What happens when the smartest people can't figure things out? This verse describes a profound loss of insight and understanding.
Isaiah 29:14 starkly contrasts God's 'wonderful things' with the failure of human intellect: 'the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the discernment of their discerning men shall be hidden.'
The Perishing of Wisdom
'Perish' here doesn't just mean 'become less important.' It signifies an utter failure, a complete inability to function or be useful. The 'wisdom' that perishes is likely the clever human reasoning, political maneuvering, or sophisticated strategies the people relied on, especially in their relationship with God. When God intervenes with His 'marvellous work,' these human calculations prove worthless.
Hidden Discernment
'Shall be hidden' is equally significant. It suggests that the ability to understand, to discern right from wrong, or to grasp the situation clearly, is removed or obscured. This isn't accidental; it's a consequence of turning away from God's wisdom. When people trust their own intellect over divine guidance, their ability to truly 'discern' becomes useless, effectively hidden from them.
A Judgment on Reliance
This outcome serves as a judgment on those who trust in human capability rather than divine power. The very things they prided themselves on – their intelligence, their foresight, their cleverness – become the instruments of their confusion and downfall when God decides to act.
