Isaiah 35:3

KJV

Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

KJV (with Strong's)

Strengthen {H2388} ye the weak {H7504} hands {H3027}, and confirm {H553} the feeble {H3782} knees {H1290}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Strengthen your drooping arms, and steady your tottering knees.

Berean Standard Bible

Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees!

American Standard Version

Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 35:3 issues a powerful, imperative call to action, urging God's people to find renewed strength and courage in the face of despair. Situated within a grand prophetic vision of future glory and the dramatic transformation of creation, this verse serves as a direct exhortation to those who are weary, disheartened, or lacking resolve, preparing them to receive and participate in the magnificent salvation that the Lord Himself is about to bring. It underscores the vital role of human perseverance and mutual encouragement in anticipation of divine intervention, bridging the gap between God's magnificent promises and the immediate need for steadfastness among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 35:3 stands as a pivotal exhortation within a chapter that functions as a glorious climax to the preceding prophecies of judgment and restoration. Chapter 34 details God's fierce judgment upon the nations, particularly Edom, depicting a desolate wasteland. In stark contrast, chapter 35 immediately shifts to a vibrant, Edenic vision of redemption for Israel. The desert will blossom, the blind will see, the deaf will hear, and the lame will leap, all culminating in the "Highway of Holiness" for the redeemed of the Lord. Verse 3, "Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees," serves as an interjection, a direct command to the people to prepare their hearts and minds for this impending divine breakthrough, which is explicitly promised in the subsequent verse: "Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you" [Isaiah 35:4](/isaiah/35-4 "Isaiah 35:4 - God's Coming Salvation"). Thus, the human response of strengthening oneself is directly linked to the certainty of God's saving action, highlighting the interplay between divine initiative and human readiness.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Isaiah addresses various periods of Israelite history, from the Assyrian threat in the 8th century BCE to the Babylonian exile and the promise of return. While the immediate historical backdrop might be the period of Assyrian oppression or the impending Babylonian captivity, the prophetic vision of [Isaiah 35](/isaiah/35 "Isaiah 35 - The Future Glory of Zion") transcends specific historical moments, pointing to a future, ultimate restoration. The imagery of "weak hands" and "feeble knees" would have resonated deeply with a people experiencing national decline, political instability, and spiritual apathy, or those anticipating exile. Hands are symbols of work, action, and power, while knees represent stability, strength, and the ability to stand or move forward. To have weak hands and feeble knees implies a state of utter helplessness, exhaustion, or despair, a condition often brought on by prolonged suffering or a loss of hope in God's promises. The exhortation, therefore, is a call to overcome this spiritual and physical debilitation, a common theme for a people prone to discouragement during times of trial, as seen in other prophetic books like [Jeremiah](/jeremiah/ "The Book of Jeremiah").

* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 35:3 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Restoration**, emphasizing that God Himself is the ultimate source of strength and the initiator of salvation, transforming desolation into flourishing life. Secondly, it underscores **Human Responsibility and Perseverance**, calling for an active response of faith and courage from those who are to receive this salvation. The plural "ye" implies a communal responsibility, fostering a theme of **Mutual Encouragement and Support** within the community of faith, where believers are called to uplift one another. This encouragement is not based on human optimism but on the steadfastness of God's covenant promises, a theme prevalent throughout Isaiah, particularly in passages like [Isaiah 40:29-31](/isaiah/40-29 "Isaiah 40:29-31 - God Gives Power to the Faint"). The verse bridges the gap between God's grand prophetic promises and the immediate need for human steadfastness, preparing the way for the "Highway of Holiness" mentioned later in the chapter.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strengthen (Hebrew, _châzaq_):** This primitive root (H2388) conveys the idea "to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate." In this imperative command, it urges an active, intentional effort to restore vigor and resolve, often used in contexts of preparing for battle or undertaking a difficult, demanding task. It signifies a call to make firm, to fortify, and to be courageous.
* **Weak (Hebrew, _râpheh_):** Derived from a root meaning "to sink down" or "to relax," this word (H7504) describes a state of being "slack (in body or mind); weak." When applied to "hands," it suggests an inability to work, hold, or act effectively, indicative of despair, exhaustion, or a lack of resolve. It points to a profound lack of energy or firmness, both physically and spiritually.
* **Feeble (Hebrew, _kâshal_):** This primitive root (H3782) means "to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall." Applied to "knees," it vividly portrays instability, an inability to stand firm, or a readiness to collapse. The combination of "weak hands" and "feeble knees" paints a comprehensive picture of utter physical and spiritual debilitation, a state of being utterly disheartened and unable to proceed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Strengthen ye the weak hands":** This is a direct, imperative command delivered to a plural audience ("ye"), signifying a communal responsibility. "Weak hands" metaphorically represent a lack of power, resolve, or ability to act effectively. Hands are instruments of work, battle, and support. To strengthen them means to restore their vigor, courage, and capacity for action, implying a call to overcome despondency and engage with renewed purpose and determination in the face of daunting circumstances.
* **"and confirm the feeble knees":** This parallel imperative reinforces the first, emphasizing the holistic nature of the call to resilience. "Feeble knees" symbolize instability, a lack of steadfastness, or an inability to stand firm or move forward. Knees are essential for standing, walking, and kneeling (in prayer or submission). To "confirm" (from the Hebrew root _ʼâmats_ H553, meaning to be alert, courageous, or establish) them means to make them firm, steady, and resolute. This speaks to restoring courage, stability, and perseverance, enabling the people to stand upright and advance with confidence in God's promises.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 35:3 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its urgent message. The primary device is **Metaphor**, where "weak hands" and "feeble knees" serve as vivid, concrete representations of spiritual and physical exhaustion, despair, or a debilitating lack of resolve. These are not literal physical ailments but symbolic expressions of a people's disheartened state, unable to act or stand firm. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the two clauses ("Strengthen ye the weak hands" and "confirm the feeble knees") express similar ideas using different but related imagery. Both clauses convey the imperative to restore vigor and steadfastness, with the second clause intensifying the meaning of the first. This repetition emphasizes the urgency and comprehensive nature of the command. Furthermore, the verse functions as an **Exhortation** or **Imperative**, a direct command to the audience, making the call to action immediate and personal, despite its broader prophetic context. The **Imagery** of physical debilitation makes the spiritual message profoundly relatable and impactful, allowing the audience to grasp the depth of their current state and the necessity of the commanded restoration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 35:3, while an ancient command, carries profound theological weight that resonates throughout the biblical narrative. It articulates the tension between human weakness and divine strength, a recurring theme in Scripture. The call to "strengthen" and "confirm" is not an appeal to self-reliance but an exhortation to prepare for and align with God's promised intervention. It underscores the principle that while God provides the ultimate salvation, His people are called to a posture of readiness, faith, and mutual encouragement. This verse reminds us that spiritual vitality is not a passive state but requires active engagement, supported by the community of faith, as we await and participate in God's redemptive work. It is a call to courageous faith, not in one's own ability, but in the steadfast character and promises of God.

* [Hebrews 12:12](/hebrews/12-12 "Hebrews 12:12 - Lift Up Weak Hands and Feeble Knees"): Directly quotes or alludes to Isaiah 35:3, applying it to Christian perseverance in the face of trials, urging believers to throw off hindrances and run with endurance.
* [1 Thessalonians 5:14](/1_thessalonians/5-14 "1 Thessalonians 5:14 - Admonish the Idle, Encourage the Faint-hearted"): Paul's instruction to "encourage the faint-hearted" echoes the communal responsibility to uplift those who are weak or discouraged, mirroring the spirit of Isaiah 35:3.
* [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - All Things Through Christ"): While not a direct parallel, this verse speaks to the source of strength for believers, affirming that true spiritual and practical ability comes through Christ who strengthens us, providing the divine enablement for the kind of perseverance called for in Isaiah.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 35:3 offers a timeless and deeply relevant message for believers today, inviting us to consider our own spiritual posture in the journey of faith. In a world often marked by discouragement, anxiety, and weariness, the call to "strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees" serves as a powerful reminder that we are not meant to succumb to despair. This verse encourages us to actively cultivate spiritual resilience, drawing upon the inexhaustible strength of God's promises and His unfailing presence. It also highlights our profound responsibility to one another within the body of Christ. When we observe a brother or sister faltering under the weight of trials, it is our sacred duty to come alongside them, offering prayer, encouragement, practical support, and the steadfast truth of God's Word. This mutual strengthening is not merely a suggestion but an imperative for the health and vitality of the Christian community, enabling all to stand firm and press forward in hope, even when the path seems arduous and the challenges overwhelming. It calls us to both personal spiritual discipline and compassionate communal engagement.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or faith journey do you currently feel "weak hands" or "feeble knees," indicating spiritual or emotional exhaustion?**
* **How can you intentionally draw upon God's strength and the resources of His Word to "strengthen" yourself in these specific areas?**
* **Who in your spiritual community might need you to "strengthen their weak hands" or "confirm their feeble knees" today, and what practical steps will you take to offer that support?**
* **How does the promise of God's ultimate salvation and future glory (as hinted at in Isaiah 35) fuel your perseverance in present difficulties and motivate you to encourage others?**

### FAQ
**What does "weak hands" and "feeble knees" symbolize in this verse?**

Answer: In Isaiah 35:3, "weak hands" and "feeble knees" are powerful metaphors for a state of spiritual and physical exhaustion, despondency, and a profound lack of resolve or courage. "Hands" often symbolize capability, action, and work, so weak hands suggest an inability to perform, to fight, or to hold on to hope. "Knees" represent stability, strength, and the ability to stand firm or move forward. Feeble knees, therefore, imply instability, a tendency to stumble, or a complete lack of fortitude. Together, they paint a vivid picture of utter helplessness and despair, a condition that the prophetic message seeks to alleviate by calling for renewed strength and confidence in God's impending salvation. This imagery is common in prophetic and wisdom literature to describe a disheartened people, as seen in passages like [Job 4:4](/job/4-4 "Job 4:4 - Strengthening Feeble Knees").

**Is this verse an individual or communal command?**

Answer: The command "Strengthen ye" (חַזְּקוּ - _chazzəqû_) uses the plural imperative in Hebrew, indicating that it is directed to a collective audience, the people of God. While individuals are certainly called to cultivate personal spiritual strength, the plural form strongly implies a communal responsibility. It is a call for those who are spiritually stronger or more resilient to actively uplift and encourage their fellow believers who are struggling, disheartened, or weary. This highlights the vital role of mutual support and encouragement within the community of faith, ensuring that no one is left to falter alone. This communal aspect is echoed in New Testament exhortations for believers to bear one another's burdens and encourage each other daily, as in [Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 35:3, with its call to strengthen the weak and confirm the feeble, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While initially an exhortation to Israel awaiting their physical restoration, the spiritual realities it addresses—human weakness, despair, and the need for divine empowerment—are perfectly met in the Gospel. Jesus Himself came to bring strength to the spiritually weak, to give sight to the blind, and to enable the lame to walk, fulfilling the very signs prophesied in [Isaiah 35:5-6](/isaiah/35-5 "Isaiah 35:5-6 - The Blind See, The Lame Walk"). He is the one who truly "strengthens" our weak hands, empowering us through the Holy Spirit to live a life of faith and obedience, as promised in [Philippians 4:13](/philippians/4-13 "Philippians 4:13 - I Can Do All Things Through Christ"). Moreover, He "confirms" our feeble knees, establishing our hearts in righteousness and giving us steadfastness in the face of trials, enabling us to stand firm in the truth of God's Word, as elaborated in [Ephesians 6:10-18](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10-18 - The Armor of God"). The "Highway of Holiness" (Isaiah 35:8) is ultimately realized in Christ, who is "the way, the truth, and the life" [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, The Way"). Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, Christ provides the ultimate source of courage and hope, transforming those who were utterly lost and without strength into a people made strong and able to walk in newness of life, anticipating the glorious and eternal restoration found in His coming kingdom [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain").

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

Hebrews 12:12

Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;

Job 4:3

Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands.

Job 4:4

Thy words have upholden him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the feeble knees.

Luke 22:32

But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

Isaiah 57:14

And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way of my people.

Isaiah 57:16

For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always wroth: for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls [which] I have made.

Job 16:5

[But] I would strengthen you with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage [your grief].