Isaiah 40:20

He that is so impouerished that he hath no oblation, chooseth a tree that will not rot; he seeketh vnto him a cunning workeman, to prepare a grauen image that shall not be mooued. Isaiah 40:20 (KJV)

He that

is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree

that will not rot; he seeketh unto him a cunning workman to prepare a graven image,

that shall not be moved. Isaiah 40:20 (KJV)

The book of Isaiah is one of the major prophetic books of the Old Testament, containing both judgment and consolation. In chapter 40 the prophet addresses Israel after exile, opening with the comforting proclamation, “Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God” (Isaiah 40:1, KJV).

Isaiah 40:20 describes a person who, lacking the means for a proper oblation, chooses a tree that will not rot and hires a skilled craftsman to fashion a graven image that appears immovable. This reflects the practice of idolatry in the ancient Near East, where nations fashioned wooden or metal idols to represent their gods and offered sacrifices in hopes of divine favor.

The verse highlights the futility of such idol worship. By using perishable material and a human artisan, the idol cannot possess the power or permanence of the living God. The passage therefore serves as a reminder that man‑made images are empty and cannot replicate the authority of the true Creator.

Isaiah 40:20 also contrasts the impotence of these idols with the supremacy of God, whose creative power sustains all things. The surrounding verses emphasize God’s unchanging strength, urging worship that is directed toward the eternal God rather than toward lifeless statues.

The reference to an impoverished individual functions as a metaphor for spiritual poverty. True worship does not depend on material wealth or elaborate offerings; the Lord values a humble, contrite heart (Psalm 51:17) and seeks worshipers who approach Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23‑24).

Finally, the verse warns against placing trust in created things. Relying on idols or worldly possessions leads to misplaced confidence, whereas trusting in God alone reflects the broader biblical theme of faithfulness to the Creator.

In summary, Isaiah 40:20 cautions against the empty practice of idolatry, underscores the futility of trusting in man‑made images, and calls believers to genuine worship of the one true, all‑powerful God, whose value is measured not by material offerings but by a sincere heart.