Charles Ellicott Commentary Isaiah 44:21

Charles Ellicott Commentary

Isaiah 44:21

1819–1905
Anglican
Charles Ellicott
Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott Commentary

Isaiah 44:21

1819–1905
Anglican
SCRIPTURE

"Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel; for thou art my servant: I have formed thee; thou art my servant: O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten of me." — Isaiah 44:21 (ASV)

Remember these. — Better, these things — that is, the whole argument against idolatry. In contrast with the blind worshippers of idols, Israel is addressed in its ideal character as the “servant of Jehovah,” with all the emphasis of repetition.

Thou shalt not be forgotten of me. — The Septuagint, Vulgate, and some other versions take the verb as middle, thou shalt not forget, but the evidence for the passive sense is stronger, not to mention its greater suitability in connection with the next verse, and its relevance to complaints like those in Isaiah 40:27 and Isaiah 49:14.