God mercifully provides hope in the midst of judgment.
In the midst of this prophecy concerning Damascus, the prophet Isaiah foretells a remnant that will remain after judgment, saying, “Yet gleanings will be left in it like the shaking of an olive tree, two or three olives on the topmost bough, four or five on the branches of a fruitful tree, declares the LORD, the God of Israel.” (v.6) The image of “gleanings” calls to mind the leftover produce remaining after harvest, reflecting God’s pattern of leaving a faithful portion even when devastation is widespread. In the wider context, Isaiah is prophesying around 730 BC to warn Israel’s enemies (and sometimes Israel itself) that despite discipline, the LORD’s preserving hand ensures the continuation of those who honor Him. This portion of Isaiah’s message speaks about Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the ancient world, recognized as the capital of Syria. Historically, this region was situated northeast of Israel, and during Isaiah’s time, it consistently vied for regional dominance. Even in the face of strong judgment, God promises that some measure of life, “two or three olives,” will remain, emphasizing His mercy toward those willing to turn to Him (compare Romans 9:27 in).
When Isaiah compares the future state of Damascus to an olive tree stripped almost bare—save for a few remaining olives—it underscores the theme of a small remnant that God preserves for a renewed and purposeful future. This image resonates throughout the Bible, as believers see God’s faithfulness in sustaining His people even under dire circumstances. The fruit-bearing branches echo Jesus’ own words in the New Testament, where He describes how God prunes branches to foster new growth (see John 15:2 in). Isaiah’s focus on the few olives left “on the branches of a fruitful tree” portrays not only the aftermath of judgment but also hints at the possibility of transformation whenever repentance is present. Through the centuries, readers have drawn encouragement from this verse, perceiving it as a testament of God’s capacity to restore a devastated situation back to life.
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Isaiah 17:6 meaning
In the midst of this prophecy concerning Damascus, the prophet Isaiah foretells a remnant that will remain after judgment, saying, “Yet gleanings will be left in it like the shaking of an olive tree, two or three olives on the topmost bough, four or five on the branches of a fruitful tree, declares the LORD, the God of Israel.” (v.6) The image of “gleanings” calls to mind the leftover produce remaining after harvest, reflecting God’s pattern of leaving a faithful portion even when devastation is widespread. In the wider context, Isaiah is prophesying around 730 BC to warn Israel’s enemies (and sometimes Israel itself) that despite discipline, the LORD’s preserving hand ensures the continuation of those who honor Him. This portion of Isaiah’s message speaks about Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the ancient world, recognized as the capital of Syria. Historically, this region was situated northeast of Israel, and during Isaiah’s time, it consistently vied for regional dominance. Even in the face of strong judgment, God promises that some measure of life, “two or three olives,” will remain, emphasizing His mercy toward those willing to turn to Him (compare Romans 9:27 in).
When Isaiah compares the future state of Damascus to an olive tree stripped almost bare—save for a few remaining olives—it underscores the theme of a small remnant that God preserves for a renewed and purposeful future. This image resonates throughout the Bible, as believers see God’s faithfulness in sustaining His people even under dire circumstances. The fruit-bearing branches echo Jesus’ own words in the New Testament, where He describes how God prunes branches to foster new growth (see John 15:2 in). Isaiah’s focus on the few olives left “on the branches of a fruitful tree” portrays not only the aftermath of judgment but also hints at the possibility of transformation whenever repentance is present. Through the centuries, readers have drawn encouragement from this verse, perceiving it as a testament of God’s capacity to restore a devastated situation back to life.