Isaiah 32:2

KJV

And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

KJV (with Strong's)

And a man {H376} shall be as an hiding place {H4224} from the wind {H7307}, and a covert {H5643} from the tempest {H2230}; as rivers {H6388} of water {H4325} in a dry place {H6724}, as the shadow {H6738} of a great {H3515} rock {H5553} in a weary {H5889} land {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A man will be like a refuge from the wind, like protection from a storm, like streams of water on arid ground, like a rock cliff shading a weary land.

Berean Standard Bible

Each will be like a shelter from the wind, a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in a dry land, like the shadow of a great rock in an arid land.

American Standard Version

And a man shall be as a hiding-place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest, as streams of water in a dry place, as the shade of a great rock in a weary land.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 32:2 offers a profound prophetic vision, vividly portraying the character and impact of a righteous ruler through a series of rich natural metaphors. This verse describes a figure who provides ultimate protection, abundant refreshment, and deep solace, standing in stark contrast to the desolation, weariness, and spiritual barrenness often experienced in a world marked by injustice. It encapsulates the transformative blessings and restorative power inherent in a just and benevolent reign, promising security and flourishing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a pivotal prophetic oracle in the book of Isaiah, specifically [Isaiah 32](/isaiah/32 "Isaiah 32 - The Righteous King and His Kingdom"). This chapter marks a significant transition from the preceding themes of judgment, desolation, and reliance on human alliances (e.g., [Isaiah 31:1](/isaiah/31-1 "Isaiah 31:1 - Woe to Those Who Go Down to Egypt for Help")) to a glorious depiction of future righteousness and peace. [Isaiah 32:1](/isaiah/32-1 "Isaiah 32:1 - The Reign of the Righteous King") immediately introduces the "king who will reign in righteousness" and "princes who will rule with justice." Verse 2 then elaborates on the tangible, life-giving benefits and characteristics of this righteous rule, painting a picture of the deep security, abundant provision, and profound flourishing that will accompany such leadership, setting the stage for a period of spiritual clarity and societal stability described in the verses that follow. The imagery here not only describes the ruler but also the transformed conditions of the kingdom under his reign.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies of Isaiah were delivered during a period of intense political turmoil and spiritual decline for the kingdom of Judah, primarily under the shadow of the aggressive Assyrian Empire. The people often vacillated between trusting in the Lord and seeking pragmatic, yet ultimately unfaithful, alliances with foreign powers like Egypt, as highlighted in [Isaiah 30:1-7](/isaiah/30-1-7 "Isaiah 30:1-7 - Woe to the Rebellious Children"). In such a climate, the imagery employed in [Isaiah 32:2](/isaiah/32-2 "Isaiah 32:2 - The Blessings of Righteous Rule") would resonate deeply with an audience familiar with the harsh realities of their environment and geopolitical situation. The "wind" and "tempest" refer not only to literal, destructive storms common in the region but also powerfully symbolize societal upheavals, military invasions, and divine judgment. The "rivers of water in a dry place" and "shadow of a great rock in a weary land" speak to the profound longing for life-sustaining water and shade in the arid climate of the ancient Near East, where water was a precious and scarce commodity, and the sun's heat could be relentless. This "weary land" symbolizes the exhaustion and spiritual drought experienced by a people under oppression and apostasy, yearning for relief and restoration.

* **Key Themes:** [Isaiah 32:2](/isaiah/32-2 "Isaiah 32:2 - The Blessings of Righteous Rule") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah. Firstly, it profoundly develops the theme of **Messianic Hope and Righteous Governance**, presenting a stark contrast to the corrupt and unrighteous leadership prevalent in Isaiah's contemporary society. The "man" described here embodies the ideal ruler, foreshadowing the ultimate, perfect reign of a divine king who brings justice and peace. Secondly, the verse powerfully illustrates **Divine Provision and Sustenance**, emphasizing God's unfailing ability to provide abundantly for His people, even in the most desolate circumstances, often through the agency of His chosen leader. This theme is deeply connected to God as the ultimate source of life and blessing, echoing promises found in passages such as [Isaiah 41:17-18](/isaiah/41-17-18 "Isaiah 41:17-18 - God Provides Water in the Wilderness"). Finally, the imagery conveys the theme of **Restoration and Renewal**, offering a glorious vision of profound peace, security, and spiritual refreshment that will characterize the future kingdom, a stark departure from the judgment and desolation frequently described elsewhere in the book, pointing towards a new era of flourishing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** H376 refers to "a man as an individual or a male person." In this context, it signifies a specific, singular figure, emphasizing the personal and direct impact of this righteous individual. While it can refer to any man, the preceding verse ([Isaiah 32:1](/isaiah/32-1 "Isaiah 32:1 - The Reign of the Righteous King")) clearly identifies him as a king who will reign in righteousness, elevating the term beyond a common individual to a figure of significant authority and transformative power. This specific "man" is the focus of the verse's extensive metaphorical descriptions.
* **Tempest (Hebrew, _zerem'_):** H2230, derived from a root meaning "to gush," denotes "a gush of water; flood, overflowing, shower, storm, tempest." This word vividly describes an overwhelming and destructive force, far more severe and violent than a mere "wind." It evokes images of torrential downpours or flash floods that sweep away everything in their path, symbolizing severe trials, divine judgments, or overwhelming adversaries that threaten to engulf life and stability. It represents a calamity of immense proportions.
* **Rock (Hebrew, _çelaʻ'_):** H5553, from an unused root meaning "to be lofty," refers to "a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)." Unlike a small stone, a _çelaʻ_ is a massive, imposing geological feature, often with steep sides, providing natural shelter and an elevated vantage point. In a desert environment, such a rock provides substantial shade and a natural fortress. This imagery speaks to an immovable, enduring, and powerful source of protection and comfort, offering steadfastness and security against the scorching heat and dangers of a "weary land."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind,"**: This initial clause introduces the central figure—the righteous "man" (H376, _ʼîysh'_)—and his primary function: providing refuge. The "wind" (H7307, _rûwach'_) can represent common, often unsettling, but perhaps less severe, disturbances, anxieties, or trials of life. The "hiding place" (H4224, _machăbêʼ'_) suggests a secure, concealed shelter, implying safety, secrecy, and a place of retreat from external threats, offering immediate relief from life's everyday pressures.
* **"and a covert from the tempest;"**: Building upon the previous image, this clause intensifies the protective aspect. A "covert" (H5643, _çêther'_) reinforces the idea of a protected, hidden spot, a place of concealment and protection. The "tempest" (H2230, _zerem'_) signifies a far more violent, overwhelming, and destructive force than mere wind, representing catastrophic trials, divine judgment, or overwhelming adversaries. This suggests protection not just from minor annoyances, but from overwhelming, life-threatening calamities that threaten to sweep everything away.
* **"as rivers of water in a dry place,"**: Shifting from protection to provision, this clause employs a powerful metaphor of life-giving refreshment. "Rivers" (H6388, _peleg'_, referring to irrigation channels or streams) of "water" (H4325, _mayim'_) in a "dry place" (H6724, _tsîyôwn'_, a desert) symbolize abundant, continuous, and vital sustenance in an otherwise barren and parched environment. This speaks to the spiritual and physical nourishment provided by the righteous ruler, transforming desolation into flourishing and satisfying deep thirst.
* **"as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land."**: This final clause combines elements of protection with profound rest and restoration. The "shadow" (H6738, _tsêl'_) of a "great" (H3515, _kâbêd'_, meaning heavy or numerous, implying substantiality) "rock" (H5553, _çelaʻ'_, a craggy, lofty rock) offers profound relief from the scorching sun in a "weary" (H5889, _ʻâyêph'_, languid or faint) "land" (H776, _ʼerets'_). This imagery conveys deep comfort, respite, and restoration for those exhausted by life's burdens, symbolizing a source of peace, renewal, and enduring stability in a draining existence.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 32:2 is exceptionally rich with **metaphor** and **simile**, drawing heavily on natural imagery to convey profound spiritual and societal truths about the righteous ruler. The entire verse functions as an extended **simile**, explicitly comparing the "man" to various life-sustaining and protective elements found in a harsh environment, indicated by the repeated use of the comparative particle "as" (Hebrew: _k_ or _ka'asher_). **Parallelism** is evident in the verse's balanced structure, presenting two pairs of protective imagery ("hiding place from the wind" and "covert from the tempest") followed by two pairs of refreshing and resting imagery ("rivers of water in a dry place" and "shadow of a great rock in a weary land"). This creates a rhythmic and reinforcing effect, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the ruler's blessings. The imagery itself is deeply **symbolic**: "wind" and "tempest" symbolize various forms of trials, judgment, and overwhelming adversity; "rivers of water" symbolize abundant life, spiritual blessing, and refreshment; "dry place" and "weary land" symbolize spiritual barrenness, exhaustion, and the desolation of a world without righteous leadership. The powerful **contrast** between the harsh, life-threatening environment and the life-giving, protective provisions highlights the transformative power and indispensable nature of the righteous ruler.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 32:2 profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan and His provision for humanity's deepest needs. The imagery of refuge, refreshment, and rest points to the divine character of a benevolent ruler who brings order and life where there was chaos and desolation. Theologically, this verse speaks to God's ultimate desire to provide sanctuary and sustenance for His people, often through chosen instruments. It anticipates a time when divine justice will not only rectify wrongs but also bring about a flourishing environment—both physical and spiritual—where the weary find rest and the thirsty are satisfied. This vision of a protective and life-giving presence is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, echoing God's care for Israel in the wilderness and foreshadowing the ultimate source of all true refuge and refreshment for His people.

* [Psalm 46:1](/psalm/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")
* [Psalm 23:2](/psalm/23-2 "Psalm 23:2 - He Leads Me Beside Still Waters")
* [Revelation 7:16-17](/revelation/7-16-17 "Revelation 7:16-17 - No More Hunger, Thirst, or Sun")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 32:2 offers a timeless message of profound hope and comfort for believers navigating the complexities and challenges of life in a fallen world. In an age often characterized by overwhelming pressures, spiritual dryness, and existential weariness, this verse points us to the ultimate source of refuge, abundant refreshment, and deep rest. It calls us to recognize that true security and flourishing are not found in fleeting human solutions, self-reliance, or worldly comforts, but in the steadfast, comprehensive provision of a righteous and compassionate ruler—ultimately, God Himself. Practically, this means cultivating a posture of humble dependence on God, acknowledging Him as our "hiding place" from the relentless storms of anxiety, fear, and adversity. He is our "rivers of water" when our souls are parched by spiritual drought, and our "shadow of a great rock" when we are exhausted by the demands and burdens of existence. This verse encourages us to actively seek and abide in His presence, trusting that He alone can transform our weary lands into places of profound peace, spiritual vitality, and enduring flourishing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "winds" or "tempests"—whether internal anxieties, external pressures, or spiritual attacks—are you currently facing, and how might you more fully seek refuge in the ultimate "hiding place" and "covert" described in this verse?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you feel spiritually "dry" or emotionally "weary," and how can you intentionally draw from the "rivers of water" and the "shadow of a great rock" that God provides through His Word, Spirit, and community?**
* **How does the imagery of a righteous ruler providing such profound and comprehensive care challenge or affirm your understanding of leadership, both in the church and in the broader society, and what qualities do you believe are most essential for truly life-giving leadership?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "man" referred to in Isaiah 32:2?**

Answer: While the immediate historical context points to a righteous king or leader in Israel who would bring about a period of justice and prosperity, the prophetic nature of Isaiah, especially in sections dealing with future righteousness and restoration, strongly suggests a profound Messianic interpretation. Many biblical scholars understand the "man" as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate righteous King who perfectly embodies all the protective, refreshing, and comforting attributes described in the verse. He is the one who truly provides a hiding place from spiritual storms, living water for parched souls, and rest for the weary, fulfilling this prophecy in its most complete sense.

**How does this verse apply to believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, Isaiah 32:2 serves as a powerful promise and an enduring invitation. It reminds us that in Christ, we find complete and unwavering refuge from the spiritual and emotional "winds" and "tempests" of life. He is our inexhaustible source of unending spiritual refreshment, like "rivers of water" in a "dry place," satisfying our deepest longings and bringing vitality to our parched souls. Furthermore, He offers profound rest and solace, acting as the "shadow of a great rock" in our "weary land," providing comfort, peace, and renewal amidst life's burdens and exhaustion. It encourages us to continually turn to Him for our every need, knowing His provision is boundless.

**What is the significance of the natural imagery used in this verse?**

Answer: The natural imagery (wind, tempest, rivers, dry place, shadow, great rock, weary land) is profoundly significant because it draws from universal human experiences, particularly relevant to an ancient Near Eastern audience living in an arid climate. These vivid images convey the severity of the challenges faced (destructive storms, arid deserts, scorching heat) and the profound relief and sustenance offered by the righteous ruler. They make the abstract concepts of divine protection, spiritual provision, and ultimate rest tangible and relatable, emphasizing the life-transforming and comprehensive impact of the promised leadership. The imagery speaks to fundamental human needs for security, sustenance, and solace.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 32:2 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "man" (or divine-human) who perfectly embodies the attributes of a righteous ruler, bringing forth a kingdom of justice and peace. Just as the verse promises, Jesus is indeed our [hiding place from the wind and a covert from the tempest](/psalm/91-1 "Psalm 91:1 - Dwelling in the Shelter of the Most High"), offering absolute security and protection from the spiritual storms of sin, divine judgment, and the adversary's relentless attacks. He declared Himself to be the source of [living water](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - The Spring of Water Welling Up to Eternal Life"), satisfying the deepest spiritual thirst of humanity, transforming the "dry places" of our souls into flourishing gardens of grace. Furthermore, Jesus offers profound rest and solace to the "weary land" of our burdened existence, extending a gracious invitation to all who are heavy laden to [come to Him and find rest for their souls](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary and Burdened"). His sacrificial death on the cross and glorious resurrection provide the ultimate shade and refuge, delivering us from the scorching heat of divine wrath and offering eternal peace and abundant life. Thus, Isaiah 32:2 is not merely a description of an ideal earthly king, but a prophetic portrait of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills every promise of protection, refreshment, and rest for His people, establishing an everlasting kingdom.

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 25:4

For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones [is] as a storm [against] the wall.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 44:3

For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring:

Isaiah 43:20

The beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the wilderness, [and] rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen.

Isaiah 7:14

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Micah 5:4

And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.

Micah 5:5

And this [man] shall be the peace, when the Assyrian shall come into our land: and when he shall tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds, and eight principal men.