of action and a re-orientation towards God's will and ways. It's not merely a physical return but a fundamental change of heart and direction, abandoning self-reliance and seeking God's path.
* **rest (Hebrew, _Nachath'_):** From H5183, "a descent, i.e. imposition... restfulness." This word suggests a settling down, a cessation of striving or anxious activity. It speaks to finding tranquility and peace by ceasing from one's own efforts and anxieties, and relying entirely on divine provision and sovereignty. It implies a quiet confidence that God is in control.
* **confidence (Hebrew, _biṭchâh'_):** From H985, "trust." This denotes a firm, unwavering reliance or security. It is the antithesis of fear and anxiety, indicating a settled assurance in God's faithfulness, power, and promises. This confidence is not self-generated bravado but a deep-seated conviction born from knowledge of God's character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel;":** This opening establishes the supreme authority and covenant fidelity of the speaker. "The Lord GOD" (Adonai Yahweh) combines two majestic titles for God, emphasizing His sovereign rule. "The Holy One of Israel" underscores His unique, set-apart nature and His special, covenantal relationship with His people, lending immense weight and trustworthiness to His pronouncement.
* **"In returning and rest shall ye be saved;":** This clause presents the divine condition for salvation. "Returning" (shuvah) implies repentance—a turning away from their misguided alliances and self-reliant schemes, and a turning back to God. "Rest" (nachath) suggests ceasing from their frantic, anxious efforts and settling into a posture of dependence on God. Together, these actions are the pathway to true deliverance and security, not military might or political maneuvering.
* **"in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength:":** This clause provides the parallel condition for true strength. "Quietness" (shaqat) denotes an inner tranquility and stillness, a calm composure in the face of external threats. "Confidence" (bitach) signifies a deep, unwavering trust in God's power and faithfulness. This strength is not found in outward displays of force but in an internal, spiritual fortitude derived from a peaceful, trusting reliance on God's sovereignty.
* **"and ye would not.":** This poignant, terse concluding phrase reveals the tragic reality of Judah's choice. Despite the clear, gracious, and life-giving counsel from their sovereign God, they stubbornly refused. The Hebrew word for "would not" (ʼâbâh) implies an unwillingness or refusal to consent, highlighting their deliberate rejection of God's wisdom in favor of their own flawed plans. This refusal seals their fate and underscores the theme of human rebellion.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 30:15 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Parallelism** is evident in the balanced structure of the conditions for salvation and strength: "In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength." This creates a rhythmic and memorable teaching, emphasizing the complementary nature of these virtues. A profound **contrast** is drawn between God's prescribed path of spiritual reliance and Judah's chosen path of worldly alliances, highlighting the stark difference between divine wisdom and human folly. The repeated use of the divine title, "**the Holy One of Israel**," serves as an emphatic **appellation**, grounding the counsel in God's unique character and covenant relationship, thereby reinforcing the authority and trustworthiness of the message. Finally, the concluding phrase, "and ye would not," functions as a powerful **lament** or **rebuke**, expressing the divine sorrow and disappointment over Judah's stubborn refusal, adding a deeply emotional dimension to the prophetic utterance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 30:15 stands as a timeless theological statement on the nature of divine salvation and strength, rooted in a posture of humble dependence. It underscores that true security is not found in human strategies, political alliances, or self-effort, but in turning back to God (repentance) and resting in His sovereign care. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, affirming that God alone is the ultimate deliverer and sustainer of His people. The verse highlights God's unwavering desire for His people's well-being, even when they stray, and simultaneously exposes the tragic consequences of human obstinacy and self-will. It calls believers across all generations to a radical trust that finds peace and power in stillness and confidence in God, rather than in the frantic pursuit of worldly solutions.

* [Psalm 46:10](/psalms/46-10 "Psalm 46:10 - Be Still and Know That I Am God")
* [Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")
* [Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1 "Hebrews 4:1-11 - Entering God's Rest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that constantly pressures us towards busyness, self-reliance, and external solutions, Isaiah 30:15 offers a counter-cultural and profoundly liberating truth. It challenges us to re-evaluate where we truly seek salvation and strength. Are we, like ancient Judah, prone to forging "alliances" with worldly systems, human wisdom, or our own capabilities when faced with challenges, rather than turning to God? The call to "returning and rest" invites us to a continuous posture of repentance—a turning away from our anxious striving and self-sufficiency—and a deliberate choice to cease our efforts and settle into God's provision. This leads to "quietness and confidence," an inner peace and unwavering trust that becomes our true strength, enabling us to face life's storms with serenity. This verse urges us to cultivate a spiritual discipline of stillness, trusting that God's sovereign power is more effective than any frantic human endeavor. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the tragic consequences when we, like Judah, hear God's gracious invitation but stubbornly say, "and ye would not."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on your own strength or worldly solutions rather than "returning and resting" in God?**
* **How can cultivating "quietness and confidence" in God practically manifest in your daily decisions and responses to challenges?**
* **What does it truly mean to "not" be willing to accept God's gracious offer, and what are the spiritual consequences of such refusal?**

### FAQ
**What does "the Holy One of Israel" signify in this verse?**

Answer: "The Holy One of Israel" (H6918 qâdôwsh, H3478 Yisrâʼêl) is a significant divine title used frequently by Isaiah. It emphasizes two key aspects of God's character: His absolute holiness and transcendence (He is set apart from all creation and sin) and His unique, covenantal relationship with Israel. By using this title, God underscores the authority and trustworthiness of His counsel, reminding His people that the one speaking is not just any deity, but their sovereign, pure, and faithful God who has chosen them and remains committed to them, despite their unfaithfulness. It highlights that the pathway to salvation and strength comes from a divine source, not from human wisdom or power.

**How does "returning and rest" differ from "quietness and confidence"?**

Answer: While closely related and complementary, "returning and rest" (H7729 shûwbâh, H5183 Nachath) and "quietness and confidence" (H8252 shâqaṭ, H985 biṭchâh) represent distinct yet interconnected aspects of God's prescribed path. "Returning and rest" primarily describes the *action* or *posture* required for salvation: "returning" signifies repentance—a turning away from sin and self-reliance and back to God; "rest" implies ceasing from one's own anxious efforts and settling into God's provision. These are the active steps of faith. "Quietness and confidence," on the other hand, describe the *state* or *disposition* of heart that results from such returning and resting, which then becomes the source of true strength. "Quietness" speaks to an inner tranquility and peace, while "confidence" denotes a deep, unwavering trust in God's faithfulness. Thus, the first pair describes the means to salvation, and the second pair describes the resulting spiritual strength and inner disposition.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 30:15 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "returning and rest" that leads to salvation is perfectly embodied in the gospel call to repent and believe in Him. Jesus Himself extends the invitation, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" [Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest"). He is the one who provides true rest for our souls, freeing us from the burden of sin and the futility of self-effort. Our salvation is not achieved through our own works or alliances, but "by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith"). Furthermore, the "quietness and confidence" that yields strength is found in the peace Christ offers. He promises, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Jesus Gives Peace"). This inner tranquility and unwavering trust in God's sovereignty is a direct result of our union with Christ, who is Himself the "Holy One of God" [Mark 1:24](/mark/1-24 "Mark 1:24 - Jesus, the Holy One of God"). Tragically, just as ancient Judah "would not" heed God's gracious offer, so too many in Jesus' day and throughout history have rejected the ultimate source of salvation and strength, demonstrating the enduring human propensity to choose self over divine grace [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - He Came to His Own"). Yet, for those who embrace Him, Christ is the perfect embodiment and fulfillment of God's counsel, providing salvation, rest, quietness, and eternal strength.

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

Isaiah 26:3

Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee.

Isaiah 26:4

Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength:

Isaiah 32:17

And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.

Jeremiah 3:22

Return, ye backsliding children, [and] I will heal your backslidings. Behold, we come unto thee; for thou [art] the LORD our God.

Jeremiah 3:23

Truly in vain [is salvation hoped for] from the hills, [and from] the multitude of mountains: truly in the LORD our God [is] the salvation of Israel.

Psalms 125:1

¶ A Song of degrees. They that trust in the LORD [shall be] as mount Zion, [which] cannot be removed, [but] abideth for ever.

Psalms 125:2

As the mountains [are] round about Jerusalem, so the LORD [is] round about his people from henceforth even for ever.