New International VersionWoe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.
New Living TranslationWhat sorrow for those who get up early in the morning looking for a drink of alcohol and spend long evenings drinking wine to make themselves flaming drunk.
English Standard VersionWoe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may run after strong drink, who tarry late into the evening as wine inflames them!
Berean Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, who linger into the evening, to be inflamed by wine.
King James BibleWoe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!
New King James VersionWoe to those who rise early in the morning, That they may follow intoxicating drink; Who continue until night, till wine inflames them!
New American Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning so that they may pursue intoxicating drink, Who stay up late in the evening so that wine may inflame them!
NASB 1995Woe to those who rise early in the morning that they may pursue strong drink, Who stay up late in the evening that wine may inflame them!
NASB 1977Woe to those who rise early in the morning that they may pursue strong drink; Who stay up late in the evening that wine may inflame them!
Legacy Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning that they may pursue strong drink, Who stay up late in the evening that wine may inflame them!
Amplified BibleWoe (judgment is coming) to those who rise early in the morning to pursue intoxicating drink, Who stay up late in the night till wine inflames them!
Christian Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of beer, who linger into the evening, inflamed by wine.
Holman Christian Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of beer, who linger into the evening, inflamed by wine.
American Standard VersionWoe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that tarry late into the night, till wine inflame them!
Contemporary English VersionYou are in for trouble! You get up early to start drinking, and you keep it up late into the night.
English Revised VersionWoe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that tarry late into the night, till wine inflame them!
GOD'S WORD® TranslationHow horrible it will be for those who get up early to look for a drink, who sit up late until they are drunk from wine.
Good News TranslationYou are doomed! You get up early in the morning to start drinking, and you spend long evenings getting drunk.
International Standard Version"How terrible it will be for those who rise at dawn in order to grab a stiff drink, for those who stay up late at night as wine inflames them!
NET BibleThose who get up early to drink beer are as good as dead, those who keep drinking long after dark until they are intoxicated with wine.
New Heart English BibleWoe to those who rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; who stay late into the night, until wine inflames them.
Webster's Bible TranslationWoe to them that rise early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflameth them! Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWoe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, who linger into the evening, to be inflamed by wine.
World English BibleWoe to those who rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink, who stay late into the night, until wine inflames them! Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionWoe [to] those rising early in the morning, "" They pursue strong drink! Lingering in twilight, wine inflames them!
Young's Literal Translation Woe to those rising early in the morning, Strong drink they pursue! Tarrying in twilight, wine inflameth them!
Smith's Literal TranslationWo to those rising early in the morning, they will follow strong drink; remaining in the evening, wine will inflame them. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleWoe to you that rise up early in the morning to follow drunkenness, and to drink till the evening, to be inflamed with wine.
Catholic Public Domain VersionWoe to you who rise up in the morning to pursue drunkenness, and to drink even until evening, so as to be inflamed with wine.
New American BibleAh! Those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, lingering late inflamed by wine,
New Revised Standard VersionAh, you who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drink, who linger in the evening to be inflamed by wine, Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleWoe to them who rise up early in the morning, and run after strong drink; that continue drinking until night, till wine inflames them!
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedWoe to those who rise at dawn and run to liquor and stay up late in the evening and wine inflames them! OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, That they may follow strong drink; That tarry late into the night, Till wine inflame them!
Brenton Septuagint TranslationWoe to them that rise up in the morning, and follow strong drink; who wait at it till evening: for the wine shall inflame them.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Woes to the Wicked… 10For ten acres of vineyard will yield but a bath of wine, and a homer of seed only an ephah of grain.” 11Woeto those who rise earlyin the morningin pursuit ofstrong drink,who lingerinto the evening,to be inflamedby wine.12At their feasts are the lyre and harp, tambourines and flutes and wine. They disregard the actions of the LORD and fail to see the work of His hands.…
Cross References Proverbs 23:29-35Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has needless wounds? Who has bloodshot eyes? / Those who linger over wine, who go to taste mixed drinks. / Do not gaze at wine while it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. ...
Habakkuk 2:15-16Woe to him who gives drink to his neighbors, pouring it from the wineskin until they are drunk, in order to gaze at their nakedness! / You will be filled with shame instead of glory. You too must drink and expose your uncircumcision! The cup in the LORD’s right hand will come around to you, and utter disgrace will cover your glory.
Ephesians 5:18Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
Proverbs 20:1Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
1 Corinthians 6:10nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
Hosea 4:11to promiscuity, wine, and new wine, which take away understanding.
Galatians 5:21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Amos 6:3-6You dismiss the day of calamity and bring near a reign of violence. / You lie on beds inlaid with ivory, and lounge upon your couches. You dine on lambs from the flock and calves from the stall. / You improvise songs on the harp like David and invent your own musical instruments. ...
Romans 13:13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
1 Peter 4:3For you have spent enough time in the past carrying out the same desires as the Gentiles: living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing, and detestable idolatry.
Joel 1:5Wake up, you drunkards, and weep; wail, all you drinkers of wine, because of the sweet wine, for it has been cut off from your mouth.
Luke 21:34But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare.
Micah 2:11If a man of wind were to come and say falsely, “I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,” he would be just the preacher for this people!
1 Thessalonians 5:7For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night.
Nahum 1:10For they will be entangled as with thorns and consumed like the drink of a drunkard—like stubble that is fully dry.
Treasury of Scripture Woe to them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them! rise Isaiah 5:22 Woe untothem that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink: Isaiah 28:1 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beautyis a fading flower, whichare on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine! Proverbs 23:29,30 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? … inflame. Isaiah 28:7,8 But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumblein judgment… Proverbs 20:1 Wineis a mocker, strong drinkis raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise. Proverbs 23:32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Jump to Previous ContinueCursedDrinkDrinkingDrinksEarlyEveningFarFollowHeatedInflameInflamedLateMorningNightPursueRiseRisingRunStrongTarryTarryingThemselvesTwilightWineWoWoeJump to Next ContinueCursedDrinkDrinkingDrinksEarlyEveningFarFollowHeatedInflameInflamedLateMorningNightPursueRiseRisingRunStrongTarryTarryingThemselvesTwilightWineWoWoeIsaiah 5 1.Under the parable of a vineyard, God excuses his severe judgment8.His judgments upon covetousness11.Upon lasciviousness13.Upon impiety20.And upon injustice26.The executioners of God's judgmentsWoe to those who rise early in the morning in pursuit of strong drinkThe term "woe" is a prophetic declaration of judgment and lamentation, often used by prophets to signal impending doom or divine displeasure. In the context of Isaiah, it serves as a warning to the people of Judah who have turned away from God. Rising early in pursuit of strong drink indicates a lifestyle dominated by indulgence and addiction, suggesting a prioritization of pleasure over spiritual and moral responsibilities. This behavior reflects a deeper spiritual malaise, as seen in Proverbs 23:29-35, which warns against the dangers of excessive drinking. The pursuit of strong drink symbolizes a broader societal decay, where immediate gratification is sought over long-term faithfulness to God. who linger into the evening
Lingering into the evening suggests a continuous, unbroken indulgence in alcohol, highlighting a life consumed by excess. This behavior is indicative of a lack of self-control and discipline, which are virtues extolled throughout Scripture (Galatians 5:22-23). The cultural context of ancient Israel placed significant value on moderation and self-restraint, as seen in the Nazarite vow (Numbers 6:1-4), which included abstaining from wine. The persistent indulgence from morning to evening underscores a rejection of these values and a descent into moral and spiritual apathy. to be inflamed by wine
Being inflamed by wine suggests a loss of reason and self-control, leading to destructive behavior. This phrase captures the idea of being consumed or controlled by one's desires, a theme echoed inEphesians 5:18, which contrasts being filled with the Spirit with being drunk on wine. The imagery of fire and inflammation can also be seen as a metaphor for judgment, as fire often represents God's purifying and consuming judgment in Scripture (Hebrews 12:29). The excessive consumption of wine, leading to a state of being inflamed, serves as a warning against allowing any substance or desire to take precedence over one's devotion to God. Persons / Places / Events 1. IsaiahThe prophet who authored the book, delivering God's messages to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. 2. Judah and JerusalemThe primary audience of Isaiah's prophecies, representing the Southern Kingdom of Israel. 3. The People of JudahThose being warned in this passage, specifically those indulging in excessive drinking and neglecting God's commands. Teaching Points The Dangers of ExcessIsaiah warns against the pursuit of strong drink, highlighting the dangers of excess and addiction. Believers are called to exercise self-control and moderation. Spiritual AlertnessThe passage emphasizes the need for spiritual alertness. Intoxication dulls the senses and can lead to moral and spiritual decay. Prioritizing GodThe pursuit of pleasure, such as excessive drinking, can become an idol that takes precedence over God. Believers are encouraged to seek God first in all things. Consequences of SinThe "woe" pronounced by Isaiah serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin. God's judgment is real, and His warnings should be heeded. Living a Holy LifeChristians are called to live a life that reflects God's holiness, avoiding behaviors that lead to spiritual compromise. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Isaiah 5:11?
2.How does Isaiah 5:11 warn against prioritizing pleasure over spiritual responsibilities?
3.What consequences arise from "rise early to pursue strong drink" in Isaiah 5:11?
4.How can Isaiah 5:11 guide Christians in managing their time and priorities?
5.What other Scriptures warn against excessive indulgence similar to Isaiah 5:11?
6.How can believers apply Isaiah 5:11 to avoid modern-day distractions and temptations?
7.What does Isaiah 5:11 reveal about the dangers of excessive drinking and indulgence?
8.How does Isaiah 5:11 reflect on the moral decline of society?
9.What historical context influenced the message in Isaiah 5:11?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Isaiah 5?
11.What does the Bible say about alcohol consumption?
12.What is the Christian Perspective on drinking wine?
13.What does communion symbolize in Christian faith?
14.What does the Bible say about alcohol consumption?What Does Isaiah 5:11 Mean Woe to those“Woe” is God’s solemn announcement of impending judgment. It carries both grief and warning, much like Jesus’ woes inMatthew 23:13–36. When the Lord pronounces a woe, He is not merely expressing displeasure; He is declaring that sin has consequences (Isaiah 10:1–3;Revelation 8:13). Here the target is a specific lifestyle of unchecked indulgence. The seriousness of the word reminds us that the Creator cares deeply about the way His people live (Deuteronomy 30:19).
who rise early in the morningThe behavior starts at dawn. Instead of greeting the day with praise (Psalm 5:3) or seeking wisdom (Proverbs 8:17), these people jump straight into self-gratification. Isaiah highlights the priority they give to alcohol, revealing a heart set on pleasure rather than on God (Matthew 6:33). Early pursuit shows premeditation—this is not an occasional lapse but a daily habit.
in pursuit of strong drink“Strong drink” refers to fermented beverages beyond simple wine, signaling excessive consumption (Proverbs 20:1). The chase is deliberate: they are “in pursuit.” Scripture often contrasts diligent pursuit of righteousness with the reckless chase after sin (1 Timothy 6:11). By pouring time, money, and energy into alcohol, they make it an idol (Ephesians 5:18), trading the Holy Spirit’s fullness for a counterfeit thrill.
who linger into the eveningThe day ends as it began—under the influence. Lingering suggests long, drawn-out parties that swallow the hours meant for work, worship, and family (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). Their entire schedule bows to the bottle, echoing the “days of Noah” when people “were eating and drinking” right up to the flood (Matthew 24:38). Persistent indulgence dulls spiritual sensitivity (Luke 21:34-36).
to be inflamed by wineThe goal is intoxication. Wine becomes a fire that consumes self-control, leading to moral blindness (Hosea 4:11). The Old Testament repeatedly links drunkenness with disgrace—Noah’s shame (Genesis 9:20-24), Lot’s tragedy (Genesis 19:30-38). In contrast, God calls His people to sobriety so they can discern His voice (1 Peter 5:8;Romans 13:13-14).
summaryIsaiah 5:11 exposes a life driven by appetite rather than allegiance to God. From sunrise to sunset, the drinker’s schedule, priorities, and passions revolve around alcohol. The Lord’s “woe” warns that such a path ends in judgment and loss. He invites us instead to seek Him early, walk in His Spirit, and find lasting joy that no cup of wine can match. (11) Woe unto them that rise up early.--The same class as in Isaiah 5:8 meets us under another aspect. In Judah, as elsewhere, the oppressors were conspicuous for their luxury ( Amos 6:5-6). They shocked public feeling by morning banquets ( Ecclesiastes 10:16-17; Acts 2:14). Not wine only, but the "strong drink" made from honey and from dates and other fruits (possibly including, as a generic term, the beer for which Egypt was famous) was seen on their tables. The morning feast was followed, perhaps with hardly a break, by an evening revel. (Comp. Isaiah 22:13; Isaiah 28:7.) . . . Verse 11. - Woe unto them that... follow strong drink. We have here the second woe. It is pronounced on drunkenness and revelry. Drunkenness is an infrequent Oriental vice; but it seems to have been one whereto many among the Jews were at all times prone (see Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 23:29-32; Ecclesiastes 10:17; Hosea 4:11; Isaiah 28:7, etc.). Even the priests and the soi-disant prophets erred through strong drink and were swallowed up of wine" ( Isaiah 28:7). That rise up early in the morning. Great banquets were held by the "princes" and "nobles," beginning at an early hour ( Ecclesiastes 10:10), and accompanied by music of an exciting kind ( Amos 6:5, 6), which were " continued until night," or rather, "into the night" (Revised Version), and terminated in general drunkenness, perhaps in general licentiousness. (See Proverbs 23:27-30 and Hosea 4:11 for the connection of inebriety with whoredom.) Two kinds of intoxicating liquor seem to have been consumed at these banquets, viz. ordinary grape wine, and a much stronger drink, which is said to have been "made of dates, pomegranates, apples, honey, barley, and other ingredients," which was known as shekar (Greek, σίκερα), and is called "strong drink" in the Authorized Version. Till wine inflame them; or, the wine inflaming them.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Woeה֛וֹי(hō·w)Interjection
Strong's 1945:Ah! alas! ha!to those who rise earlyמַשְׁכִּימֵ֥י(maš·kî·mê)Verb - Hifil - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 7925:To load up, to start early in the morningin the morningבַבֹּ֖קֶר(ḇab·bō·qer)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1242:Dawn, morningin pursuit ofיִרְדֹּ֑פוּ(yir·dō·p̄ū)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 7291:To pursue, chase, persecutestrong drink,שֵׁכָ֣ר(šê·ḵār)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7941:An intoxicant, intensely alcoholic liquorwho lingerמְאַחֲרֵ֣י(mə·’a·ḥă·rê)Verb - Piel - Participle - masculine plural construct
Strong's 309:To loiter, to procrastinateinto the evening,בַנֶּ֔שֶׁף(ḇan·ne·šep̄)Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5399:A breeze, duskto be inflamedיַדְלִיקֵֽם׃(yaḏ·lî·qêm)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine plural
Strong's 1814:To burn, hotly pursueby wine.יַ֖יִן(ya·yin)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3196:Wine, intoxication
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OT Prophets: Isaiah 5:11 Woe to those who rise up early (Isa Isi Is) |
