◄ Isaiah 62 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Zion’s Salvation and New Name 1For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not keep still, until her righteousness shines like a bright light, her salvation like a blazing torch. 2Nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. 3You will be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem in the palm of your God. 4No longer will you be called Forsaken,a nor your land named Desolate;b but you will be called Hephzibah,c and your land Beulah;d for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be His bride. 5For as a young man marries a young woman, so your sons will marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you. 6On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD shall take no rest for yourselves, 7nor give Him any rest until He establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth. 8The LORD has sworn by His right hand and by His mighty arm: “Never again will I give your grain to your enemies for food, nor will foreigners drink the new wine for which you have toiled. 9For those who harvest grain will eat it and praise the LORD, and those who gather grapes will drink the wine in My holy courts.” 10Go out, go out through the gates; prepare the way for the people! Build it up, build up the highway; clear away the stones; raise a banner for the nations! 11Behold, the LORD has proclaimed to the ends of the earth, “Say to Daughter Zion: See, your Savior comes! Look, His reward is with Him, and His recompense goes before Him.” 12And they will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of The LORD; and you will be called Sought Out, A City Not Forsaken. Footnotes: 4 a Hebrew Azubah 4 b Hebrew Shemamah 4 c Hephzibah means My delight is in her. 4 d Beulah means married. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 62 Summary Zion's Salvation and New Name Verses 1–5 – Zion's New Name and Joy God refuses to stay silent until Jerusalem’s goodness burns like a torch. The nations will see and honor her. “You will be called by a new name” (v. 2), no longer “Forsaken” but “Hephzibah” (My Delight Is in Her) and “Beulah” (Married). Like a groom delighting in his bride, the LORD rejoices over His people. Verses 6–9 – Watchmen Guarding the City Watchmen are posted on Jerusalem’s walls to pray day and night, refusing to let God rest until He makes the city “the praise of the earth” (v. 7). God swears that invaders will never again steal Israel’s grain or wine; the harvest will be enjoyed in His own courts. Verses 10–12 – Salvation Shines Out A call rings out: clear the highway, raise a banner, announce to the whole world, “See, your Savior comes! Look, His reward is with Him” (v. 11). Zion will be titled “Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD…Sought Out, A City Not Forsaken” (v. 12). Isaiah 62, a beautiful composition from the book of Isaiah, speaks powerfully of God's enduring love and unwavering commitment to the redemption of Zion. This chapter portrays God's tireless advocacy and intervention, as He prophesies a glorious future for His people and the city of Zion. Historical Setting Isaiah 62 belongs to the closing section of the book (chs. 56–66), spoken to a people recently returned from exile yet still battered. Jerusalem’s walls lay damaged; foreign powers hovered. Into that uncertainty God speaks an unbreakable promise: the city will be rebuilt, renamed, and globally honored. The wording echoes earlier prophecies of restoration in Isaiah 40–55 and picks up the covenant language first given to Abraham (Genesis 12:2–3). Key Words and Images • New name: In Scripture a new name signals a fresh role—Abram to Abraham (Genesis 17), Simon to Peter (John 1:42). Here it seals Zion’s change from shame to delight. • Marriage: God as husband (Hosea 2:16–20) portrays faithful love; Israel’s unfaithfulness had been adultery, but now the relationship is healed. • Watchmen: Not military guards only, but prayer partners who “remind the LORD” (v. 6). The idea parallels Ezekiel 33:7, the prophet as watchman warning of danger. • Highway: First heard in Isaiah 40:3—“Prepare the way for the LORD.” Roads smoothed for returning exiles foreshadow the path for every nation to come to Zion (Isaiah 11:16; 35:8). Literary Flow in Isaiah 60–62 Chapter 60 celebrates Zion’s light rising. Chapter 61 presents the Spirit-anointed Herald (“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is on Me”). Chapter 62 answers: How will that light and message reshape Zion? By giving her a new identity, constant prayer covering, and world-wide recognition. Connections to Other Scriptures • Isaiah 62:1 ↔ Matthew 5:14-16—light of righteousness shining for nations. • Isaiah 62:4 ↔ Revelation 21:2—Jerusalem prepared “as a bride adorned for her husband.” • Isaiah 62:11 ↔ Revelation 22:12—“Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me.” • Isaiah 62:8-9 ↔ Joel 2:24-27—grain and wine enjoyed at home instead of stolen by enemies. • Isaiah 62:6-7 ↔ Luke 18:1-7—the call to persistent prayer until justice is done. The New Names: Hephzibah and Beulah Hephzibah means “My delight is in her.” Beulah means “Married.” In 2 Kings 21:1 Hephzibah is the name of King Hezekiah’s wife; Isaiah may be reclaiming a royal memory to promise a royal future. Calling the land “Married” reverses the exile verdict that had left the land “Desolate.” Watchmen and Persistent Prayer God Himself appoints the watchmen (v. 6). Their task echoes the ancient Near-Eastern custom of temple singers chanting day and night. The picture encourages believers to intercede non-stop, partnering with God until His promises become reality (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:17). Archaeological Insights Excavations in Jerusalem have uncovered Hezekiah’s Broad Wall—eight feet thick, hurriedly built to defend against Assyria (late 8th century BC). Isaiah’s mention of “walls” (v. 6) would evoke real stones the people knew. Storage jars stamped lmlk (“belonging to the king”) show how grain was once commandeered by occupying forces, giving vivid background to verses 8-9 about grain no longer seized by enemies. Highway Building in the Ancient World Persian kings cut royal roads to speed messengers; local laborers filled ruts and raised embankments. Isaiah’s call, “Build up, build up the highway” (v. 10), uses the same civic language: clear stones, erect a banner so travelers spot the route. Spiritually it pictures removing obstacles that keep people from coming to God (Hebrews 12:13). Messiah in Isaiah 62 Verse 11’s “Savior” links with the Spirit-anointed Servant of ch. 61 and the righteous King of ch. 9. Jesus applies Isaiah 61:1-2 to Himself in Luke 4:18-21, and Revelation 22:12 puts His voice behind the promise, cementing Isaiah 62 as a messianic hope. Practical Implications for Today Rereading the chapter invites modern believers to call cities by new names of hope, stand as prayer-watchmen, and remove obstacles so neighbors meet their Savior. The account assures that God keeps His vows: what He delights in, He will finish, and no enemy will finally rob what He gives. Connections to Additional Scriptures Revelation 21:2-4 The New Jerusalem as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband, echoing the themes of restoration and delight. 2 Corinthians 5:17 The new creation in Christ, paralleling the new name and identity given by God. Psalm 37:5-6 Trusting in the Lord and His promise to make your righteousness shine like the dawn. Teaching Points God's Relentless Pursuit Isaiah 62:1 begins with a powerful declaration: For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet, until her righteousness shines like a bright light, her salvation like a blazing torch. God is committed to the restoration and righteousness of His people. A New Name and Identity In verse 2, God promises, You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. This signifies a transformation and a new identity given by God Himself. A Crown of Beauty Verse 3 describes Jerusalem as a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem in the palm of your God. This imagery highlights the honor and value God places on His people. No Longer Forsaken In verses 4-5, God reassures His people that they will no longer be called Forsaken or Desolate, but My Delight is in Her and Married. This signifies a restored relationship and God's delight in His people. Watchmen on the Walls Verses 6-7 speak of watchmen who will not be silent day or night, reminding us of the importance of persistent prayer and vigilance in seeking God's promises. The Lord's Oath In verses 8-9, God swears by His right hand and mighty arm that His people will enjoy the fruits of their labor, emphasizing His faithfulness and provision. Prepare the Way Verse 10 calls for the preparation of the way for the people, a call to action for removing obstacles and making a path for God's work. The Lord's Proclamation The chapter concludes with a proclamation of salvation and the identity of God's people as The Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD (verse 12). Practical Applications Embrace Your New Identity Recognize and live out the new identity God has given you as His beloved and redeemed. Persistent Prayer Be like the watchmen, committed to persistent prayer and intercession for God's promises to be fulfilled. Prepare the Way Actively participate in removing obstacles in your life and community that hinder God's work. Trust in God's Faithfulness Rest in the assurance that God is faithful to His promises and will bring about His plans for your life. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Isaiah 62, the LORD is depicted as the one who will not remain silent until Zion's righteousness shines forth. The Hebrew name used here is Yahweh, emphasizing His covenant relationship with Israel. The LORD is portrayed as a redeemer and restorer of His people. 2. Zion/Jerusalem While not a person, Zion is personified in this chapter as a bride and a city that will be given a new name. Zion represents the people of God and their future glory and righteousness. The chapter speaks of Zion's transformation and the joy that will come to her. 3. The Nations/Gentiles These are the peoples who will witness the righteousness and glory of Zion. The chapter implies that the nations will see the work of God in His people and be drawn to it. 4. The Watchmen These are individuals appointed by God to pray and keep watch over Jerusalem. They are tasked with reminding the LORD of His promises and ensuring that Jerusalem becomes a praise in the earth. 5. The People of God Referred to as "My people" and "the redeemed of the LORD," these are the inhabitants of Zion who will experience God's salvation and be called by a new name. They are the recipients of God's promises and blessings. 6. The Bridegroom Symbolically, the LORD is likened to a bridegroom rejoicing over His bride, which is Zion. This imagery highlights the intimate and joyful relationship between God and His people. 7. The Kings These are the rulers who will see the glory of Zion. The chapter suggests that even the highest authorities will recognize the transformation and honor bestowed upon God's people. Places 1. Zion Zion is often used to refer to Jerusalem, the city of God, and represents the spiritual center of God's people. In Isaiah 62, Zion is depicted as a place of salvation and righteousness, where God's glory will be revealed. The Hebrew root for Zion is "צִיּוֹן" (Tziyon), which signifies a place of significance and divine presence. 2. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel and holds a central place in biblical prophecy and history. In Isaiah 62, Jerusalem is portrayed as a city that will be called by a new name, reflecting its restored status and God's delight in it. The Hebrew name "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) is often associated with peace and completeness. Events 1. Promise of Salvation and Righteousness (Isaiah 62:1) The chapter begins with a declaration of God's commitment to not remain silent until Jerusalem's righteousness and salvation shine brightly. The Hebrew word for "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, ^tsedeq^) emphasizes justice and moral integrity. 2. Nations Witnessing Glory (Isaiah 62:2) The nations will see Jerusalem's righteousness, and kings will witness her glory. A new name, given by the LORD, signifies a transformation and renewal. 3. Jerusalem as a Crown of Beauty (Isaiah 62:3) Jerusalem is described as a "crown of beauty" and a "royal diadem" in the hand of God, symbolizing honor and divine favor. 4. No Longer Forsaken (Isaiah 62:4) The city will no longer be called "Forsaken" or "Desolate." Instead, it will be called "Hephzibah" (My Delight Is in Her) and "Beulah" (Married), indicating God's delight and covenant relationship. 5. God's Rejoicing Over Jerusalem (Isaiah 62:5) As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will God rejoice over Jerusalem, highlighting the intimate and joyful relationship between God and His people. 6. Watchmen on the Walls (Isaiah 62:6-7) God appoints watchmen on Jerusalem's walls who will not be silent day or night, continually reminding the LORD to fulfill His promises. 7. The LORD's Oath (Isaiah 62:8-9) The LORD swears by His right hand and mighty arm that the enemies will no longer consume Jerusalem's grain and wine. Instead, the people will enjoy the fruits of their labor in the presence of God. 8. Preparation for Salvation (Isaiah 62:10) A call to prepare the way for the people, to build up the highway, and to remove obstacles, symbolizing the preparation for God's coming salvation. 9. Proclamation to the Ends of the Earth (Isaiah 62:11) The LORD proclaims to the ends of the earth that salvation is coming, and His reward and recompense are with Him. 10. The Holy People and Redeemed of the LORD (Isaiah 62:12) The people will be called "The Holy People" and "The Redeemed of the LORD," emphasizing their sanctified and redeemed status. Jerusalem will be called "Sought Out" and "A City Not Forsaken," reflecting God's enduring presence and favor. Lessons from Isaiah 62 1. The Promise of Restoration Isaiah 62 opens with a powerful promise of restoration for Zion. This chapter reminds us that God is committed to His people and will not rest until their righteousness shines like the dawn. "For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet, until her righteousness shines like a bright light, her salvation like a blazing torch" (Isaiah 62:1). This is a beautiful reminder that God is actively working in our lives, even when we cannot see it. Trust in His timing and His unwavering commitment to your spiritual growth. 2. A New Name and Identity In verse 2, God promises to give His people a new name, signifying a new identity and purpose. "The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow" (Isaiah 62:2). This is a powerful reminder that in Christ, we are made new. Embrace your identity as a child of God, and let it guide your actions and decisions. 3. The Crown of Beauty God describes His people as a crown of beauty in His hand. "You will be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem in the palm of your God" (Isaiah 62:3). This imagery highlights our value and worth in God's eyes. Remember that you are cherished and esteemed by the Creator of the universe, and let this truth shape your self-worth and confidence. 4. From Forsaken to Delighted Verse 4 speaks of a transformation from being forsaken to being delighted in. "No longer will you be called Forsaken, nor your land named Desolate; but you will be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD will take delight in you, and your land will be married" (Isaiah 62:4). This is a testament to God's redemptive power. No matter your past, God delights in you and has a plan for your future. Embrace His love and let it heal and transform you. 5. The Joy of the Bridegroom Isaiah 62:5 compares God's joy over His people to the joy of a bridegroom over his bride. "As a young man marries a young woman, so your sons will marry you; and as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so your God will rejoice over you" (Isaiah 62:5). This imagery speaks to the deep, personal relationship God desires with us. Rejoice in the knowledge that God delights in you and seeks a close, intimate relationship with you. 6. Watchmen on the Walls God appoints watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem, who will never be silent. "I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest" (Isaiah 62:6). This is a call to persistent prayer and vigilance. Be a spiritual watchman in your own life and community, continually seeking God's guidance and protection. 7. The Certainty of God's Promises In verse 8, God swears by His right hand and mighty arm, emphasizing the certainty of His promises. "The LORD has sworn by His right hand and by His mighty arm: 'Never again will I give your grain as food for your enemies, nor will foreigners drink the new wine for which you have toiled'" (Isaiah 62:8). Trust in the reliability of God's promises. He is faithful and true, and His word will never fail. 8. The Call to Prepare the Way Isaiah 62:10 urges us to prepare the way for the people. "Pass through, pass through the gates! Prepare the way for the people. Build up, build up the highway! Remove the stones. Raise a banner for the nations" (Isaiah 62:10). This is a call to action. As believers, we are called to remove obstacles and pave the way for others to come to Christ. Be proactive in sharing the Gospel and making it accessible to those around you. 9. The Proclamation of Salvation Verse 11 declares the coming of salvation. "Behold, the LORD has proclaimed to the ends of the earth: 'Say to Daughter Zion, "See, your Savior comes! See, His reward is with Him, and His recompense accompanies Him"'" (Isaiah 62:11). This is a reminder of the hope we have in Christ. Proclaim His salvation boldly and joyfully, knowing that He is coming again with reward and recompense. 10. A Holy People Redeemed by the LORD The chapter concludes with a declaration of God's people as holy and redeemed. "They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the LORD; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Forsaken" (Isaiah 62:12). Embrace your identity as part of God's holy and redeemed people. Live in a way that reflects His holiness and redemption, and let your life be a testament to His grace and love. Topics 1. Zion's Vindication and Salvation (Isaiah 62:1-2) The chapter begins with a declaration of God's unwavering commitment to Zion's righteousness and salvation. The Hebrew word for "vindication" (צְדָקָה, tzedakah) emphasizes a legal and moral rightness that will shine brightly. The nations will witness Zion's transformation, highlighting God's faithfulness. 2. Zion's New Name (Isaiah 62:2-4) God promises to bestow a new name upon Zion, symbolizing a change in status and identity. The Hebrew concept of a name (שֵׁם, shem) often reflects character and destiny. Zion will no longer be called "Forsaken" (עֲזוּבָה, Azubah) or "Desolate" (שְׁמָמָה, Shemamah), but will be known as "Hephzibah" (חֶפְצִי־בָהּ, meaning "My Delight is in Her") and "Beulah" (בְּעוּלָה, meaning "Married"). 3. The Lord's Delight in Zion (Isaiah 62:4-5) The imagery of marriage is used to describe God's relationship with Zion. Just as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will God rejoice over Zion. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of covenantal love and commitment. 4. Watchmen on the Walls (Isaiah 62:6-7) God appoints watchmen on Jerusalem's walls, symbolizing constant vigilance and prayer. The Hebrew term for "watchmen" (שֹׁמְרִים, shomrim) indicates those who are attentive and alert, ensuring that God's promises are continually brought before Him until they are fulfilled. 5. The Lord's Oath and Promise (Isaiah 62:8-9) God swears by His right hand and mighty arm, emphasizing the certainty and power of His promise. The Hebrew word for "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevuah) underscores the seriousness and unbreakable nature of God's commitment to His people. 6. Preparation for Salvation (Isaiah 62:10-12) The chapter concludes with a call to prepare the way for the people, removing obstacles and raising a banner for the nations. The Hebrew word for "prepare" (פַּנּוּ, pannu) suggests making a clear and accessible path. This anticipates the coming salvation and the proclamation that Zion will be called "Sought After" (דְּרוּשָׁה, Derushah) and "City Not Forsaken" (עִיר לֹא נֶעֱזָבָה, Ir Lo Ne'ezavah). Themes 1. Zion's Vindication and Salvation Isaiah 62:1 speaks of Zion's righteousness shining forth "like a blazing torch." The Hebrew word for righteousness, "צֶדֶק" (tzedek), implies a divine justice and moral integrity that will be evident to all nations. 2. A New Name for Zion In Isaiah 62:2, it is promised that Zion will be called by a "new name" given by the Lord. This signifies a transformation and renewal, reflecting God's intimate relationship with His people. 3. Zion as a Crown of Beauty Verse 3 describes Zion as a "crown of beauty" and a "royal diadem" in the hand of God. The imagery here emphasizes honor and the special status of God's people, highlighting their value and dignity. 4. Restoration of Relationship Isaiah 62:4 declares that Zion will no longer be termed "Forsaken" or "Desolate," but will be called "Hephzibah" (My Delight is in Her) and "Beulah" (Married). This reflects the restoration of the covenant relationship between God and His people. 5. God's Delight in His People The theme of divine delight is reiterated in verse 5, where it is stated that God rejoices over His people as a bridegroom rejoices over a bride. This portrays a deep, personal joy and commitment from God towards His people. 6. Watchmen on the Walls In Isaiah 62:6-7, God appoints watchmen who will not be silent until Jerusalem is established and praised in the earth. This theme underscores the importance of persistent prayer and vigilance in seeking God's promises. 7. The Lord's Oath of Protection Verses 8-9 highlight God's oath by His right hand, ensuring that His people will no longer be plundered by enemies. The Hebrew word "שָׁבַע" (shava) for oath signifies a solemn promise, emphasizing God's commitment to protect and provide. 8. Preparation for Salvation Isaiah 62:10 calls for the preparation of the way for the people, removing obstacles and raising a banner for the nations. This theme points to the universal scope of God's salvation and the call to readiness. 9. Proclamation of Redemption Verse 11 announces to the ends of the earth that salvation comes, and His reward is with Him. This theme emphasizes the certainty and global proclamation of God's redemptive work. 10. The Holy People and Redeemed of the Lord Finally, Isaiah 62:12 describes the people as "The Holy People, The Redeemed of the LORD." The Hebrew word "גָּאַל" (ga'al) for redeemed signifies a kinsman-redeemer, highlighting God's personal and familial redemption of His people. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Promises Thank God for His unwavering commitment and promises of restoration and glory. Prayer for Identity Ask God to help you fully embrace and live out your new identity in Christ. Intercession for Others Pray for those who feel forsaken or desolate, that they may experience God's delight and restoration. Guidance in Preparation Seek God's guidance in preparing the way for His work in your life and community. As we reflect on Isaiah 62, may we be encouraged by God's relentless love and commitment to His people, and may we actively participate in His plans for restoration and glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Isaiah 62:1 align with historical and archaeological findings that question the timeframe of Zion’s restoration? 2. Does Isaiah 62:2, describing all nations seeing Jerusalem’s righteousness, conflict with evidence of the city’s repeated conquests and destructions? 3. How does the promise of a “new name” for Jerusalem in Isaiah 62:2 reconcile with other biblical passages that describe unchanging divine names? 4. Does Isaiah 62:4’s depiction of the land as “no longer desolate” contradict historical accounts of desolation across the region? 5. How can Isaiah 62:7’s assurance that God will establish Jerusalem “as the praise of the earth” be reconciled with the city’s tumultuous history and present-day conflicts? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does God’s unwavering commitment to Zion in Isaiah 62 teach you about His character? 2. In what ways can the marriage metaphor used in this chapter be applied to our relationship with God today? 3. What does it mean for a city or a person to be a "crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand" (v.3)? 4. How do the promises of God for Zion provide hope for our present day situations? 5. How can you embody the role of a "watchman" in your personal life or community today? 6. What obstacles might need to be removed to prepare a way for the Lord in your life? 7. In what ways can you persist in prayer like the watchmen on the walls of Zion? 8. How does the new name given to Zion resonate with the concept of personal transformation in Christ? 9. How can the anticipation of Zion's salvation influence our perspective on God's promises for our lives? 10. What might it look like for your city or community to become a "praise on the earth"? 11. How does the promise that Zion will be "sought out, not forsaken" (v.12) bring comfort in times of loneliness or despair? 12. What does this chapter teach us about the power of prayer and intercession? 13. How can we live in the light of the future glory promised by God, even amidst present challenges? 14. What does the metaphor of Zion's people enjoying the fruits of their land say about God's desire for His people? 15. How can the hope of future glory, as prophesied in this chapter, influence our daily actions? 16. How does Isaiah's unwavering belief in God's promises inspire you in your faith journey? 17. How might the transformations prophesied for Zion apply to the concept of personal redemption and sanctification? 18. What lessons can we learn from God's steadfast love for Zion despite its past struggles and failures? 19. How can the promise of Zion's vindication be a source of encouragement during times of personal persecution or hardship? 20. How can this chapter's emphasis on future glory shape our understanding of God's plans for humanity's redemption? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions