Isaiah 60:2

For behold, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the peoples; but the LORD will rise upon you, and His glory will appear over you.

Study Bible

For behold
The Hebrew word used here is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is often translated as "behold" or "look." It serves as a call to attention, urging the reader or listener to focus on the significant message that follows. In the context of Isaiah, it is a divine announcement, emphasizing the certainty and importance of the prophecy. This word sets the stage for a dramatic contrast between the current state of the world and the promised divine intervention.

darkness covers the earth
The term "darkness" in Hebrew is "חֹשֶׁךְ" (choshek), which can refer to both physical darkness and a metaphorical state of ignorance, sin, or despair. In the ancient Near Eastern context, darkness often symbolized chaos and evil, contrasting with the order and goodness represented by light. The phrase suggests a pervasive spiritual and moral decline affecting the entire earth, a condition that is observable throughout history and resonates with the human experience of living in a fallen world.

and thick darkness is over the peoples
The phrase "thick darkness" translates from the Hebrew "עֲרָפֶל" (araphel), indicating an even deeper, more impenetrable darkness. This intensification underscores the severity of the spiritual blindness and moral corruption affecting humanity. Historically, this could be seen in the idolatry and injustice prevalent among the nations surrounding Israel. Scripturally, it reflects the condition of humanity without the revelation and guidance of God, emphasizing the need for divine intervention.

but the LORD will rise upon you
The Hebrew name for "LORD" here is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. The phrase "will rise upon you" uses the imagery of the sun rising, bringing light and life. This is a promise of God's active presence and favor, specifically directed towards His people. It signifies hope and renewal, contrasting sharply with the preceding darkness, and is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to transform situations.

and His glory will appear over you
"Glory" in Hebrew is "כָּבוֹד" (kabod), which conveys the idea of weightiness, honor, and splendor. It represents the manifest presence of God, often associated with light and brilliance. The promise that His glory "will appear over you" suggests a visible, transformative impact on God's people, making them a beacon of hope and truth in a dark world. This reflects the biblical theme of God's people being a light to the nations, as seen in the calling of Israel and fulfilled in the mission of the Church.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book that bears his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness to His promises. In this verse, He is the one who will rise and bring glory.

3. The Earth and Peoples
Refers to the world and its inhabitants, who are described as being in a state of darkness, symbolizing ignorance, sin, and separation from God.

4. Darkness and Thick Darkness
Symbolic of spiritual blindness and moral corruption that pervades the earth and its people.

5. Glory of the LORD
Represents God's manifest presence and divine light, which dispels darkness and brings hope and salvation.

Teaching Points

Understanding Spiritual Darkness
Recognize the pervasive nature of spiritual darkness in the world and its impact on humanity.

The Promise of Divine Intervention
Trust in God's promise to rise upon His people, bringing His glory and light into their lives.

Living as Light Bearers
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect God's light in a dark world, living as testimonies of His transformative power.

Hope in God's Glory
Find hope and encouragement in the assurance that God's glory will ultimately prevail over darkness.

Engaging with the World
Engage with the world compassionately, understanding that many are still in darkness and need the light of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of darkness and light in Isaiah 60:2 help us understand the spiritual condition of the world today?

2. In what ways can we, as believers, reflect the glory of the LORD in our daily lives?

3. How does the promise of God's glory rising upon us provide hope in times of personal or global crisis?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to live as children of light, as described in Ephesians 5:8?

5. How can the connection between Isaiah 60:2 and Revelation 21:23 shape our understanding of God's ultimate plan for His creation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:2-3
The creation account where God speaks light into the darkness, paralleling the theme of God bringing light into spiritual darkness.

John 1:5
The light of Christ shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it, echoing the promise of God's glory dispelling darkness.

Ephesians 5:8
Believers are called to live as children of light, reflecting the transformation from darkness to light through Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:6
God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of God's glory.

Revelation 21:23
The New Jerusalem has no need for the sun or moon, for the glory of God gives it light, fulfilling the ultimate promise of God's eternal presence.