Isaiah 29:12 addresses the issue of illiteracy and the deliberate obscuring of divine revelation. The prophet describes a situation where the common person, lacking the ability to read, must rely on someone else to interpret a sealed book or document. This reliance creates an opportunity for those entrusted with the knowledge to manipulate or withhold its true meaning.
This passage highlights the importance of accessible knowledge and the dangers of spiritual or intellectual gatekeeping. Historically, literacy was often limited to the elite, allowing them to control information and potentially exploit those who could not read. The verse serves as a cautionary tale against such power dynamics and emphasizes the need for clear and open communication, particularly concerning spiritual matters. Its implications resonate even today, underscoring the importance of media literacy and critical thinking in discerning truth from misinformation.
