Isaiah 33:6

KJV

And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, [and] strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD [is] his treasure.

KJV (with Strong's)

And wisdom {H2451} and knowledge {H1847} shall be the stability {H530} of thy times {H6256}, and strength {H2633} of salvation {H3444}: the fear {H3374} of the LORD {H3068} is his treasure {H214}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge, and fear of ADONAI, which is his treasure.

Berean Standard Bible

He will be the sure foundation for your times, a storehouse of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD is Zion’s treasure.

American Standard Version

And there shall be stability in thy times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge: the fear of Jehovah is thy treasure.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 33:6 stands as a profound declaration of divine provision and the ultimate source of enduring security amidst national turmoil. In a context of impending judgment and promised restoration, the prophet Isaiah reveals that true stability for any era, and the very strength of salvation, are rooted not in human might or worldly schemes, but in divine wisdom and knowledge. The verse culminates by identifying the reverential fear of the LORD as the most precious and invaluable treasure, underscoring its foundational role in securing all other blessings.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 33 is strategically placed within a larger section of Isaiah (chapters 28-35) that deals with God's judgment and ultimate deliverance, particularly concerning the Assyrian threat. The chapter opens with a lament and prayer for divine intervention against the "destroyer" (Assyria), followed by a dramatic depiction of God's powerful intervention that causes the nations to flee in terror. Following this display of divine judgment and deliverance, as seen in [Isaiah 33:1-4](/isaiah/33-1-4 "Isaiah 33:1-4 - God's Judgment on the Destroyer"), the focus shifts to the glorious state of Zion (Jerusalem) under God's protection. [Isaiah 33:5](/isaiah/33-5 "Isaiah 33:5 - The Lord Exalted in Zion") declares, "The LORD is exalted; for he dwelleth on high: he hath filled Zion with judgment and righteousness." Verse 6 then elaborates on the foundational elements—wisdom, knowledge, and the fear of the LORD—that ensure this promised stability, strength, and blessing for the righteous remnant in Zion. This verse serves as a pivotal theological statement, bridging the immediate crisis with the ultimate divine solution.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Isaiah 33 is the Assyrian invasion of Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah, specifically around 701 BC. The Assyrian Empire, under Sennacherib, was a dominant and brutal power, having already conquered much of the ancient Near East and threatening Jerusalem directly. The people of Judah faced immense fear, uncertainty, and the temptation to rely on political alliances (like with Egypt) rather than trusting in God. Culturally, the concept of "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, _chokmâh'_) was highly valued in ancient Israel, often associated with practical skill, moral discernment, and understanding God's ways, as evidenced throughout the Wisdom Literature (e.g., [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge")). The "fear of the LORD" (יִרְאַת יְהוָה, _yirʼat Yᵉhôvâh'_) was not a cowering dread but a profound reverence, awe, and humble obedience, considered the beginning of all true knowledge and the pathway to life and blessing in ancient Near Eastern thought, particularly within Israelite theology.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in Isaiah and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Provision**, asserting that true stability and strength come solely from God, not human effort or political maneuvering. This contrasts sharply with Judah's tendency to trust in foreign alliances or military might, emphasizing God's ultimate control over history and His people's destiny. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Primacy of Wisdom and Knowledge**, presenting them not merely as intellectual pursuits but as divine attributes and gifts that are essential for national and individual well-being. This aligns with the biblical emphasis on understanding God's character and will as the basis for a flourishing life, a theme echoed in [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "Proverbs 2:6 - The Lord Gives Wisdom"). Finally, the declaration that "the fear of the LORD is his treasure" underscores the **Value of Reverence and Obedience**. This reverential fear is portrayed as the ultimate spiritual wealth, surpassing all earthly riches, and serving as the wellspring from which true wisdom and knowledge flow, leading to salvation and stability. This concept is foundational to biblical ethics and spiritual life, as seen in [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "Psalm 111:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wisdom (Hebrew, _chokmâh'_):** From H2451, this term signifies wisdom in a good sense, encompassing practical skill, moral discernment, and insightful understanding. It's not merely intellectual knowledge but the ability to apply truth effectively, to live skillfully according to God's design, and to discern right from wrong. In this context, it refers to a divine wisdom that provides guidance and discernment for the nation's times, ensuring sound judgment and prudent action.
* **Knowledge (Hebrew, _daʻath'_):** From H1847, this refers to understanding, perception, and intimate acquaintance. While related to wisdom, knowledge here denotes a deep, experiential understanding of God's character, His ways, and His truth. It is the comprehension of divine principles that informs and undergirds the practical application of wisdom, providing a sure foundation for decision-making and a clear understanding of reality.
* **Fear (Hebrew, _yirʼâh'_):** From H3374, this word denotes fear, but morally, it signifies reverence and awe. It is not a cowering terror but a profound respect, worshipful submission, and humble obedience to God's authority and holiness. This "fear of the LORD" is consistently presented in Scripture as the starting point for true wisdom and the most valuable spiritual possession, as it aligns one's heart with the divine will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times":** This clause declares that the enduring security, steadfastness, and reliability for the nation's future ("thy times," referring to Judah's present and future eras) will not come from human strategies, military might, or political alliances, but directly from divine wisdom and knowledge. These qualities, understood as gifts from God and characteristics of His righteous rule, are the true anchors in an unstable world, providing firmness and reliability against all forms of upheaval.
* **"and strength of salvation":** Expanding on the previous thought, wisdom and knowledge are further identified as the very power or might that brings about deliverance and well-being. This "salvation" (Hebrew: _yᵉshûwʻâh_) is comprehensive, encompassing not only rescue from physical danger but also spiritual flourishing, prosperity, and wholeness. It implies that understanding and living by God's truth empowers individuals and nations to experience His saving work in its fullest, most robust sense.
* **"the fear of the LORD is his treasure":** This concluding declaration identifies the ultimate source and most valuable possession. The "fear of the LORD"—a profound reverence, awe, and obedient submission to God—is deemed "his treasure." This means it is God's own valued possession within His people, a quality He cherishes, and simultaneously, it is the most precious and enduring wealth for those who possess it. It is the wellspring from which true wisdom and knowledge flow, and thus, the most vital element for stability and salvation. This treasure is not earthly but spiritual, yielding eternal dividends.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 33:6 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its profound message with memorable impact. **Personification** is evident in the way "wisdom" and "knowledge" are presented almost as active agents or foundational pillars that provide "stability" and "strength." They are not merely abstract concepts but are depicted as tangible forces that secure the times and enable salvation. The phrase "strength of salvation" also functions as a **Metaphor**, equating wisdom and knowledge with the very power or might that brings deliverance. This suggests that these divine qualities are not just intellectual assets but dynamic forces that actively secure God's people. Furthermore, the verse exhibits a form of **Parallelism**, particularly in the relationship between the first two clauses and the final declaration. The initial statement about wisdom and knowledge providing stability and strength sets up the climactic assertion that the "fear of the LORD" is the ultimate "treasure," implying that this reverence is the source and summation of both wisdom and knowledge. The entire verse functions as a powerful **Chiasm** or inverted parallelism (A-B-B'-A'), where "wisdom and knowledge" (A) lead to "stability" and "strength of salvation" (B), and this is rooted in "the fear of the LORD" (B'), which is "his treasure" (A'). This structure places emphasis on the central element—the fear of the LORD—as the ultimate and most valuable component.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 33:6 encapsulates a core theological truth found throughout the biblical narrative: true security and flourishing are not found in human ingenuity, military might, or material wealth, but in a right relationship with God, characterized by wisdom, knowledge, and profound reverence for His sovereignty. This verse elevates spiritual virtues above temporal advantages, asserting that divine wisdom and knowledge, rooted in the fear of the LORD, are the only reliable anchors in a world of flux and uncertainty. It speaks to God's character as the ultimate source of all good, the one who provides not just physical deliverance but also the spiritual discernment necessary to navigate life's challenges. The concept of the "fear of the LORD" as a "treasure" underscores its immense value, positioning it as the most precious possession one can acquire, leading to life, stability, and salvation. This treasure is not something God lacks, but something He desires to see cultivated in His people, as it reflects His own character and establishes a covenantal relationship.

* [Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Psalm 111:10](/psalms/111-10 "Psalm 111:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")
* [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that constantly seeks stability and security in fleeting resources—financial markets, political power, technological advancements—Isaiah 33:6 offers a profound reorientation. It challenges us to recognize that genuine, lasting stability for our individual lives and for society as a whole stems from divine wisdom and knowledge, which are themselves rooted in a reverential fear of the LORD. This isn't a passive concept but an active pursuit: seeking God's wisdom through His Word, cultivating a deep understanding of His character, and living in humble obedience to His will. When we make the fear of the LORD our ultimate "treasure," we align ourselves with the very source of all truth, strength, and salvation, finding an unshakeable foundation even when earthly circumstances are tumultuous. This verse calls us to re-evaluate our priorities, shifting our gaze from temporal solutions to the eternal wellspring of God's wisdom, ensuring that our lives are built on the most secure and valuable foundation. It reminds us that true prosperity is spiritual, not material, and that a reverent relationship with God is the most valuable asset one can possess.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you primarily seek stability and security? How might Isaiah 33:6 challenge your current priorities?**
* **What does "the fear of the LORD" mean to you personally, and how can you cultivate this reverence in your daily life?**
* **How do wisdom and knowledge, as described in this verse, contribute to your understanding of salvation and its practical outworking in your life?**
* **Considering the "fear of the LORD" as a "treasure," what practical steps can you take to prioritize this spiritual wealth above material possessions or worldly achievements?**

### FAQ
**What does "stability of thy times" mean in this verse?**

Answer: "Stability of thy times" refers to the enduring security and steadfastness that will characterize the future of the nation, or even an individual's life, during periods of uncertainty and change. In the immediate context of Isaiah 33, it speaks to Judah's future amidst the Assyrian threat and subsequent restoration. The verse declares that this stability will not come from human strength or political maneuvering, but from divine wisdom and knowledge, which are rooted in the fear of the LORD. It signifies a firm foundation that withstands the trials of any given era, ensuring resilience and peace amidst turmoil.

**Is the "fear of the LORD" a literal terror of God?**

Answer: No, the "fear of the LORD" (Hebrew: _yirʼâh_) is not a cowering terror or dread, but rather a profound reverence, awe, and worshipful submission to God's holiness, power, and authority. It is an acknowledgment of His supreme majesty and a humble desire to obey His commands. This reverential fear is consistently presented in biblical wisdom literature as the beginning of true wisdom and knowledge, leading to life, blessing, and a deep, intimate relationship with God. It is the foundational attitude that enables one to receive and apply divine wisdom, as highlighted in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge"). It is a fear that draws one closer to God, not away from Him.

**How are wisdom and knowledge related to salvation in this verse?**

Answer: The verse states that wisdom and knowledge "shall be... strength of salvation." This means that understanding God's ways and His truth provides the necessary power, assurance, and means for deliverance and well-being. "Salvation" (Hebrew: _yᵉshûwʻâh_) is a broad term encompassing physical rescue, spiritual wholeness, prosperity, and victory. Therefore, wisdom and knowledge, flowing from the fear of the LORD, are presented as the essential components that enable a people or individual to experience God's saving work in a comprehensive way, both in times of crisis and for enduring flourishing. It implies that knowing God and His will is integral to experiencing His full redemptive plan, providing the insight and discernment needed to walk in His saving purposes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 33:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of divine wisdom and knowledge, as [Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge") declares that "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Christ is God's wisdom made manifest, the one through whom all things were created and sustained, as further illuminated in [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer"). Therefore, the "stability of thy times" and the "strength of salvation" are found supremely in Him. It is through faith in Christ that believers gain access to true wisdom for living and experience the full power of God's salvation, which is eternal life and deliverance from sin's dominion, as powerfully proclaimed in [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Gospel is the Power of God for Salvation"). Furthermore, Jesus perfectly modeled the "fear of the LORD"—not as a cowering servant, but as the obedient Son, living in perfect reverence and submission to the Father's will even unto death, as seen in [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death"). His life of perfect obedience and reverent submission is the ultimate "treasure" that secures our salvation. Thus, for the believer, the "fear of the LORD" is no longer a burdensome duty but a joyful response to the grace revealed in Christ, who Himself is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, as affirmed in [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom and Righteousness"). In Christ, all the promises of stability, strength, and the invaluable treasure of a right relationship with God are realized for all who believe.

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 112:1

¶ Praise ye the LORD. Blessed [is] the man [that] feareth the LORD, [that] delighteth greatly in his commandments.

Psalms 112:3

Wealth and riches [shall be] in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

1 Timothy 4:8

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Proverbs 19:23

¶ The fear of the LORD [tendeth] to life: and [he that hath it] shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

1 Timothy 6:6

¶ But godliness with contentment is great gain.

Psalms 27:1

¶ [A Psalm] of David. The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?