Isaiah 19:22

And the LORD will strike Egypt with a plague; He will strike them but heal them. They will turn to the LORD, and He will hear their prayers and heal them.

Study Bible

The LORD
This phrase refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It emphasizes His sovereignty and authority over all nations, including Egypt. In the context of Isaiah, the LORD is portrayed as the ultimate ruler who orchestrates events according to His divine plan. The use of "The LORD" here underscores His active involvement in the affairs of nations, highlighting His omnipotence and omniscience.

will strike Egypt
The Hebrew word for "strike" is "נָגַף" (nagaph), which can mean to smite or afflict. Historically, Egypt was a powerful nation, often seen as a symbol of worldly strength and idolatry. The striking of Egypt signifies God's judgment against their false gods and reliance on human power. This action is not merely punitive but serves a greater purpose in God's redemptive plan.

with a plague
The term "plague" can evoke memories of the plagues in Exodus, where God demonstrated His power over the gods of Egypt. In this context, it symbolizes divine intervention meant to bring about repentance and recognition of the true God. The use of a plague indicates a severe but purposeful affliction designed to turn the hearts of the people back to God.

then He will heal them
The Hebrew root for "heal" is "רָפָא" (rapha), which means to restore or make whole. This phrase reveals God's ultimate intention of restoration and reconciliation. Despite the judgment, God's desire is to heal and bring about spiritual renewal. It reflects His mercy and grace, offering hope and redemption even to those who have turned away from Him.

They will turn to the LORD
This turning signifies repentance and a return to faithfulness. The Hebrew concept of "turning" or "שׁוּב" (shuv) involves a complete change of direction, both spiritually and morally. It indicates a heartfelt return to God, acknowledging His lordship and seeking His forgiveness. This transformation is a central theme in the prophetic literature, emphasizing the possibility of renewal and restoration.

and He will respond to their pleas
The phrase highlights God's responsiveness to sincere prayer and repentance. It underscores the relational aspect of God's character, where He listens and answers those who earnestly seek Him. This assurance of divine response is a powerful encouragement for believers, affirming that God is attentive and compassionate.

and heal them
Reiterating the promise of healing, this phrase emphasizes the completeness of God's restorative work. It assures that God's healing is not partial but holistic, addressing both physical and spiritual needs. This final promise of healing encapsulates the hope of redemption and the transformative power of God's grace, offering a vision of peace and wholeness for those who turn to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is sovereign over all nations, including Egypt.

2. Egypt
A significant nation in biblical history, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God's people.

3. Plague
A divine judgment or calamity sent by God as a means of correction or punishment.

4. Healing
The restoration and reconciliation that follows repentance and turning back to God.

5. Turning to the LORD
The act of repentance and seeking God, resulting in divine response and healing.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations, and His purposes will be accomplished, even through judgment.

Judgment as a Means to Repentance
God's judgments are not merely punitive but are intended to lead people to repentance and restoration.

The Promise of Healing
God's desire is to heal and restore those who turn to Him, demonstrating His mercy and grace.

The Importance of Repentance
True repentance involves turning away from sin and turning towards God, resulting in His response and healing.

God's Faithfulness to Respond
When people genuinely seek God, He is faithful to respond to their pleas and bring healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God striking and healing reflect His character and purposes?

2. In what ways can the account of the plagues in Exodus help us understand God's actions in Isaiah 19:22?

3. How does the promise of healing in Isaiah 19:22 encourage us in our personal walk with God?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to "turn to the LORD" in times of personal or national crisis?

5. How can we apply the principles of repentance and healing found in Isaiah 19:22 to our relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7-12
The plagues of Egypt during the time of Moses, demonstrating God's power and judgment.

2 Chronicles 7:14
The promise of healing and restoration when God's people humble themselves, pray, and seek His face.

Hosea 6:1-2
A call to return to the LORD for healing and restoration after judgment.

Acts 3:19
The call to repentance and the promise of times of refreshing from the Lord.