What does "sport yourselves" mean in this context?

In Isaiah 57:4, "sport yourselves" (from the Hebrew word `ʻânag`, H6026) is used ironically or sarcastically. While the word can mean to delight or take pleasure, here it refers to the perverse amusement or mocking pleasure that the unfaithful derive from their acts of scorn and derision. They are taking delight in their rebellion and in openly ridiculing God's ways, His prophets, or His faithful followers. It highlights a deep spiritual perversion where what should be revered is instead treated with contempt, as seen in other passages describing the actions of the wicked, such as Psalm 2:4.

What is the significance of "children of transgression" and "seed of falsehood"?

These phrases are powerful metaphors that describe the spiritual identity and character of the unfaithful. "Children of transgression" (Hebrew: `yeled` H3206, `peshaʻ` H6588) indicates that rebellion and willful sin are not just occasional acts but are fundamental to their very being and origin. It suggests a deep-seated inclination towards breaking covenant with God. Similarly, "seed of falsehood" (Hebrew: `zeraʻ` H2233, `sheqer` H8267) means that deceit, lies, and untruth are inherent to their nature and heritage, defining their spiritual lineage. Together, these phrases convey that their actions of mockery and idolatry stem from a profoundly corrupted spiritual core, a pervasive spiritual dishonesty that contrasts sharply with the integrity and truth expected of God's people, who are called to be a "seed of righteousness" (Isaiah 61:11).

57:3 57:3

Isaiah 57:4

57:5 57:5

Bible Versions

Against whom do ye sport yourselves? against whom make ye a wide mouth, [and] draw out the tongue? [are] ye not children of transgression, a seed of falsehood,

Against whom do ye sport {H6026} yourselves? against whom make ye a wide {H7337} mouth {H6310}, and draw out {H748} the tongue {H3956}? are ye not children {H3206} of transgression {H6588}, a seed {H2233} of falsehood {H8267},

Whom are you making fun of? At whom are you laughing and sticking out your tongue? Aren't you rebellious children, just a brood of liars?

Whom are you mocking? At whom do you snarl and stick out your tongue? Are you not children of transgression, offspring of deceit,

Against whom do ye sport yourselves? against whom make ye a wide mouth, and put out the tongue? are ye not children of transgression, a seed of falsehood,

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.

Verse Lookup

Cross-References

2 Peter 2:13

And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, [as] they that count it pleasure to riot in the day time. Spots [they are] and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings while they feast with you;
Isaiah 1:4

Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.
Psalms 35:21

Yea, they opened their mouth wide against me, [and] said, Aha, aha, our eye hath seen [it].
Exodus 9:17

As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?
Isaiah 37:23

Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? and against whom hast thou exalted [thy] voice, and lifted up thine eyes on high? [even] against the Holy One of Israel.
Matthew 27:39

And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,
Matthew 27:44

The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.

Bible Versions

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