Isaiah 35:5

KJV

¶ Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then the eyes {H5869} of the blind {H5787} shall be opened {H6491}, and the ears {H241} of the deaf {H2795} shall be unstopped {H6605}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf will be unstopped;

Berean Standard Bible

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.

American Standard Version

Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 35:5 presents a vivid prophetic declaration within a chapter brimming with promises of divine restoration and exuberant joy. It powerfully envisions a future era marked by God's direct intervention, where profound physical disabilities are miraculously reversed, symbolizing a comprehensive renewal of creation and humanity. This verse, therefore, stands as a profound testament to God's redemptive power and foresight, pointing toward a glorious age of wholeness, spiritual enlightenment, and ultimate shalom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 35:5 is strategically placed within a magnificent prophetic vision often termed "The Highway of Holiness," which describes Israel's glorious future after a period of judgment. The chapter opens with striking imagery of the desolate wilderness and parched land blossoming like a rose, symbolizing a dramatic transformation from barrenness and sorrow to fertility, joy, and the very "glory of Lebanon, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon" [Isaiah 35:1-2](/isaiah/35-1-2 "Isaiah 35:1-2 - The Desert Blooms"). This sets a tone of radical reversal and divine renewal. Verses 3-4 serve as an exhortation to strengthen the weak and fearful, assuring them of God's imminent salvation and vengeance against oppressors. Following the specific miracles of healing detailed in verse 5, the chapter continues to describe the practical manifestations of this restoration, including abundant water in the desert [Isaiah 35:6-7](/isaiah/35-6-7 "Isaiah 35:6-7 - Waters in the Wilderness") and, most notably, the establishment of a "Highway of Holiness" [Isaiah 35:8](/isaiah/35-8 "Isaiah 35:8 - The Highway of Holiness"). This highway is reserved for the redeemed, upon which they will return to Zion with everlasting joy, free from all harm, sorrow, and danger. Thus, verse 5 functions as a pivotal declaration, illustrating the tangible, miraculous aspects of God's redemptive work that enable this joyous and secure return.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Isaiah's prophecies were delivered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by the looming threats and eventual devastations of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires. The people experienced profound suffering, displacement, and spiritual decline. In such a context, promises of physical healing and restoration were not abstract theological concepts but deeply tangible hopes for a people facing widespread poverty, disease, and the devastating consequences of war and oppression. Blindness and deafness were common and debilitating conditions in the ancient Near East, often leading to social marginalization and dependence. In some cultural understandings, such afflictions could even be perceived as a sign of divine displeasure or a curse (though the Old Testament also challenges this simplistic view, as seen in [John 9:1-3](/john/9-1-3 "John 9:1-3 - Neither Sinned Nor Parents")). Therefore, the prophetic reversal of these conditions by divine power would have been understood as a clear, unmistakable sign of God's favor, a new covenant, and the ushering in of a messianic age where the brokenness of the world would be mended. This prophecy offered immense comfort and a vision of ultimate shalom (wholeness, peace, prosperity) for a suffering nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes pervasive in Isaiah and throughout biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Healing and Restoration**, highlighting God's sovereign power to mend not only the physical body but also the brokenness of creation and humanity. This is presented as a complete and miraculous reversal of debilitating conditions, not merely an improvement, signifying God's ultimate triumph over the effects of the Fall. Secondly, it functions as a profound **Messianic Prophecy**, directly foreshadowing the miraculous works of the coming Messiah. Jesus Christ explicitly referenced and fulfilled these very prophecies during His earthly ministry, as seen in His response to John the Baptist's disciples, "The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them" [Matthew 11:5](/matthew/11-5 "Matthew 11:5 - Jesus' Works Fulfill Prophecy"). Thirdly, while referring to physical healing, the verse also carries a deep dimension of **Spiritual Transformation**. The opening of blind eyes can symbolize spiritual enlightenment and understanding of God's truth, while the unstopping of deaf ears represents the ability to hear and respond to God's voice and His gospel, overcoming the spiritual blindness and deafness that often afflict humanity [2 Corinthians 4:4](/2_corinthians/4-4 "2 Corinthians 4:4 - The God of This World Blinds Minds"). Finally, the verse offers immense **Hope and Assurance**, promising God's people that their suffering and limitations are not permanent in His ultimate plan of redemption, but will be comprehensively addressed by His sovereign power.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **eyes (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** H5869, primarily referring to the physical organ of sight, possesses a remarkably broad semantic range. Beyond literal vision, it can metaphorically represent outward appearance, perception, knowledge, or even a fountain (as the "eye" of the landscape). In this context, it specifically denotes the literal organs of vision that are impaired by blindness, emphasizing the physical aspect of the miracle. The "opening" of these eyes signifies a restoration of full sensory perception and, by extension, a return to full participation in life and the ability to behold God's glory.
* **blind (Hebrew, _ʻivvêr'_):** H5787, an intensive form derived from a root meaning "to be blind," denotes one who is literally or figuratively without sight. In ancient Israel, blindness was a severe and common disability, often leading to dependence, poverty, and social marginalization. The prophetic promise of the "blind" having their eyes "opened" directly addresses this profound physical limitation, indicating a complete and miraculous restoration of sight, symbolizing God's power to reverse even the most entrenched human infirmities and bring light to darkness.
* **opened (Hebrew, _pâqach'_):** H6491, a primitive root, means "to open" specifically in relation to the senses, particularly the eyes. It implies a decisive, instantaneous, and complete action, rather than a gradual process. This verb suggests a divine, supernatural act that brings about full functionality where there was none, highlighting God's direct intervention in restoring perception. The choice of this precise verb underscores the miraculous nature of the healing event.
* **unstopped (Hebrew, _pâthach'_):** H6605, a primitive root, means "to open wide," "to loosen," or "to begin." While `pâqach` is specific to the eyes, `pâthach` is a more general term for opening, but when applied to ears in this context, it signifies the removal of any obstruction or impediment that prevented hearing. It conveys the idea of a complete unblocking, allowing sound to be perceived clearly and fully. This verb, like `pâqach`, points to a definitive and immediate act of restoration, ensuring comprehensive sensory wholeness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,"**: This initial clause declares a miraculous and immediate intervention in the realm of sight. The "blind" (those afflicted with a complete lack of vision) will have their "eyes" (the physical organs of sight) "opened" (made fully functional and capable of perception). This is presented as a direct, divine act, reversing a profound physical disability. It signifies a dramatic transition from darkness and incapacity to light and perception, promising a complete and instantaneous restoration of vision.
* **"and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped."**: Following the promise for the blind, this parallel clause extends the miraculous healing to those who cannot hear. The "deaf" (those unable to perceive sound) will have their "ears" (the physical organs of hearing) "unstopped" (freed from any impediment or blockage that prevented auditory perception). This implies a complete removal of the obstruction, allowing for perfect and clear hearing. Together, these two clauses present a comprehensive picture of sensory restoration, highlighting God's sovereign power to bring wholeness and full functionality where there was profound lack and infirmity.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 35:5 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of hope and divine intervention. **Parallelism** is prominently featured, with the two clauses mirroring each other in structure and concept ("Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped"). This synonymous parallelism reinforces the comprehensive nature of the promised healing, extending to two of the most vital human senses, emphasizing God's holistic restoration. The verse also utilizes **Metonymy**, where "eyes" and "ears" stand for the entire person's capacity to see and hear, emphasizing the personal and holistic nature of the restoration that impacts the individual's full participation in life. Furthermore, the language is deeply **Prophetic**, using future tense verbs ("shall be opened," "shall be unstopped") to declare a certain future event, rooted in divine promise and authority. This prophetic utterance functions as a **Divine Decree**, a powerful declaration of God's sovereign will that will inevitably come to pass. Finally, the physical healing described serves as powerful **Symbolism** for spiritual restoration and enlightenment, suggesting that just as physical senses are opened, so too will spiritual understanding and responsiveness to God's truth be granted, overcoming spiritual blindness and deafness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 35:5 stands as a cornerstone of biblical theology concerning God's character as a compassionate healer and sovereign restorer. It speaks to the ultimate triumph over the pervasive effects of the Fall, envisioning a world where physical infirmity and suffering are eradicated by divine power. This promise is deeply rooted in God's covenant faithfulness, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His people's well-being and His ultimate plan to bring about a new creation. The prophetic vision extends beyond mere physical cures, pointing to a holistic restoration that encompasses spiritual understanding and the full flourishing of humanity in God's presence. It underscores the biblical theme of God bringing light to darkness, not just literally, but spiritually, enabling His people to truly perceive His glory, understand His ways, and hear His guiding voice. This verse encapsulates the profound hope that God is actively working towards a future of complete wholeness and joy for His redeemed.

* [Isaiah 29:18](/isaiah/29-18 "Isaiah 29:18 - The Deaf and Blind Will Hear and See")
* [Matthew 11:4-5](/matthew/11-4-5 "Matthew 11:4-5 - Jesus' Miracles as Proof of Messiahship")
* [Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18-19 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Mission Statement from Isaiah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 35:5 offers profound comfort and a powerful call to faith for believers across all generations. It serves as a vibrant reminder that God is not limited by human impossibilities or the seemingly insurmountable challenges we face; He is capable of performing miracles that bring healing and wholeness in the most dire situations. This applies not only to physical ailments and disabilities but also to deep emotional wounds, spiritual blindness, and the pervasive brokenness of our world. The verse encourages us to cultivate a posture of hopeful expectation, trusting that God's ultimate plan involves comprehensive restoration and redemption. Practically, it prompts us to pray fervently for both physical healing for ourselves and others, and perhaps even more importantly, for spiritual discernment – that our eyes may be opened to truly see God's truth revealed in His Word and His presence, and our ears unstopped to hear His guiding voice amidst the clamor and distractions of life. This prophecy also fuels our anticipation for the glorious future of God's kingdom, where all sorrow, pain, and infirmity will be forever removed, and we will experience complete joy and wholeness in His eternal presence, truly seeing Him as He is and hearing His perfect voice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life, or the lives of those you know, do you long for God's miraculous touch of healing and comprehensive restoration?**
* **How might you be spiritually "blind" to God's truth or His active leading, or "deaf" to His voice in your daily life? What intentional steps can you take to open your spiritual eyes and unstop your spiritual ears?**
* **How does the promise of complete restoration in God's future kingdom impact your perspective on present suffering, limitations, and the brokenness you observe in the world?**
* **What practical actions can you take to live out the hope and anticipation of God's restorative power in your daily life, both personally and within your community?**

### FAQ
**Is this prophecy in Isaiah 35:5 exclusively about physical healing, or does it have a deeper meaning?**

Answer: While Isaiah 35:5 certainly speaks to literal physical healing, its meaning extends far beyond that, encompassing a profound spiritual dimension. In prophetic literature, physical conditions often serve as powerful symbols for spiritual realities. Therefore, the opening of blind eyes and unstopping of deaf ears also powerfully symbolizes spiritual enlightenment and the ability to hear and respond to God's truth. Many biblical scholars interpret this as a promise of spiritual transformation—that those who are spiritually blind to God's ways (lacking understanding or perception of divine truth) will gain insight, and those who are spiritually deaf to His voice (unresponsive or unable to discern His will) will become receptive. This dual interpretation aligns with other passages in Isaiah that speak of spiritual blindness and deafness, such as [Isaiah 6:9-10](/isaiah/6-9-10 "Isaiah 6:9-10 - Hearts Hardened, Eyes Shut") and [Isaiah 42:18](/isaiah/42-18 "Isaiah 42:18 - Hear, You Deaf; Look, You Blind"). Ultimately, it points to a holistic restoration that encompasses both body and spirit, characteristic of God's redemptive work.

**How does this prophecy relate to the coming of the Messiah?**

Answer: Isaiah 35:5 is widely regarded as a significant Messianic prophecy, finding its ultimate and direct fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself pointed to His miraculous healings as undeniable evidence of His identity as the promised Messiah. When John the Baptist's disciples asked if He was "the one who is to come," Jesus replied, "Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them" [Matthew 11:4-5](/matthew/11-4-5 "Matthew 11:4-5 - Jesus' Reply to John"). This direct echo of Isaiah's prophecy confirms that Jesus' earthly ministry was the very inauguration of these ancient promises. His healings were not merely acts of compassion but powerful signs of the dawning of God's kingdom and the presence of the Messiah among His people, demonstrating His divine authority and fulfilling the prophetic expectations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 35:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. He is the long-awaited Messiah who perfectly embodies the divine power to open blind eyes and unstop deaf ears, not only physically but also, and more significantly, spiritually. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus performed countless miracles of healing, directly demonstrating the fulfillment of this prophecy. He gave sight to the man born blind [John 9:1-7](/john/9-1-7 "John 9:1-7 - Jesus Heals the Blind Man"), restored hearing and speech to the deaf man with an impediment [Mark 7:31-37](/mark/7-31-37 "Mark 7:31-37 - Jesus Heals a Deaf and Mute Man"), and consistently ministered to the sick and infirm, validating His messianic claims. More profoundly, Jesus came as the "Light of the World" [John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"), opening the spiritual eyes of those blinded by sin and unbelief, enabling them to perceive God's truth, His kingdom, and their need for salvation. He unstopped the spiritual ears of those deaf to the voice of God, allowing them to hear and respond to the transformative good news of the gospel. Through His life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus inaugurated the new creation where all brokenness, both physical and spiritual, is ultimately overcome, offering a foretaste of the complete restoration awaiting believers in the new heavens and new earth [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain"). He is the one through whom God's promise of wholeness, abundant life, and perfect perception is realized, inviting all to come and experience the opening of their eyes and ears to His glorious truth and saving grace.

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 42:6

I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;

Isaiah 42:7

To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, [and] them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.

Luke 7:20

When the men were come unto him, they said, John Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?

Luke 7:23

And blessed is [he], whosoever shall not be offended in me.

Isaiah 29:18

And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness.

Matthew 11:3

And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?

Matthew 11:5

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.