Summary
In Isaiah 5 the prophet describes the LORD as a vineyard owner who has tended a fruitful hill, planted the best vines, and built a tower and winepress, yet the vineyard yields only wild grapes. He calls on the people of Jerusalem and Judah to judge between himself and his vineyard, lamenting the lack of fruitful results. The LORD declares he will dismantle the hedge and walls, bring ruin, allow thorns to grow, and deny rain, condemning Israel’s unrighteousness and oppressive practices. He then lists woes against those who oppress, indulge in drunkenness, ignore divine law, and corrupt judgment, while also warning that the righteous will be humbled but the LORD will ultimately be exalted in judgment. The chapter concludes with a vivid depiction of God’s wrath—fire consuming the stubble, bodies torn, and nations brought down—yet hints at divine intervention and future vindication.