Isaiah 44:20

He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?

Isaiah 44:20 (KJV)

Context

The book of Isaiah is a prophetic book in the Old Testament, written by the prophet Isaiah. This verse is part of a passage where Isaiah describes the folly of idolatry and contrasts it with the greatness and power of God. The passage warns against worshiping idols made by human hands and emphasizes the futility of relying on man-made gods.

Meaning

In Isaiah 44:20, the phrase “He feedeth on ashes” symbolizes the emptiness and worthlessness of idol worship. Just as ashes have no nutritional value, idols cannot provide any real satisfaction or fulfillment. The verse suggests that those who engage in idolatry are deceived in their hearts. They have been led astray and are unable to deliver their own souls from the spiritual emptiness and bondage that idolatry brings.

The latter part of the verse states that the deceived person cannot say, “Is there not a lie in my right hand?” This phrase highlights the fact that idols are essentially lies. They offer false promises of security, deliverance, and fulfillment but ultimately fail to deliver. The deceived person is unable to recognize the falsehood and the futility of trusting in idols.

Biblical connections

The immediate context of Isaiah 44:9-19 describes a man who cuts down a tree, uses part of the wood for fuel, and carves an idol from the rest, bowing down to worship it. Verse 20 delivers the verdict on this practice: the idolater feeds on ashes. The problem is not merely intellectual but moral and spiritual, for a deceived heart has turned him aside. This deception is so profound that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, “Is there not a lie in my right hand?” The verse demonstrates that idolatry is a spiritual trap: it promises sustenance but delivers ashes, promises truth but delivers a lie, and promises salvation but delivers bondage.

Application

While the context of this verse specifically addresses idol worship, we can draw broader spiritual lessons from it. It reminds us of the dangers of putting our trust and hope in anything other than God. It warns against the deceptive allure of worldly idols, which can take many forms such as material possessions, wealth, power, or even our own abilities. Placing our trust in these things instead of in God can lead to disappointment, emptiness, and spiritual bondage.

• True Deliverance and Freedom: The verse implies that true deliverance and freedom can only be found in recognizing the futility of idols and turning to God. Throughout the book of Isaiah, God is portrayed as the only true God, who alone has the power to save and deliver His people. In contrast to idols that cannot save, God offers forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ. By turning to Him in faith and surrendering our lives to Him, we can find true deliverance and experience the abundant life He offers.

Reflection

Isaiah 44:20 serves as a warning against idolatry and the deceitfulness of the human heart. It reminds us of the emptiness and powerlessness of idols and encourages us to place our trust in God alone. By recognising the futility of idols and turning to God, we can find true deliverance and freedom in Him.