Thus says the LORD
This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which underscores His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction sets the tone for a message that is not merely human wisdom but divine instruction, demanding attention and obedience from the faithful.

Preserve justice
The Hebrew word for "justice" is "mishpat," which refers to God's established order and fairness. To "preserve" justice implies maintaining and upholding God's standards in society. Historically, this call was crucial for Israel, a nation chosen to reflect God's character. In a broader sense, it challenges believers to actively engage in societal structures, ensuring they align with divine principles.

and do righteousness
"Righteousness" in Hebrew is "tsedaqah," which involves living in a way that is morally right and just. It is not merely about personal piety but encompasses social responsibility. The call to "do" righteousness suggests an active pursuit of ethical living, reflecting God's holiness in everyday actions. This phrase encourages believers to embody God's character, impacting their communities positively.

for My salvation is about to come
The term "salvation" here is "yeshuah" in Hebrew, indicating deliverance and victory. This promise of imminent salvation would have been a source of hope for the Israelites, anticipating God's intervention in their circumstances. For Christians, it foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of God's salvation plan. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the assurance of His deliverance.

and My righteousness to be revealed
The revelation of God's "righteousness" signifies a future unveiling of His justice and moral order. In the prophetic context, it points to a time when God's standards will be fully manifested and recognized by all. For believers, this is a call to anticipate and prepare for the coming of God's kingdom, where His righteousness will reign supreme. It inspires a life of expectancy and readiness, aligning one's life with God's eternal purposes.

Blessed is the man who does this
The word "Blessed" in Hebrew is "אַשְׁרֵי" (ashrei), which conveys a sense of happiness, fortune, and divine favor. This blessing is not merely a superficial happiness but a deep, abiding joy that comes from living in alignment with God's will. The phrase "the man who does this" emphasizes action and obedience. It suggests that blessings are tied to the active pursuit of righteousness and adherence to God's commands. In a historical context, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience leads to divine favor.

and the son of man who holds it fast
The phrase "son of man" is a common Hebrew expression "בֶּן־אָדָם" (ben-adam), meaning a human being. It underscores the universality of the message, indicating that these blessings are available to all who choose to follow God's ways. "Holds it fast" implies a firm, unwavering commitment. This steadfastness is crucial in a world full of distractions and temptations. Historically, this reflects the call for Israel to remain faithful amidst surrounding pagan cultures.

who keeps the Sabbath without profaning it
The "Sabbath" (שַׁבָּת, Shabbat) is a day of rest and worship, instituted by God as a sign of His covenant with Israel. To "keep" the Sabbath means to observe it with reverence and dedication. "Without profaning it" suggests maintaining its sanctity and not treating it as an ordinary day. In the scriptural context, the Sabbath is a reminder of God's creation and His deliverance of Israel from Egypt. It is a day set apart for spiritual renewal and reflection, emphasizing the importance of rest and worship in the believer's life.

and keeps his hand from doing any evil
The phrase "keeps his hand" indicates personal responsibility and self-control. "From doing any evil" highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of faith. It calls believers to actively avoid sin and pursue righteousness. In the broader biblical narrative, this reflects the call to holiness and the transformation that comes from a relationship with God. It is a reminder that true faith is evidenced by a life that seeks to honor God in all actions.

Let no foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD
The term "foreigner" in Hebrew is "נֵכָר" (nekar), which refers to someone who is not of Israelite descent. Historically, foreigners were often seen as outsiders in Israelite society, yet this passage emphasizes inclusion. The phrase "joined himself to the LORD" suggests a voluntary and sincere commitment to the God of Israel, transcending ethnic and cultural boundaries. This reflects the universal scope of God's covenant, foreshadowing the New Testament's message of salvation available to all through Christ (Galatians 3:28).

say, 'The LORD will surely exclude me from His people.'
The Hebrew word for "exclude" is "בָּדַל" (badal), meaning to separate or divide. In ancient Israel, there were strict laws about who could participate in the assembly of the LORD (Deuteronomy 23). However, this verse reassures that those who earnestly seek God and align themselves with His covenant are not to be excluded. This is a profound message of hope and acceptance, emphasizing God's desire for a diverse and inclusive community of believers.

And let no eunuch say, 'I am but a dry tree.'
The term "eunuch" refers to a man who has been castrated, often serving in royal courts. In the ancient Near East, eunuchs were typically denied full participation in religious and social life due to their inability to procreate, symbolized by the phrase "a dry tree." However, Isaiah's prophecy challenges this exclusion, offering a promise of spiritual fruitfulness and belonging. This anticipates the New Testament's teaching that spiritual identity in Christ transcends physical limitations (Acts 8:26-39, where the Ethiopian eunuch is baptized).

“For thus says the LORD”
This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and unchanging nature. In the context of Isaiah, it underscores the reliability and faithfulness of God's promises. Historically, this phrase would have been a powerful reminder to the Israelites of their covenant relationship with God, who speaks with ultimate authority.

“To the eunuchs”
Eunuchs were individuals who, due to castration or other reasons, were unable to have children. In ancient Israel, they were often marginalized and excluded from certain religious and social privileges, as seen in Deuteronomy 23:1. However, this passage in Isaiah marks a significant shift, indicating God's inclusive love and the breaking down of societal barriers. The mention of eunuchs here symbolizes those who are often overlooked or undervalued, yet are precious in God's sight.

“who keep My Sabbaths”
The Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, a day of rest and worship. The Hebrew word "Shabbat" means to cease or rest, reflecting God's rest on the seventh day of creation. For the eunuchs to keep the Sabbath signifies their commitment to God's covenant and their inclusion in the community of faith. It highlights the importance of obedience and devotion to God, transcending physical or social limitations.

“choose what pleases Me”
This phrase emphasizes the importance of aligning one's desires and actions with God's will. The Hebrew word for "choose" (בָּחַר, bachar) implies a deliberate and thoughtful decision. It suggests that true devotion involves making choices that honor God and reflect His character. This is a call to prioritize God's desires over personal or cultural preferences, demonstrating a heart fully committed to Him.

“and hold fast to My covenant”
To "hold fast" indicates a firm and unwavering commitment. The Hebrew root "חָזַק" (chazaq) conveys strength and perseverance. God's covenant represents His promises and relationship with His people. For the eunuchs to hold fast to the covenant signifies their steadfast faith and loyalty to God, despite any societal exclusion they might face. This phrase reassures believers of the enduring nature of God's promises and the importance of faithfulness in their spiritual journey.

I will give them
This phrase signifies a divine promise and initiative. The Hebrew root "נָתַן" (natan) means "to give" or "to bestow." It reflects God's sovereign grace and generosity. In the context of Isaiah, God is addressing those who may feel marginalized or excluded, such as eunuchs and foreigners, promising them inclusion and blessing. This reflects the inclusive nature of God's kingdom, where His gifts are not limited by human boundaries or conditions.

in My house and within My walls
The "house" and "walls" refer to the temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence and the community of His people. The Hebrew word for "house" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), often used to denote the temple. "Walls" (חוֹמָה, chomah) signify protection and belonging. Historically, the temple was a place where only certain people could enter, but here God promises access and inclusion to those previously excluded, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive worship community.

a memorial and a name
The Hebrew word for "memorial" is "יָד" (yad), which can also mean "hand" or "monument." It implies something lasting and significant. "Name" (שֵׁם, shem) in Hebrew culture is deeply tied to identity and legacy. God promises a lasting legacy and identity to those who may feel they have none, emphasizing the eternal significance of their relationship with Him.

better than that of sons and daughters
This phrase highlights the surpassing value of God's promise. In ancient Israel, having sons and daughters was a primary means of ensuring one's legacy and inheritance. The promise here is that God's gift surpasses even the most valued human relationships and legacies. It underscores the eternal and spiritual nature of God's blessings, which transcend earthly measures of success and continuity.

I will give them an everlasting name
The repetition of "I will give" emphasizes God's active role in bestowing this blessing. "Everlasting" (עוֹלָם, olam) denotes perpetuity and timelessness. The promise of an "everlasting name" assures the recipients of eternal recognition and honor in God's sight, contrasting with the temporal nature of human achievements and reputations.

that will not be cut off
This phrase assures permanence and security. The Hebrew root "כָּרַת" (karat) means "to cut off" or "to destroy." In a world where status and identity could be easily lost, God's promise of an unbreakable covenant provides profound assurance. It reflects the eternal security found in God's promises, which cannot be nullified by external circumstances or human actions.

And the foreigners
The Hebrew word for "foreigners" is "נֵכָר" (nekar), which refers to those who are not native Israelites. Historically, Israel was a nation set apart, and foreigners were often seen as outsiders. However, this verse highlights God's inclusive plan, showing that His love and covenant are open to all who seek Him, regardless of their ethnic background. This reflects the universal scope of God's salvation plan, which is fully realized in the New Testament through Christ.

who join themselves to the LORD
The phrase "join themselves" comes from the Hebrew "לָוָה" (lavah), meaning to attach or bind oneself. This signifies a deep, committed relationship with God, akin to a covenantal bond. It implies a voluntary and wholehearted decision to align with God's people and His ways, emphasizing the personal choice and dedication required to follow the LORD.

to minister to Him
The Hebrew root "שָׁרַת" (sharat) means to serve or attend to. In the context of the Old Testament, this often referred to the Levitical duties in the temple. Here, it extends the privilege of service to those outside the traditional Israelite lineage, indicating that worship and service to God are not limited by heritage but are open to all who are devoted to Him.

to love the name of the LORD
Loving the name of the LORD involves reverence and adoration for God's character and reputation, as "name" in Hebrew culture encapsulates one's essence and authority. This love is not merely emotional but is demonstrated through obedience and worship, reflecting a deep, personal relationship with God.

and to be His servants
The term "servants" (עֲבָדִים, avadim) denotes those who are in a position of service or worship. In biblical times, a servant was someone who was wholly devoted to their master's will. This phrase underscores the call to live a life of submission and dedication to God's purposes, highlighting the honor and responsibility of serving the Almighty.

all who keep the Sabbath without profaning it
The Sabbath, or "שַׁבָּת" (Shabbat), is a day of rest and worship instituted by God. To "keep" it means to observe it faithfully, while "profaning" (חָלַל, chalal) means to defile or treat it as common. Observing the Sabbath is a sign of covenant faithfulness, symbolizing trust in God's provision and a commitment to His commandments.

and who hold fast to My covenant
"Holding fast" (חָזַק, chazaq) implies a strong, unwavering grip. The "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) refers to the solemn agreement between God and His people. This phrase calls for steadfastness in faith and obedience, emphasizing the importance of remaining true to God's promises and commands. It reflects the enduring nature of God's relationship with those who are faithful to Him, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

I will bring them
This phrase signifies God's active role in gathering His people. The Hebrew root "בּוֹא" (bo) implies a movement or bringing in, suggesting divine initiative and grace. Historically, this reflects God's promise to gather not only the Israelites but also the Gentiles, indicating an inclusive covenant.

to My holy mountain
The "holy mountain" refers to Zion, a symbol of God's presence and the center of worship in Jerusalem. In a broader sense, it represents the spiritual elevation and communion with God. The mountain is "holy" because it is set apart for divine purposes, emphasizing the sanctity and reverence due to God.

and make them joyful
Joy in the Hebrew context, "שָׂמַח" (samach), is more than happiness; it is a deep, spiritual contentment and fulfillment found in God's presence. This joy is a gift from God, reflecting the peace and satisfaction that come from worship and communion with Him.

in My house of prayer
The "house of prayer" is the temple, a place dedicated to communication with God. This phrase underscores the temple's primary purpose as a place where people from all nations can seek God. It highlights the importance of prayer as a means of connecting with the divine.

Their burnt offerings and sacrifices
These offerings were central to Old Testament worship, symbolizing atonement and dedication to God. The acceptance of these offerings signifies God's approval and the restoration of relationship. It also points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which fulfills and transcends these ancient rituals.

will be accepted on My altar
The altar is a sacred place of offering and communion with God. The acceptance of offerings on God's altar indicates His willingness to receive worship from all who come to Him in faith. This acceptance is a sign of God's grace and mercy.

for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations
This prophetic declaration emphasizes the universal scope of God's salvation plan. The phrase "for all the nations" indicates that God's invitation extends beyond Israel to include all peoples. It foreshadows the New Testament revelation of the Gospel being preached to all nations, fulfilling God's promise of inclusivity and unity in worship.

The Lord GOD
This phrase in Hebrew is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing both the sovereignty and the covenantal nature of God. "Adonai" signifies master or ruler, while "Yahweh" is the personal name of God revealed to Moses, highlighting His eternal existence and faithfulness. This dual title underscores God's authority and His intimate relationship with His people, reminding us of His ultimate control over history and His unwavering commitment to His promises.

who gathers the dispersed of Israel
The Hebrew root for "gathers" is "qabats," which conveys the idea of collecting or assembling. This reflects God's restorative work in bringing back those who have been scattered, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic literature. Historically, this refers to the return from exile, but it also points to a future hope of ultimate restoration. The "dispersed of Israel" indicates those who have been exiled or separated from their homeland, symbolizing God's concern for His people regardless of their physical or spiritual distance.

declares
The Hebrew word "ne'um" is often used in prophetic literature to introduce a divine oracle. It signifies a solemn and authoritative pronouncement from God. This declaration is not merely a statement but a divine promise that carries the weight of God's unchanging nature and His sovereign will.

I will gather still others
The phrase "I will gather" uses the same root "qabats," reinforcing the theme of inclusion and restoration. The "still others" suggests an expansion beyond the ethnic boundaries of Israel, hinting at the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation of the Gospel being extended to all nations, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that all families of the earth would be blessed through him.

besides those already gathered
This indicates that God's work of gathering is ongoing and not limited to the initial return from exile. It suggests a future, more comprehensive gathering that includes both Jews and Gentiles. This phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of God's salvation plan, aligning with the prophetic vision of a united people of God from every tribe and nation, as seen in the book of Revelation.

Come
The Hebrew word for "come" is "בּוֹאוּ" (bo'u), which is an imperative form, calling or inviting action. In the context of Isaiah, this is a divine summons, often used to gather people or entities for a specific purpose. Here, it is a call to the beasts, symbolizing the nations or forces that God allows to act as instruments of His judgment. This invitation underscores God's sovereignty, as He orchestrates events according to His divine plan.

all you beasts of the field
The phrase "beasts of the field" in Hebrew is "חַיַּת הַשָּׂדֶה" (chayat hasadeh). In biblical literature, "beasts" often symbolize nations or groups of people, particularly those outside the covenant community of Israel. The "field" represents the open, untamed world, contrasting with the cultivated land of Israel. This imagery suggests the encroachment of foreign powers upon Israel, a theme consistent with the prophetic warnings of judgment due to Israel's unfaithfulness.

eat greedily
The Hebrew verb "אָכְלוּ" (okhlu) means "to eat" and is intensified here to suggest voracious consumption. This phrase implies an unrestrained, almost destructive feeding, symbolizing the impending devastation that foreign nations will bring upon Israel. It serves as a warning of the consequences of Israel's spiritual negligence and the inevitable judgment that follows.

all you beasts of the forest
The "beasts of the forest" (חַיַּת הַיַּעַר, chayat haya'ar) further emphasizes the theme of wild, untamed forces. The "forest" in biblical terms often represents a place of danger and mystery, a habitat for wild animals. This imagery reinforces the idea of foreign invaders as instruments of divine judgment. Historically, Israel faced threats from surrounding nations, and this prophetic language serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

Israel’s watchmen
In ancient Israel, watchmen were stationed on city walls or towers to alert the inhabitants of impending danger. Spiritually, they symbolize leaders or prophets tasked with guiding and protecting the people. The Hebrew word for "watchmen" is "צֹפִים" (tsophim), which implies vigilance and foresight. However, in this context, it is a lamentation over their failure to fulfill their duty. Historically, this reflects a period when Israel's leaders were not attentive to spiritual or moral decay, failing to warn the people of the consequences of their actions.

are blind
The Hebrew word "עִוְרִים" (ivrim) means "blind." This blindness is not physical but spiritual, indicating a lack of insight or understanding. In a conservative Christian perspective, this blindness can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual apathy or ignorance of God's will. It serves as a warning against complacency in spiritual leadership, emphasizing the need for discernment and awareness of God's truth.

they are all ignorant
The term "ignorant" translates from the Hebrew "יָדְעוּ" (yade'u), meaning "they do not know." This ignorance is a willful neglect of knowledge and understanding, particularly of God's laws and commands. It highlights a failure to seek wisdom and guidance from God, leading to poor leadership and moral decline. In a broader sense, it serves as a cautionary note for believers to pursue knowledge and understanding of Scripture diligently.

they are all mute dogs
The imagery of "mute dogs" is striking. Dogs in ancient times were often seen as protectors, alerting their owners to danger. The Hebrew "כְּלָבִים אִלְּמִים" (kelavim illemim) suggests a failure to perform their protective role. Mute dogs cannot bark to warn of danger, symbolizing leaders who fail to speak out against sin or injustice. This metaphor underscores the importance of vocal and active leadership in the spiritual community.

they cannot bark
The inability to bark, "לֹא יוּכְלוּ לִנְבֹּחַ" (lo yuklu linboach), further emphasizes the failure of the leaders to fulfill their duties. Barking is a natural response for a dog to alert and protect. In a spiritual sense, it represents the failure to proclaim God's truth and warn against sin. This serves as a reminder of the responsibility of spiritual leaders to be vigilant and vocal in their guidance.

they are dreamers lying down
The phrase "dreamers lying down" suggests complacency and inaction. The Hebrew "חֹזִים שֹׁכְבִים" (chozim shochvim) implies a state of inactivity and indulgence in fantasies rather than facing reality. This can be seen as a critique of leaders who are more concerned with their comfort and dreams than with the active pursuit of God's mission. It calls for a return to active service and engagement with God's work.

loving to slumber
"Loving to slumber" indicates a preference for rest over duty. The Hebrew "אֹהֲבֵי לָנוּם" (ohavei lanum) conveys a sense of indulgence in laziness. In a spiritual context, it warns against the dangers of spiritual lethargy and the neglect of one's responsibilities. For conservative Christians, it serves as a call to awaken from spiritual sleep and to be diligent in faith and service.

Like ravenous dogs
The imagery of "ravenous dogs" is powerful and evocative, drawing from the Hebrew word "עַזֵּי נֶפֶשׁ" (azzei nefesh), which conveys a sense of fierce, insatiable hunger. In ancient Near Eastern culture, dogs were often seen as unclean scavengers, and this metaphor highlights the leaders' greed and lack of spiritual integrity. The comparison to dogs suggests a base, animalistic nature, driven by instinct rather than divine guidance or moral principles. This phrase serves as a stark warning against unchecked desires and the dangers of leaders who prioritize their appetites over their responsibilities to their flock.

they are never satisfied
The phrase "they are never satisfied" underscores the perpetual and unquenchable nature of the leaders' greed. The Hebrew root "שָׂבַע" (sava) means to be sated or full, and its negation here emphasizes a chronic state of dissatisfaction. This insatiability reflects a spiritual void that material gain cannot fill, pointing to a deeper issue of the heart. In a broader biblical context, this serves as a caution against the futility of seeking fulfillment in worldly possessions or power, reminding believers of the true satisfaction found only in God.

They are shepherds with no discernment
"Shepherds with no discernment" is a poignant critique of the leaders' failure to fulfill their God-given roles. The Hebrew word for shepherd, "רֹעִים" (ro'im), traditionally signifies guidance, protection, and care. However, the lack of "discernment" (Hebrew: "בִּין" - bin) indicates a failure to understand or perceive the needs of their people. This phrase highlights the tragic irony of leaders who, though appointed to guide, are themselves lost and blind. It serves as a call to spiritual leaders to seek wisdom and understanding from God, ensuring they lead with integrity and insight.

they all turn to their own way
The phrase "they all turn to their own way" reflects a collective departure from God's path. The Hebrew "דֶּרֶךְ" (derekh) means way or path, often symbolizing one's life journey or moral direction. This turning away signifies a willful rejection of divine guidance in favor of self-interest. Historically, this mirrors Israel's repeated cycles of rebellion and repentance, serving as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's commandments. It challenges believers to remain steadfast in their walk with God, resisting the temptation to pursue selfish ambitions.

each one seeking his own gain
"Each one seeking his own gain" highlights the individualistic and self-serving nature of the leaders' actions. The Hebrew "בְּצַע" (betza) refers to unjust gain or profit, often associated with greed and corruption. This phrase underscores the moral decay that occurs when personal ambition supersedes communal responsibility and divine calling. In a scriptural context, it contrasts with the biblical ideal of selflessness and service, as exemplified by Christ. It serves as a call to believers to prioritize the welfare of others and the glory of God over personal advancement.

Come
This word is an invitation, a beckoning call that suggests a sense of urgency and immediacy. In the Hebrew context, the word "come" often implies a movement towards something significant or divine. It is a call to action, a call to gather, and a call to participate. In the broader scriptural narrative, God frequently invites His people to come to Him, to seek His presence, and to find refuge in His promises. This invitation is open and inclusive, reflecting God's desire for all to draw near to Him.

let us get wine
Wine in the biblical context is often associated with joy, celebration, and abundance. It is a symbol of God's blessings and the prosperity of His people. However, in this verse, the call to "get wine" can also be seen as a metaphor for indulgence and excess. The Hebrew culture recognized the dual nature of wine as both a gift and a potential source of moral decline when misused. This phrase may serve as a caution against the dangers of seeking fulfillment in earthly pleasures rather than in God.

and let us fill ourselves with strong drink
The phrase "fill ourselves with strong drink" suggests a pursuit of intoxication and self-indulgence. In the Hebrew tradition, strong drink was often associated with a loss of self-control and a departure from wisdom. This phrase highlights the human tendency to seek satisfaction in temporary and worldly pleasures, which ultimately lead to spiritual emptiness. It serves as a warning against the allure of excess and the false sense of security it provides.

and tomorrow will be like today
This expression reflects a mindset of complacency and false assurance. It suggests a belief that life will continue unchanged, without consequence or accountability. In the biblical narrative, such an attitude is often criticized as it ignores the reality of God's sovereignty and the inevitability of His judgment. The Hebrew understanding of time is linear and purposeful, with each day bringing new opportunities for repentance and renewal. This phrase challenges the reader to consider the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living with an eternal perspective.

only far better!
The assertion that tomorrow will be "only far better" reveals a misplaced confidence in human ability to control the future. It is a presumption that disregards the need for divine guidance and intervention. In the conservative Christian perspective, this phrase serves as a reminder of the futility of relying on human wisdom and strength. True hope and assurance come from trusting in God's promises and His plan for redemption. The biblical narrative consistently points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom, where true and lasting joy will be found in His presence.