Book of Isaiah - Chapter 29 - Verse 1

Ariel was a symbolic name for Jerusalem, specifically referring to the city where King David dwelt. The verse expresses a message of judgment and warning to the city, indicating that trouble was coming upon it. The repetition of "Woe to Ariel" emphasizes the severity of the situation and the urgency of the warning. The command to add year to year and continue with sacrifices may suggest a sense of complacency or ritualistic behavior without true repentance or understanding of the gravity of the situation. The verse serves as a reminder that external religious practices are not enough if they are not accompanied by genuine faith and righteousness. By emphasizing the city where David dwelt, the verse also alludes to the history and significance of Jerusalem as a central location in the biblical narrative. Overall, the verse conveys a message of impending judgment and the need for genuine spiritual renewal.

The theological interpretation of the verse "Woe to Ariel, to Ariel, the city where David dwelt! add ye year to year; let them kill sacrifices." centers around the judgment and rebuke being delivered to the city of Ariel, also known as Jerusalem. The repetition of "Ariel" emphasizes the seriousness of the message being conveyed. The term "Ariel" means "lion of God," which could symbolize the city's strength and power, but in this context, it is used to highlight the impending doom and destruction that the city will face. The call to "add ye year to year" could signify a continual cycle of judgment and suffering that the city will endure if they do not repent. The reference to sacrifices being killed may allude to the insincere and empty religious practices that the city is engaging in, emphasizing the need for true repentance and obedience to God. Overall, this verse serves as a warning to the city of Ariel to turn away from their sinful ways and return to God before it is too late.