15 The ancient and honourable, he is the head; and the prophet that teacheth lies, he is the tail.

Other Translations of Isaiah 9:15

New International Version

15 the elders and dignitaries are the head, the prophets who teach lies are the tail.

English Standard Version

15 the elder and honored man is the head, and the prophet who teaches lies is the tail;

The Message

15 The big-head elders were the head, the lying prophets were the tail.

New King James Version

15 The elder and honorable, he is the head; The prophet who teaches lies, he is the tail.

New Living Translation

15 The leaders of Israel are the head, and the lying prophets are the tail.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Isaiah 9:15

Commentary on Isaiah 9:8-21

(Read Isaiah 9:8-21)

Those are ripening apace for ruin, whose hearts are unhumbled under humbling providences. For that which God designs, in smiting us, is, to turn us to himself; and if this point be not gained by lesser judgments, greater may be expected. The leaders of the people misled them. We have reason to be afraid of those that speak well of us, when we do ill. Wickedness was universal, all were infected with it. They shall be in trouble, and see no way out; and when men's ways displease the Lord, he makes even their friends to be at war with them. God would take away those they thought to have help from. Their rulers were the head. Their false prophets were the tail and the rush, the most despicable. In these civil contests, men preyed on near relations who were as their own flesh. The people turn not to Him who smites them, therefore he continues to smite: for when God judges, he will overcome; and the proudest, stoutest sinner shall either bend or break.