Isaiah 8:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Isaiah commits to patient trust in God, even when God's presence seems hidden, and to watchful expectation of His return.
The Context of Isaiah 8:17
In the midst of judgment and the hiddenness of God, Isaiah models faithful expectation and patient trust.
What Does Isaiah 8:17 Mean?
Isaiah acknowledges a difficult truth: God's face is 'hid' from the house of Jacob. The nation experiences divine hiddenness—a withdrawn presence during times of judgment and exile. Yet Isaiah's response is not despair or accusation, but steadfast waiting. He will 'wait upon the LORD' even in the darkness, trusting that God's apparent absence is temporary and purposeful.
The parallel structure—'I will wait upon...and I will look for him'—shows active, engaged trust. Isaiah is not passively resigned, but actively looking, watching, expectant. This waiting and watching is not weakness but the deepest spiritual strength: the ability to trust God's purpose even when His face is hidden, and to remain alert for His return and restoration of His presence to Jacob.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 8:17
What does Isaiah 8:17 mean?
Isaiah commits to patient trust in God, even when God's presence seems hidden, and to watchful expectation of His return.
What is the context of Isaiah 8:17?
In the midst of judgment and the hiddenness of God, Isaiah models faithful expectation and patient trust.