Isaiah 65:5

They say, 'Keep to yourself; do not come near me, for I am holier than you!' Such people are smoke in My nostrils, a fire that burns all day long.

Study Bible

They say
This phrase introduces the self-righteous attitude of the people being addressed. In the Hebrew text, the verb implies a continuous action, suggesting that this is a habitual declaration. Historically, this reflects the attitude of certain groups within Israel who believed themselves to be spiritually superior, often leading to division and exclusion within the community.

Keep to yourself
The Hebrew root here conveys a sense of separation or withdrawal. This phrase indicates an attitude of exclusivity and self-imposed isolation, which is contrary to the communal and inclusive nature of God's covenant with Israel. It reflects a misunderstanding of holiness, which is meant to draw people closer to God and each other, not push them apart.

do not come near me
This phrase further emphasizes the exclusivity and arrogance of the speaker. The historical context suggests a group that considered themselves ritually pure and others as impure. This attitude is reminiscent of the Pharisaical mindset criticized by Jesus in the New Testament, where outward piety masked inner corruption.

for I am holier than you
The claim of being "holier" is a self-assessment that lacks divine endorsement. The Hebrew word for "holy" (qadosh) is used here ironically. True holiness in the biblical sense is a reflection of God's character and is marked by humility and love, not pride and exclusion. This phrase highlights the danger of self-righteousness, which blinds individuals to their own need for grace.

These people are smoke in My nostrils
The imagery of "smoke" suggests something irritating and unpleasant. In ancient Near Eastern culture, smoke was often associated with sacrifice, but here it is used negatively. This metaphor indicates that the self-righteousness of the people is offensive to God, much like smoke that causes discomfort and displeasure.

a fire that burns all day long
The "fire" symbolizes God's anger and judgment. In the Hebrew Bible, fire often represents God's presence and purifying judgment. The continuous burning "all day long" suggests the persistent nature of the people's sin and God's ongoing displeasure. This serves as a warning that self-righteousness and hypocrisy are not overlooked by God but are subject to His righteous judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah and spoke of both judgment and redemption.

2. God
The speaker in this verse, expressing His displeasure with the self-righteousness of the people.

3. The People of Israel
The primary audience of Isaiah's message, often rebuked for their hypocrisy and idolatry.

4. Jerusalem
The central city of worship for the Israelites, often a focal point in Isaiah's prophecies.

5. The Self-Righteous
Individuals who consider themselves more holy than others, leading to God's rebuke.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Self-Righteousness
Self-righteousness is offensive to God and likened to smoke in His nostrils. It leads to spiritual pride and alienation from God.

True Holiness Comes from God
Holiness is not self-generated but is a result of God's work in us. We must rely on His grace and not our own perceived righteousness.

Humility in Our Walk with God
We are called to walk humbly with God, recognizing our own need for His mercy and grace.

Community and Fellowship
Self-righteousness isolates us from others. We are called to live in community, encouraging and uplifting one another in faith.

Repentance and Restoration
God desires repentance and offers restoration. We must turn from self-righteousness and seek His forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Isaiah 65:5 challenge our understanding of personal holiness and self-righteousness?

2. In what ways can we guard against the attitude of being "holier than thou" in our daily lives?

3. How does the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14 relate to the message in Isaiah 65:5?

4. What practical steps can we take to foster humility and reliance on God's grace rather than our own righteousness?

5. How can we encourage a spirit of community and fellowship in our church or small group, avoiding the pitfalls of self-righteousness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 18:9-14
The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector illustrates the dangers of self-righteousness, similar to the attitude condemned in Isaiah 65:5.

Matthew 23:27-28
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their outward appearance of righteousness while being inwardly corrupt, echoing the hypocrisy addressed in Isaiah.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse warns that pride precedes destruction, aligning with the consequences of self-righteousness seen in Isaiah 65:5.

Romans 3:23
This verse reminds us that all have sinned, countering the self-righteous attitude of being "holier than thou."