Isaiah 65:5

KJV

Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These [are] a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.

KJV (with Strong's)

Which say {H559}, Stand {H7126} by thyself, come not near {H5066} to me; for I am holier {H6942} than thou. These are a smoke {H6227} in my nose {H639}, a fire {H784} that burneth {H3344} all the day {H3117}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They say, 'Keep your distance, don't come near me, because I am holier than you.' These are smoke in my nose, a fire that burns all day!

Berean Standard Bible

They say, ‘Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am holier than you!’ Such people are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long.

American Standard Version

that say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me, for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 65:5 powerfully indicts a segment of God's people who, despite outward religious observances, harbored deep spiritual pride and hypocrisy, claiming a superior holiness that isolated them from others. This self-exalting attitude, characterized by a "holier than thou" disposition, is met with God's profound and continuous displeasure, described as an irritating "smoke in my nose" and an unceasing "fire that burneth all the day," revealing His utter abhorrence for such self-righteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a significant prophetic discourse in [Isaiah 65](/isaiah/65 "Isaiah 65 - God's Judgment and Promise of New Heavens and New Earth"), where the prophet articulates God's lament over Israel's persistent rebellion and idolatry, contrasting it with His unwavering faithfulness and the promise of a renewed future for a faithful remnant. The preceding verses, specifically [Isaiah 65:2-4](/isaiah/65-2-4 "Isaiah 65:2-4 - Israel's Rebellion and Idolatry"), detail the abominable practices of those who "provoke me to anger continually to my face," engaging in pagan rituals, sacrificing in gardens, burning incense on altars of brick, dwelling among graves, and eating forbidden meats. Verse 5 acts as a sharp rhetorical turn, highlighting the shocking hypocrisy of these very individuals who, despite their profound spiritual corruption, arrogantly proclaim their own superior purity. This creates a stark juxtaposition between their outward pretense and inward depravity, setting the stage for God's severe judgment upon them, which is then detailed in the subsequent verses of the chapter.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Isaiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of several kings, including Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. This era was marked by significant political instability, the rise of Assyria as a dominant power, and pervasive spiritual decline within Judah. Despite the warnings of prophets like Isaiah, many Israelites succumbed to syncretism, blending their worship of Yahweh with pagan practices borrowed from surrounding nations. The specific practices mentioned in [Isaiah 65:2-4](/isaiah/65-2-4 "Isaiah 65:2-4 - Israel's Rebellion and Idolatry"), such as sacrificing in gardens and dwelling among graves, reflect ancient Near Eastern fertility cults and necromancy, which were strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law. In this context, the "holier than thou" attitude of verse 5 likely refers to a group, possibly a priestly or aristocratic class, who maintained an outward show of ritual purity or adherence to certain traditions, while simultaneously engaging in or condoning deep-seated idolatry and moral corruption. Their self-proclaimed holiness was a social and religious barrier, not a genuine spiritual state, serving to elevate themselves above those they deemed "unclean" or less righteous.
* **Key Themes:** [Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **Spiritual Arrogance and Hypocrisy**, revealing God's profound displeasure with those who prioritize outward show and self-exaltation over genuine humility and obedience. This false piety stands in stark contrast to the true righteousness that God desires, a righteousness that is not self-generated but comes from Him, as articulated in passages like [Isaiah 64:6](/isaiah/64-6 "Isaiah 64:6 - Our Righteousness is Filthy Rags"). Secondly, the verse highlights **God's Utter Displeasure and Righteous Judgment** against sin, particularly against the insidious nature of spiritual pride. The imagery of "smoke in my nose" and "fire that burneth all the day" vividly portrays God's continuous and intense indignation. Finally, implicitly, the verse points to the **Nature of True Holiness**, which is characterized by humility, a contrite spirit, and a genuine relationship with God, rather than by ritualistic superiority or judgmentalism, a theme echoed throughout the prophetic literature and later in the New Testament, as seen in [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Holier (Hebrew, _qâdash'_):** This word (H6942) fundamentally means "to be clean (ceremonially or morally)," "to consecrate," or "to sanctify." In this context, the participle "holier" describes those who *claim* to be ritually or morally purer than others. It highlights a self-proclaimed, rather than God-imparted, state of holiness, emphasizing the arrogance and presumption of the individuals. Their declaration, "I am holier than thou," is a perversion of true holiness, turning it into a tool for self-exaltation and segregation rather than a state of humble devotion to God.
* **Smoke (Hebrew, _ʻâshân'_):** This term (H6227) refers to smoke, literally or figuratively (vapor, dust, anger). Here, in the phrase "a smoke in my nose," it vividly portrays God's intense irritation and disgust. Smoke in the nose is an unpleasant, irritating sensation, causing discomfort and a desire to expel it. It's a powerful metaphor for God's profound revulsion and annoyance at the spiritual arrogance and hypocrisy of these individuals, indicating that their self-righteousness is not just offensive but actively bothersome to Him.
* **Nose (Hebrew, _ʼaph'_):** While literally meaning "nose" or "nostril" (H639), this word often serves as a metonym for "anger" or "wrath," stemming from the physiological manifestation of rapid breathing or flaring nostrils during intense emotion. In conjunction with "smoke," "my nose" (literally "in My nose") conveys the direct and personal nature of God's indignation. It's not a detached judgment but an immediate, visceral reaction of divine wrath against their offensive behavior, emphasizing the depth of His displeasure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou."**: This clause reveals the arrogant and exclusive attitude of the self-righteous. The command "Stand by thyself, come not near to me" indicates a desire for segregation, a refusal to associate with others whom they deem less pure or righteous. The justification, "for I am holier than thou," is the crux of their spiritual pride, a declaration of perceived moral or ritual superiority that isolates them and elevates themselves above their fellow human beings and, implicitly, above God's true standard of holiness. This statement is a direct affront to God, who alone is truly holy and the source of all holiness.
* **"These [are] a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day."**: This clause expresses God's divine response to such spiritual arrogance. The imagery of "a smoke in my nose" powerfully conveys God's intense irritation, disgust, and profound displeasure. It's an unpleasant, irritating sensation that God finds utterly repugnant. The subsequent phrase, "a fire that burneth all the day," amplifies this divine indignation, suggesting a continuous, unceasing, and consuming wrath. This "fire" is not merely a fleeting emotion but a persistent, burning anger against the hypocrisy and self-exaltation that characterizes these individuals. It underscores the severity and enduring nature of God's judgment against such offensive behavior.

#### Literary Devices
[Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness") employs several potent **literary devices** to convey God's message. The most prominent is **Imagery**, particularly the vivid portrayal of God's reaction: "a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day." This sensory language immediately evokes discomfort and irritation, allowing the reader to grasp the intensity of God's displeasure. The "smoke" is a **metaphor** for an irritating, offensive presence, while the "fire that burneth all the day" is both **hyperbole** and **metaphor** for continuous, unceasing wrath. This isn't a momentary annoyance but a deep, abiding indignation. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in the verse; those who claim to be "holier" are, in God's eyes, utterly defiling and provoke His continuous anger, demonstrating the stark contrast between human pretense and divine reality. The direct speech "Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou" employs **dialogue** to characterize the arrogant individuals, making their offensive attitude palpable and immediate.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness") serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of true holiness versus self-righteousness. It reveals that God abhors spiritual pride and hypocrisy more than outward ritualistic failings, especially when such pride leads to judgment and exclusion of others. True holiness, in God's eyes, is not a self-proclaimed status achieved through human effort or comparison, but a state of humility and dependence on Him, leading to genuine obedience and love for others. The "holier than thou" attitude is a direct affront to God's character, as it mimics His sovereignty and judges those He loves. This verse foreshadows the consistent condemnation of self-righteousness found throughout Scripture, emphasizing that God looks upon the heart, not merely outward appearances.

* [Proverbs 16:5](/proverbs/16-5 "Proverbs 16:5 - God Abhors the Proud")
* [Luke 18:9-14](/luke/18-9-14 "Luke 18:9-14 - The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector")
* [Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Jesus' Condemnation of Hypocrisy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness") stands as a timeless warning against the insidious nature of spiritual pride, a sin that can subtly infect even those who appear devout. It challenges us to deeply examine our hearts, asking whether our perceived holiness stems from a genuine, humble walk with God or from a self-congratulatory comparison with others. True faith cultivates humility, recognizing that any righteousness we possess is a gift from God, not a badge earned through our own efforts or superior moral standing. This verse calls us to dismantle any walls of judgmentalism or exclusivity we might build, reminding us that God desires authentic love and compassion, not a haughty declaration of our own perceived purity. It encourages a posture of grace and welcome towards others, understanding that we are all in need of God's mercy, and that our calling is to build up, not tear down, the body of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be subtly exhibiting a "holier than thou" attitude towards others?**
* **How does my understanding of holiness align with God's perspective as revealed in this verse? Is it focused on self-exaltation or humble devotion?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate genuine humility and avoid spiritual pride in my interactions with others and my walk with God?**

### FAQ
**What does "a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day" mean in relation to God?**

Answer: This vivid imagery describes God's intense, continuous, and personal displeasure with the self-righteous and hypocritical. "A smoke in my nose" (from the Hebrew word `ʼaph` for "nose," which also signifies anger) conveys a strong sense of irritation and disgust, much like an unpleasant smell or smoke that causes discomfort and a desire to expel it. It shows that their spiritual arrogance is not just a minor offense but something actively repugnant to God. "A fire that burneth all the day" amplifies this, indicating that God's indignation is not fleeting but constant and consuming, a persistent wrath against their offensive behavior. It underscores the severity and enduring nature of His judgment against those who claim a false holiness while engaging in rebellion against Him, as seen in the broader context of [Isaiah 65](/isaiah/65 "Isaiah 65 - God's Judgment and Promise of New Heavens and New Earth").

**Why is spiritual pride so offensive to God, according to this verse?**

Answer: Spiritual pride, as exemplified by the "holier than thou" attitude in [Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness"), is profoundly offensive to God because it usurps His unique prerogative as the Holy One and the sole source of true righteousness. When individuals claim superior holiness, they are essentially elevating themselves, judging others, and creating divisions, rather than humbly seeking God's grace and extending it to others. This attitude is a form of idolatry, as it places self at the center rather than God. It contradicts the very nature of true faith, which calls for humility, dependence on God's mercy, and a recognition that "all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags" before Him ([Isaiah 64:6](/isaiah/64-6 "Isaiah 64:6 - Our Righteousness is Filthy Rags")). God desires a contrite and humble spirit ([Psalm 51:17](/psalm/51-17 "Psalm 51:17 - A Broken and Contrite Heart")) and despises the proud ([Proverbs 16:5](/proverbs/16-5 "Proverbs 16:5 - God Abhors the Proud")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Isaiah 65:5](/isaiah/65-5 "Isaiah 65:5 - God's Displeasure with Self-Righteousness"), with its condemnation of self-righteousness and false holiness, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "holier than thou" attitude described here is precisely what Jesus consistently confronted in the religious leaders of His day, particularly the Pharisees, who meticulously observed external rituals while neglecting the weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness ([Matthew 23:23](/matthew/23-23 "Matthew 23:23 - Woe to the Scribes and Pharisees")). Unlike those who claimed their own purity and demanded separation, Jesus embodied true holiness through perfect humility and self-sacrifice, drawing near to the very outcasts and "sinners" whom the self-righteous avoided ([Luke 15:1-2](/luke/15-1-2 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Welcomes Sinners")). His life demonstrated that genuine holiness is not about self-exaltation or ritualistic exclusion, but about loving God and loving neighbor, even to the point of death on a cross. Through His perfect obedience and atoning sacrifice, Christ became our righteousness, offering a holiness that is imputed, not self-generated ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Thus, the "smoke in God's nose" caused by human pride is extinguished by the sweet aroma of Christ's perfect offering, and His followers are called not to a self-proclaimed holiness, but to a humble, Spirit-empowered life that reflects the grace and love of their Savior, who came not to be served, but to serve ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")).

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

Luke 18:9

¶ And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

Luke 18:12

I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

Luke 7:39

Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw [it], he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman [this is] that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.

Proverbs 16:5

¶ Every one [that is] proud in heart [is] an abomination to the LORD: [though] hand [join] in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

Romans 2:17

¶ Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,

Romans 2:29

But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.

Luke 15:28

And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.