Definition: And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important and often-interpreted verse from Isaiah 1:15. It’s a really powerful warning about the dangers of seeking help or focusing on prayer in a way that could lead to harm. Here's a breakdown in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse isn’t about literal blood – it’s not suggesting physical violence. Instead, it speaks to a situation where excessive and unproductive prayer can be destructive. It warns against focusing on things that are ultimately harmful or lead to conflict. Let's unpack the meaning piece by piece: “And when ye spread forth your hands…” : This refers to action . It suggests reaching out for help, seeking forgiveness, or trying to solve a problem through pleading or demanding. "...I will hide mine eyes from you:" This is a metaphorical statement. God is saying that He will deliberately not hear your prayers. It’s like He’s withdrawing His attention from you. It implies that your prayers are not being acknowledged or answered. “Yea, when ye make many prayers…” : This emphasizes the quantity of prayer – a large number of prayers without a clear purpose or understanding. "...I will not hear:" This is the crucial part. God is saying that He won't listen to your requests, concerns, or pleas. He’s refusing to offer guidance or support. “Your hands are full of blood.” : This is the most disturbing image. It suggests that focusing on conflict, anger, or seeking revenge through prayer can lead to violence and destruction – a metaphorical “blood” representing pain and harm. What does it mean practically? The verse warns against: Seeking attention: Constantly demanding someone’s focus or sympathy. Unrealistic Expectations: Hoping for immediate answers or solutions that are beyond your ability to achieve. Focusing on negativity: Dwelling on problems without seeking hope or forgiveness. Acting out of anger or resentment: Praying with a burning desire for revenge, which can escalate conflict. The Context in the Bible: Isaiah 1:15 is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of seeking to control or manipulate others through prayer. It’s a reminder that true peace and justice come from loving and understanding others, not from demanding them to comply with your wishes. It speaks to the importance of humility and avoiding actions that could cause harm. In short: The verse urges us to be mindful of our prayers – that they should be focused on positive outcomes, forgiveness, and peace, rather than seeking attention or causing conflict. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore its connection to other biblical teachings about forgiveness?