Isaiah 30:12-13

30:12 For this reason this is what the Holy One of Israel says:

“You have rejected this message;

you trust instead in your ability to oppress and trick,

and rely on that kind of behavior.

30:13 So this sin will become your downfall.

You will be like a high wall

that bulges and cracks and is ready to collapse;

it crumbles suddenly, in a flash.


tn The sentence actually begins with the word “because.” In the Hebrew text vv. 12-13 are one long sentence.

tn Heb “and you trust in oppression and cunning.”

tn Heb “and you lean on it”; NAB “and depend on it.”

tn The verse reads literally, “So this sin will become for you like a breach ready to fall, bulging on a high wall, the breaking of which comes suddenly, in a flash.” Their sin produces guilt and will result in judgment. Like a wall that collapses their fall will be swift and sudden.