Introduction to Isaiah 60:12-22
Isaiah 60:12-22 continues the theme of the glorification and restoration of Jerusalem, emphasizing the blessings and prosperity that will come to the city. Here’s a breakdown of how these verses fit into the section and the greater context of the surrounding chapters:
Context of Isaiah 60:12-22
- Verses 12-14: These verses highlight the subjugation of nations that do not serve Israel and the exaltation of Jerusalem. Foreign nations will bring their wealth and honor to the city, and their leaders will acknowledge and honor Jerusalem.
- Verses 15-16: God promises to transform Jerusalem from being abandoned and hated to becoming a place of eternal pride and joy. The nations will provide for Jerusalem, symbolizing its newfound prosperity and favor.
- Verses 17-18: The materials used for rebuilding the city will be of the highest quality, signifying the wealth and glory of the restored Jerusalem. Peace and righteousness will prevail, replacing violence and destruction.
- Verses 19-20: These verses describe a time when the presence of God will provide perpetual light, eliminating the need for the sun and moon. This symbolizes the eternal and divine presence of God with His people.
- Verses 21-22: The people of Jerusalem will be righteous and will inherit the land forever. The population will grow and prosper, and God will accomplish this swiftly in His time.
Isaiah 60 as a whole speaks of the future glory of Zion. It begins with a call to “Arise, shine; for your light has come,” and it envisions a time when the people of Israel will be a beacon to the nations. The chapter highlights themes of restoration, the gathering of exiles, and the ultimate glory and splendor of God’s people. This parallels the concept of Israel being a light to the nations and shining with divine glory which are Torah based concepts according to the following verses:
ספר בראשית פרק יב
ב וְאֶעֶשְֹךָ לְגוֹי גָּדוֹל וַאֲבָרֶכְךָ וַאֲגַדְּלָה שְׁמֶךָ וֶהְיֵה בְּרָכָה: ג וַאֲבָרְכָה מְבָרֲכֶיךָ וּמְקַלֶּלְךָ אָאֹר וְנִבְרְכוּ בְךָ כֹּל מִשְׁפְּחֹת הָאֲדָמָה:
Genesis 12:2–3
12:2 And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And so you shall be a blessing; 12:3 And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.” (NASB)
ספר שמות פרק יט
ה וְעַתָּה אִם-שָׁמוֹעַ תִּשְׁמְעוּ בְּקֹלִי וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם אֶת-בְּרִיתִי וִהְיִיתֶם לִי סְגֻלָּה מִכָּל-הָעַמִּים כִּי-לִי כָּל-הָאָרֶץ: ו וְאַתֶּם תִּהְיוּ-לִי מַמְלֶכֶת כֹּהֲנִים וְגוֹי קָדוֹשׁ אֵלֶּה הַדְּבָרִים אֲשֶׁר תְּדַבֵּר אֶל-בְּנֵי יִשְֹרָאֵל:
Exodus 19:5–6
19:5 ‘Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; 19:6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (NASB)
ספר במדבר פרק כד
יז אֶרְאֶנּוּ וְלֹא עַתָּה אֲשׁוּרֶנּוּ וְלֹא קָרוֹב דָּרַךְ כּוֹכָב מִיַּעֲקֹב וְקָם שֵׁבֶט מִיִּשְֹרָאֵל וּמָחַץ פַּאֲתֵי מוֹאָב וְקַרְקַר כָּל-בְּנֵי-שֵׁת:
Numbers 24:17
24:17 “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near; A star shall come forth from Jacob, A scepter shall rise from Israel, And shall crush through the forehead of Moab, And tear down all the sons of Sheth. (NASB)
ספר דברים פרק ד
ו וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם וַעֲשִֹיתֶם כִּי הִוא חָכְמַתְכֶם וּבִינַתְכֶם לְעֵינֵי הָעַמִּים אֲשֶׁר יִשְׁמְעוּן אֵת כָּל-הַחֻקִּים הָאֵלֶּה וְאָמְרוּ רַק עַם-חָכָם וְנָבוֹן הַגּוֹי הַגָּדוֹל הַזֶּה: ז כִּי מִי-גוֹי גָּדוֹל אֲשֶׁר-לוֹ אֱלֹהִים קְרֹבִים אֵלָיו כַּיהוָֹה אֱלֹהֵינוּ בְּכָל-קָרְאֵנוּ אֵלָיו: ח וּמִי גּוֹי גָּדוֹל אֲשֶׁר-לוֹ חֻקִּים וּמִשְׁפָּטִים צַדִּיקִם כְּכֹל הַתּוֹרָה הַזֹּאת אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי נֹתֵן לִפְנֵיכֶם הַיּוֹם:
Deuteronomy 4:6–8
4:6 “So keep and do them, for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ 4:7 “For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the LORD our God whenever we call on Him? 4:8 “Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole law which I am setting before you today? (NASB)
We note according to Genesis 12:2-3, the Lord God of Israel promises to Abram includes the blessing that all families of the earth will be blessed through him. This sets the foundation for Israel’s role in bringing blessings to all nations. In Exodus 19:5-6 the Lord God speaks to Israel at Mount Sinai and calls His people to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, indicating their special role among the nations. In Numbers 24:17, Balaam’s prophecy speaks of a star that will come out of Jacob and a scepter will rise out of Israel. This is often seen as a messianic prophecy, hinting at Israel’s future leadership and influence. And in Deuteronomy 4:6-8 Moshe emphasizes that the wisdom and understanding of the Torah given to Israel will be recognized by other nations, showing the wisdom and greatness of God’s people. These passages collectively highlight the recurring theme of the role of God’s people to reflect God’s light and blessings to all nations, serving as a beacon of wisdom and righteousness.
The Greater Context of Surrounding Chapters
- Isaiah 59: The chapter prior to Isaiah 60 speaks of the separation caused by sin and the promise of redemption. It highlights the need for God’s intervention to bring about justice and salvation. This chapter addresses the problem of sin and separation from God, explaining that the people’s iniquities have created a barrier between them and God. However, chapter 59 ends with a promise of redemption and a covenant that God’s Spirit and words will remain with His people.
- Isaiah 60: The entire chapter focuses on the future glory of Jerusalem, depicting a time when the city will be a beacon of light and a center of prosperity and worship for all nations.
- Isaiah 61: This chapter continues the theme of restoration and salvation, describing the Messiah’s mission to bring good news, heal the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to captives. It includes the famous passage about the Anointed One who brings good news to the poor, binds up the brokenhearted, and proclaims liberty to captives. This chapter further develops the promises of transformation and blessing.
- Isaiah 62: The following chapter emphasizes Jerusalem’s new name and identity as a city beloved by God. It speaks of God’s delight in His people and their role as a royal diadem in His hand.
These concepts of restoration and glory highlight a complete reversal of Israel’s fortunes. The nation, once oppressed and desolate, will become glorious and prosperous. The transformation is attributed directly to God’s intervention. It’s not by human effort but by divine decree that Israel will experience this renewal. The nations of the earth will recognize this and submit to Israel fulfilling what is written in the Torah of God. We also note the eternal nature of these promises which underscores the lasting relationship between God and His people.
In summary, Isaiah 60:12-22 paints a picture of a future where God’s people are exalted, blessed, and in perpetual communion with Him, and we note how this is in connection to the Messiah when we consider the broader context. The broader context of Isaiah 59-62 enhances this vision. Isaiah 59 addresses the problem of sin and separation from God, ending with the promise of a Redeemer who will establish a new covenant. Isaiah 61 introduces the Anointed One (Messiah) who brings good news, healing, and freedom, which Yeshua references in Luke 4:18-19, signaling its fulfillment through his ministry. Isaiah 62 continues the theme of Zion’s restoration and vindication, portraying Zion as a crown of glory in God’s hand. Collectively, these chapters depict a future where the Messiah plays a crucial role in restoring Israel, ensuring God’s perpetual presence, and guiding people in righteousness, aligning with the divine transformation and blessings promised in Isaiah 60:12-22. Since the disciples and Paul drew upon the book of Isaiah in their understanding of the Messiah, we can see the book of Isaiah in the NT text!
Masoretic Text (MSS) on Isaiah 60:12-22
Isaiah goes on saying the following according to Isaiah 60:12-17.
ספר ישעיה פרק ס
יב כִּי-הַגּוֹי וְהַמַּמְלָכָה אֲשֶׁר לֹא-יַעַבְדוּךְ יֹאבֵדוּ וְהַגּוֹיִם חָרֹב יֶחֱרָבוּ: יג כְּבוֹד הַלְּבָנוֹן אֵלַיִךְ יָבוֹא בְּרוֹשׁ תִּדְהָר וּתְאַשּׁוּר יַחְדָּו לְפָאֵר מְקוֹם מִקְדָּשִׁי וּמְקוֹם רַגְלַי אֲכַבֵּד: יד וְהָלְכוּ אֵלַיִךְ שְׁחוֹחַ בְּנֵי מְעַנַּיִךְ וְהִשְׁתַּחֲווּ עַל-כַּפּוֹת רַגְלַיִךְ כָּל-מְנַאֲצָיִךְ וְקָרְאוּ לָךְ עִיר יְהֹוָה צִיּוֹן קְדוֹשׁ יִשְֹרָאֵל: טו תַּחַת הֱיוֹתֵךְ עֲזוּבָה וּשְֹנוּאָה וְאֵין עוֹבֵר וְשַֹמְתִּיךְ לִגְאוֹן עוֹלָם מְשֹוֹשֹ דּוֹר וָדוֹר: טז וְיָנַקְתְּ חֲלֵב גּוֹיִם וְשֹׁד מְלָכִים תִּינָקִי וְיָדַעַתְּ כִּי אֲנִי יְהֹוָה מוֹשִׁיעֵךְ וְגֹאֲלֵךְ אֲבִיר יַעֲקֹב: יז תַּחַת הַנְּחֹשֶׁת אָבִיא זָהָב וְתַחַת הַבַּרְזֶל אָבִיא כֶסֶף וְתַחַת הָעֵצִים נְחֹשֶׁת וְתַחַת הָאֲבָנִים בַּרְזֶל וְשַֹמְתִּי פְקֻדָּתֵךְ שָׁלוֹם וְנֹגְשַֹיִךְ צְדָקָה:
Isaiah 60:12 states, “For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted. (כִּי-הַגּוֹי וְהַמַּמְלָכָה אֲשֶׁר לֹא-יַעַבְדוּךְ יֹאבֵדוּ וְהַגּוֹיִם חָרֹב יֶחֱרָבוּ)” Isaiah 60:13 “The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious. (כְּבוֹד הַלְּבָנוֹן אֵלַיִךְ יָבוֹא בְּרוֹשׁ תִּדְהָר וּתְאַשּׁוּר יַחְדָּו לְפָאֵר מְקוֹם מִקְדָּשִׁי וּמְקוֹם רַגְלַי אֲכַבֵּד)” Isaiah 60:14 “The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee; The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel. (וְהָלְכוּ אֵלַיִךְ שְׁחוֹחַ בְּנֵי מְעַנַּיִךְ וְהִשְׁתַּחֲווּ עַל-כַּפּוֹת רַגְלַיִךְ כָּל-מְנַאֲצָיִךְ וְקָרְאוּ לָךְ עִיר יְהֹוָה צִיּוֹן קְדוֹשׁ יִשְֹרָאֵל)” Isaiah 60:15 “Whereas thou has been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. (תַּחַת הֱיוֹתֵךְ עֲזוּבָה וּשְֹנוּאָה וְאֵין עוֹבֵר וְשַֹמְתִּיךְ לִגְאוֹן עוֹלָם מְשֹוֹשֹ דּוֹר וָדוֹר)” Isaiah 60:16 “Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. (וְיָנַקְתְּ חֲלֵב גּוֹיִם וְשֹׁד מְלָכִים תִּינָקִי וְיָדַעַתְּ כִּי אֲנִי יְהֹוָה מוֹשִׁיעֵךְ וְגֹאֲלֵךְ אֲבִיר יַעֲקֹב)” Isaiah 60:17 “For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness. (תַּחַת הַנְּחֹשֶׁת אָבִיא זָהָב וְתַחַת הַבַּרְזֶל אָבִיא כֶסֶף וְתַחַת הָעֵצִים נְחֹשֶׁת וְתַחַת הָאֲבָנִים בַּרְזֶל וְשַֹמְתִּי פְקֻדָּתֵךְ שָׁלוֹם וְנֹגְשַֹיִךְ צְדָקָה)”
Cross References on Isaiah 60:12-17: Ge 27:29; 32:28; 49:24; Ex 6:2, 7; 14:30; Dt 21:15; 1 Ki 10:21, 27; 1 Ch 28:2; Ezr 3:7; Job 19:25; Ps 46:4; 47:4; 85:8, 10; 99:5; 110:5; 126:5; 132:2, 5, 7; 147:14; Is 1:7–9, 26; 2:3; 3:12; 4:2; 6:11–13; 9:7; 11:14; 14:1–2; 19:20; 25:9; 33:8; 34:10; 35:2; 41:11, 14, 19; 43:3, 11, 14; 45:14–15, 21, 23; 47:4; 49:14, 22–26; 54:6–10, 58:3; 59:20; 60:7, 9; 61:2, 6; 62:2, 4; 63:8, 16; 65:18; 66:1, 5, 11–12; Je 30:17; Eze 43:7; Da 2:34; Hag 2:9; Zec 8:23; 14:17–19; Mt 21:44; 1 Th 2:7; Heb 12:22; Re 3:9; 14:1; 21:1–27; 22:6–9
Isaiah 60:12-17 presents a prophetic vision of the ultimate glory and restoration of Zion, intertwined with divine judgment and blessings. The use of the word גּוֹי (translated as nation or people) in verse 12, emphasizes to whom the message is directed, suggesting that all nations are called to serve and recognize the sovereignty of God. The word יֹאבֵדוּ (will perish) emphasizes the severity of judgment on the nations that do not serve God. In Isaiah 60:13, Lebanon is mentioned as a symbol of beauty and abundance. The passage is part of a vision of future glory and restoration for Jerusalem. The mention of various trees like בְּרוֹשׁ (cypress), תִּדְהָר (pine), and תְּאַשּׁוּר (box tree) symbolizes the abundance and diversity of blessings that will adorn the sanctuary, reinforcing the image of divine splendor. The trees of Lebanon, like the cedar, are renowned for their quality and strength, often used in construction and decoration of significant buildings, including the temple in Jerusalem. In this context, Lebanon’s mention underscores the idea that the wealth and splendor of nations will contribute to the rebuilding and beautification of Jerusalem. This is used as a powerful metaphor for the future prosperity and divine favor that will be bestowed upon the city. This passage communicates a message of hope, showing how even distant lands will honor and enhance the glory of Jerusalem in its time of restoration. Note also the phrase מְקוֹם מִקְדָּשִׁי (the place of my sanctuary) highlights the importance of God’s dwelling place, which will be glorified and beautified with the finest materials, symbolizing the restoration and exaltation of Jerusalem.
In verse 14, יִשְׁתַּחֲווּ (bow down, worship) underscores a future where former oppressors will recognize and submit to the sovereignty of God, marking a reversal of fortunes. In verse 14, the expression שְׁחוֹחַ בְּנֵי מְעַנַּיִךְ (the sons of those who afflicted you shall come bending to you), signifies a reversal of fortunes, where those who once oppressed will bow down and acknowledge the authority of God’s chosen people. This act of bowing down symbolizes not only a gesture of respect but also an acknowledgment of the divine favor and the elevated status of God’s chosen people. This is consistent with the Torah descriptions of God’s people.
ספר שמות פרק יט
ה וְעַתָּה אִם-שָׁמוֹעַ תִּשְׁמְעוּ בְּקֹלִי וּשְׁמַרְתֶּם אֶת-בְּרִיתִי וִהְיִיתֶם לִי סְגֻלָּה מִכָּל-הָעַמִּים כִּי-לִי כָּל-הָאָרֶץ: ו וְאַתֶּם תִּהְיוּ-לִי מַמְלֶכֶת כֹּהֲנִים וְגוֹי קָדוֹשׁ אֵלֶּה הַדְּבָרִים אֲשֶׁר תְּדַבֵּר אֶל-בְּנֵי יִשְֹרָאֵל:
Exodus 19:5–6
19:5 ‘Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; 19:6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.” (NASB)
ספר דברים פרק ז
ו כִּי עַם קָדוֹשׁ אַתָּה לַיהוָֹה אֱלֹהֶיךָ בְּךָ בָּחַר | יְהֹוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ לִהְיוֹת לוֹ לְעַם סְגֻלָּה מִכֹּל הָעַמִּים אֲשֶׁר עַל-פְּנֵי הָאֲדָמָה:
Deuteronomy 7:6
7:6 “For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. (NASB)
The verses from Exodus 19:5-6 and Deuteronomy 7:6 emphasize the unique relationship and responsibility of being God’s chosen people. Here are some key takeaways on how we might live in relation to these verses:
Key Themes & Outcomes of these verses?
- Holiness and Obedience: The call to be a “holy nation” and “treasured possession” suggests living in a way that is set apart and in accordance with God’s commandments. This means striving to live a life of integrity, morality, and righteousness.
- Covenantal Relationship: Maintaining a close and faithful relationship with God, as these verses highlight the importance of the covenant. This involves regular prayer, worship, and adherence to God’s will.
- Witness and Service: Being a “kingdom of priests” implies serving others and acting as a conduit for God’s love and justice. This can be through acts of kindness, compassion, and social justice.
- Humility and Gratitude: Recognizing the special status bestowed by God should lead to humility rather than pride. It means being grateful and using one’s blessings to bless others.
Living in relation to these verses from the Torah involves a commitment to embody the values and principles that define a holy and chosen people. It’s about striving to reflect God’s love, justice, and compassion in all aspects of life. So, this should affect our daily conduct, we should strive to live a life that reflects your faith, making ethical choices and treating others with respect and kindness. We should engage in activities that uplift our community, such as volunteering, charity work, and promoting justice and truth. We should invest time in personal and community based spiritual practices like prayer, study of the scriptures, and participation in worship services. And we should be involved in mentorship and leadership guiding others in their spiritual journey and be a positive influence in our community. Can you see the implications and the power God’s word demonstrated in just a couple verses from the Torah that are being used to help understand the other biblical texts?
Isaiah 60:15 speaks of transformation, from being עֲזוּבָה (forsaken) to גְּאוֹן עוֹלָם (eternal excellency) highlights a profound change from desolation to perpetual honor, suggesting themes of redemption and hope. We note how this profound transformation is emphasized in the NT text, especially from the sense of the gentiles who were formerly spiritually alienated to having divine favor because of faith in the God of Israel and in Yeshua. This transformation from the NT perspective is marked by what we read in the NT text. Faith in the Messiah Yeshua leads to a changed life where we receive a renewal of mind and spirit, where we live our lives guided by the principles and teachings of Yeshua which are consistent with the Torah of God. We receive a new identity as the children of God and ambassadors of Christ, with a mission to spread the message of hope and salvation. We also have an eternal hope holding onto the promise of eternal life and the ultimate restoration of all things, as foretold in the scriptures. The transformation described in Isaiah 60:15 beautifully parallels the transformative work of the Messiah Yeshua in the lives of believers, showcasing the continuity and fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
Additional NT parallels include examples from Revelation 21:24-26 which describes the nations walking in the light of the New Jerusalem and bringing their glory and honor into it, echoing the idea of the nations recognizing and serving God. Additionally, the theme of reversal, where the oppressed are exalted, can be found in passages such as Matthew 5:3-12 (the Beatitudes) and Luke 1:52-53. The Hebrew text provides a deeper understanding of the message in Isaiah 60:12-17, emphasizing God’s sovereignty, the restoration and exaltation of Jerusalem, the reversal of fortunes, and the theme of redemption. We note how these things encourage us to believe in all of Scripture, to understand that Scripture is not done away with due to it being in the Tanakh (Old Testament). We can trust in God’s promises, believe in the blessed hope of the Messiah, and seek to live lives that reflect His righteousness and peace.
Isaiah goes on saying the following according to Isaiah 60:18-22.
ספר ישעיה פרק ס
יח לֹא-יִשָּׁמַע עוֹד חָמָס בְּאַרְצֵךְ שֹׁד וָשֶׁבֶר בִּגְבוּלָיִךְ וְקָרָאת יְשׁוּעָה חוֹמֹתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ תְּהִלָּה: יט לֹא-יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ עוֹד הַשֶּׁמֶשׁ לְאוֹר יוֹמָם וּלְנֹגַהּ הַיָּרֵחַ לֹא-יָאִיר לָךְ וְהָיָה-לָךְ יְהֹוָה לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וֵאלֹהַיִךְ לְתִפְאַרְתֵּךְ: כ לֹא-יָבוֹא עוֹד שִׁמְשֵׁךְ וִירֵחֵךְ לֹא יֵאָסֵף כִּי יְהֹוָה יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וְשָׁלְמוּ יְמֵי אֶבְלֵךְ: כא וְעַמֵּךְ כֻּלָּם צַדִּיקִים לְעוֹלָם יִירְשׁוּ אָרֶץ נֵצֶר מַטָּעַו [מַטָּעַי] מַעֲשֵֹה יָדַי לְהִתְפָּאֵר: כב הַקָּטֹן יִהְיֶה לָאֶלֶף וְהַצָּעִיר לְגוֹי עָצוּם אֲנִי יְהֹוָה בְּעִתָּהּ אֲחִישֶׁנָּה:
Isaiah 60:18 states, “Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. (לֹא-יִשָּׁמַע עוֹד חָמָס בְּאַרְצֵךְ שֹׁד וָשֶׁבֶר בִּגְבוּלָיִךְ וְקָרָאת יְשׁוּעָה חוֹמֹתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ תְּהִלָּה)” Isaiah 60:19 “The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. (לֹא-יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ עוֹד הַשֶּׁמֶשׁ לְאוֹר יוֹמָם וּלְנֹגַהּ הַיָּרֵחַ לֹא-יָאִיר לָךְ וְהָיָה-לָךְ יְהֹוָה לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וֵאלֹהַיִךְ לְתִפְאַרְתֵּךְ)” Isaiah 60:20 “Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. (לֹא-יָבוֹא עוֹד שִׁמְשֵׁךְ וִירֵחֵךְ לֹא יֵאָסֵף כִּי יְהֹוָה יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וְשָׁלְמוּ יְמֵי אֶבְלֵךְ)” Isaiah 60:21 “Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. (וְעַמֵּךְ כֻּלָּם צַדִּיקִים לְעוֹלָם יִירְשׁוּ אָרֶץ נֵצֶר מַטָּעַו [מַטָּעַי] מַעֲשֵֹה יָדַי לְהִתְפָּאֵר)” Isaiah 60:22 “A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time. (הַקָּטֹן יִהְיֶה לָאֶלֶף וְהַצָּעִיר לְגוֹי עָצוּם אֲנִי יְהֹוָה בְּעִתָּהּ אֲחִישֶׁנָּה)”
Cross References on Isaiah 60:18-22: Ge 12:2; 17:6; Ex 15:17; Le 10:3; 26:6; Dt 1:10; 2 Sa 7:10; Job 10:3; Ps 8:6; 27:1; 35:18; 36:9; 37:9, 11, 22; 44:2; 80:8–11; 85:9; 118:27; Is 2:5; 4:3; 5:19; 9:2, 4; 10:22; 11:9; 19:25; 24:16, 23; 26:1–2; 29:23; 30:19, 26; 33:6; 35:10; 41:16; 44:23; 45:11, 24–25; 49:8, 19, 22–26; 51:2, 19; 52:1; 54:14; 57:13; 59:7; 60:1, 11, 61:3, 7, 11; 62:7; 64:8; 65:9, 19; Je 6:7; 31:34; 32:41; 33:9; Eze 37:25; Am 8:9; 9:15; Hab 2:3; Zep 3:20; Zec 2:5; 8:12; 14:6–7; 2 Esd 2:35; Mt 5:5; 13:31–32; 15:13; Jn 8:12; 15:2; Eph 2:10; Jas 1:17; 2 Pe 2:13; 3:12; Re 7:17; 21:1–27; 22:5–9
Isaiah 60:18-22 contains a lot of rich powerful imagery and profound promises of the power of God, even to changing celestial events (i.e. sun and moon). The Hebrew text draws out several nuances that enrich the interpretation, for example, the word חָמָס (violence) in verse 18, is significant because it emphasizes the complete eradication of violence from the land. The word יְשׁוּעָה (Yeshua, Salvation) and תְּהִלָּה (praise) convey a vision where salvation and praise replace destruction and despair, symbolizing renewal and security. In addition, the phrase שֹׁד וָשֶׁבֶר (ruin and destruction) emphasizes the absence of these elements within the borders of Israel. These scriptures particularly remind us of what is written in the book of Revelation. We note the eradication of violence spoken of in Isaiah 60:18 is reminiscent of what we read in Revelation 21:4, where it says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” The description of celestial transformation in Isaiah 60:19-20 describes a time when the sun and moon will no longer be needed for light because the Lord will be an everlasting light. This is echoed in Revelation 21:23, where it says, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” The description of salvation (יְשׁוּעָה) and praise (תְּהִלָּה) in Isaiah 60:18 signify a time when salvation and praise are central to the existence of God’s people. Similarly, Revelation 7:10 depicts a multitude praising God, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” The absence of ruin and destruction in Isaiah 60:18 emphasizes the absence of שֹׁד וָשֶׁבֶר (ruin and destruction) within Israel’s borders. Revelation 21:27 similarly assures that “nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” In verses 19-20, the phrases יְהֹוָה לְאוֹר עוֹלָם (the LORD shall be your everlasting light) and לְתִפְאַרְתֵּךְ (your God your glory) highlight the divine presence as the ultimate source of light and glory, replacing the natural sources of light like the sun and moon. This signifies a direct, unmediated relationship with God, where His presence illuminates and glorifies His people perpetually. These things are evidence of the presence of God and of His glory in the lives of His people. Isaiah 60:22 speaks of the smallest becoming a mighty nation in God’s time. Revelation 21:24-26 talks about the nations walking by the light of the New Jerusalem and bringing their glory and honor into it. Both passages highlight the glorification of God’s people and the importance of His divine presence.
In the New Testament, these themes are echoed in various passages as we had just noted. Again, Isaiah’s vision of the Lord being the everlasting light is paralleled in Revelation 21:23 where “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” Similarly, 2 Peter 3:13 speaks of a new heaven and a new earth, “where righteousness dwells,” reflecting the promise of an all-righteous people inheriting the land. These NT parallels emphasize the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises through the Messiah, Yeshua, who brings about this transformation and eternal glory. By applying these verses to our lives, the Hebrew text emphasizes a future hope of peace, righteousness, and direct communion with God, encouraging faith and perseverance in current challenges. The transformation from violence to salvation, and the personal transformation of individuals underscore the comprehensive nature of God’s redemptive work. The promise of God’s timing and intervention offers reassurance and patience in awaiting these promises.
When we apply the promises and imagery of Isaiah 60:18-22 to our lives, we can experience profound transformation if we submit our lives to the Lord God of Israel and His Messiah Yeshua! Isaiah 60:18 envisions a life where violence and destruction are eradicated, creating a secure and peaceful environment. When we establish our lives around God’s salvation and promises in faithfulness, we foster a community grounded in peace and worship. Isaiah 60:19-20 speaks to relying on God as our everlasting light, shifting our dependence from worldly means to divine guidance. This divine illumination brings clarity and direction to our lives, ending our spiritual and emotional darkness and thus bringing peace and joy. Furthermore, Isaiah 60:21 declares that God’s people will be righteous, inheriting His blessings eternally. Living in alignment with God’s will allows us to glorify Him through our actions. Lastly, Isaiah 60:22 emphasizes trusting in God’s timing and His ability to multiply our small beginnings into great achievements. By internalizing these promises, we experience God’s peace, guidance, and blessings, living in perpetual praise, joy, and righteousness.
Rabbinic Commentary on Isaiah 60:12-22
The Targum Jonathan is an Aramaic and Rabbinic translation of the book of Isaiah and therefore is a valuable resource for continuing to study the book of Isaiah!
תרגום יונתן בן עוזיאל אל ישעיה פרק ס:יב-כב
יב אְרֵי עַם וּמַלכוּ דְלָא יִפלְחוּנִיך יְרוּשלַם יֵיבְדוּן וְעַמְמַיָא אִשתֵיצָאָה יִשתֵיצֹון׃ יג יְקָר לִבנָן לְגַוִיך יִתָעַל בֵירָוָן מֹורָניָן וְאַשכְרָעִין כַחדָא לְשַבָחָא אְתַר בֵית מַקדְשִי וַאְתַר בֵית אַשרָיוּת שְכִינְתִי אְיַקַר׃ יד וִיהָכוּן לְגַוִיך כְפִיפִין בְנֵי מְשַעבְדַך וְיִשתַטחוּן לְמִבעֵי מִנִיך עַל פַרסַת רַגלַך כָל דַהְוֹו מַרגְזִין לִיך וְיִקרֹון לִיך קַרתָא דַיוי צִיֹון דְאִתרְעִי בַה קַדִישָא דְיִשרָאֵל׃ טו חְלָף דַהֲוֵית שְבִיקָא וּמטֻלטְלָא וְלֵית דְעָדֵי וַאְשַוֵינִיך לִיקָר עָלַם בֵית דְיָץ דָר וְדָר׃ טז וְתִסבְעִין נִכסֵי עַמְמַיָא וּבבִיזַת מַלכֵיהֹון תִתפַנְקִין וְתִידְעִין אְרֵי אְנָא יוי פָרְקִיך וּמשֵיזְבִיך תַקִיפָא דְיַעְקֹב׃ יז חְלָף נְחָשָא דְבַזוּ מִנִיך יְרוּשלַם אַיתִי דַהבָא וּחלָף בַרזְלָא אַיתִי כַספָא וּחלָף אָעַיָא נְחָשָא וּחלָף אַבנַיָא בַרזְלָא וַאְשַוֵי פַרנָסַך שְלָם וְשִלטֹונַך בְזָכוּ׃ יח לָא יִשתְמַע עֹוד חִטפָא בְאַרעִיך בִזָא וּתבָרָא בִתחוּמַך וִיעָרְעוּן פֻרקַן עַל שוּרַך וְעַל תַרעַך יְהֹון מְשַבְחִין׃ יט לָא תִצטַרכִין עֹוד לְנֵיהֹור שִמשָא בֵימָמָא וְאַף לָא לְזֵיהֹור סֵיהְרָא בְלֵיליָא וִיהֵי לִיך יוי לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וַאֲלָהֵיך לְתֻשבַחתִיך׃ כ לָא תִבטַל עֹוד מַלכוּתִיך וִיקָרִיך לָא יִעדֵי אְרֵי יוי יְהֵי לִיך לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וְיִשלְמוּן יֹומֵי אַבלִיך׃ כא וְעַמִיך כוּלְהֹון זַכָאִין לְעָלַם יַחסְנוּן אַרעָא נִצבָא דְחַדוְתִי עֹובָד גְבוּרְתִי לְאִשתַבָחָא׃ כב דִזעֵיר בְהֹון יְהֵי לְאַלפָא וּדחַלָש לְעַם תַקִיף אְנָא יוי בְזִמנַה אַיתֵינַה׃
Targum Jonathan son of Uziel Isaiah 60:12-22
60:12 For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee, O Jerusalem, shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly destroyed. 60:13 The glory of Lebanon shall be brought unto thee, the fir-tree, the elm, and the box together, to beautify the place of the house of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of the dwelling of my Shekinah glorious. 60:14 The sons of them that enslaved thee shall come and bow down to thee, and all that provoked thee to anger shall prostrate themselves at the soles of thy feet to make supplication unto thee; and they shall call thee, The city of the Lord, The Zion in which the Holy One of Israel delights. 60:15 Whereas thou hast been forsaken, and an outcast, so that none went through thee, I will make thee an eternal glory, the house of joy for generation and generation. 60:16 And thou shalt be satisfied with the riches of the nations, and in the spoil of their kings thou shalt delight thyself; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord, thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. 60:17 For the brass which they spoiled thee of, O Jerusalem, I will bring gold, and for the iron I will bring silver, and for the wood brass, and for the stones iron: I will also make thy pastors peace, and thy rulers righteousness. 60:18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, spoil nor destruction within thy borders; but they shall proclaim salvation on thy walls, and on thy gates there shall be those that praise. 60:19 Thou shalt need no more the sun for a light by day, neither for brightness the moon by night: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 60:20 Thy kingdom shall cease no more, and thy glory shall not be removed: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. 60:21 Thy people shall be all righteous: for ever shall they inherit the land, the plant of my delight, the work of my might, that I may assuredly be glorified. 60:22 He that is little amongst them shall become a thousand, and he that is weak shall become a strong nation: I the Lord will bring it to pass in its time. (TgJ)
| ספר ישעיה פרק ס יב כִּי-הַגּוֹי וְהַמַּמְלָכָה אֲשֶׁר לֹא-יַעַבְדוּךְ יֹאבֵדוּ וְהַגּוֹיִם חָרֹב יֶחֱרָבוּ: יג כְּבוֹד הַלְּבָנוֹן אֵלַיִךְ יָבוֹא בְּרוֹשׁ תִּדְהָר וּתְאַשּׁוּר יַחְדָּו לְפָאֵר מְקוֹם מִקְדָּשִׁי וּמְקוֹם רַגְלַי אֲכַבֵּד: יד וְהָלְכוּ אֵלַיִךְ שְׁחוֹחַ בְּנֵי מְעַנַּיִךְ וְהִשְׁתַּחֲווּ עַל-כַּפּוֹת רַגְלַיִךְ כָּל-מְנַאֲצָיִךְ וְקָרְאוּ לָךְ עִיר יְהֹוָה צִיּוֹן קְדוֹשׁ יִשְֹרָאֵל: טו תַּחַת הֱיוֹתֵךְ עֲזוּבָה וּשְֹנוּאָה וְאֵין עוֹבֵר וְשַֹמְתִּיךְ לִגְאוֹן עוֹלָם מְשֹוֹשֹ דּוֹר וָדוֹר: טז וְיָנַקְתְּ חֲלֵב גּוֹיִם וְשֹׁד מְלָכִים תִּינָקִי וְיָדַעַתְּ כִּי אֲנִי יְהֹוָה מוֹשִׁיעֵךְ וְגֹאֲלֵךְ אֲבִיר יַעֲקֹב: יז תַּחַת הַנְּחֹשֶׁת אָבִיא זָהָב וְתַחַת הַבַּרְזֶל אָבִיא כֶסֶף וְתַחַת הָעֵצִים נְחֹשֶׁת וְתַחַת הָאֲבָנִים בַּרְזֶל וְשַֹמְתִּי פְקֻדָּתֵךְ שָׁלוֹם וְנֹגְשַֹיִךְ צְדָקָה: | לוגוס יב אְרֵי עַם וּמַלכוּ דְלָא יִפלְחוּנִיך יְרוּשלַם יֵיבְדוּן וְעַמְמַיָא אִשתֵיצָאָה יִשתֵיצֹון׃ יג יְקָר לִבנָן לְגַוִיך יִתָעַל בֵירָוָן מֹורָניָן וְאַשכְרָעִין כַחדָא לְשַבָחָא אְתַר בֵית מַקדְשִי וַאְתַר בֵית אַשרָיוּת שְכִינְתִי אְיַקַר׃ יד וִיהָכוּן לְגַוִיך כְפִיפִין בְנֵי מְשַעבְדַך וְיִשתַטחוּן לְמִבעֵי מִנִיך עַל פַרסַת רַגלַך כָל דַהְוֹו מַרגְזִין לִיך וְיִקרֹון לִיך קַרתָא דַיוי צִיֹון דְאִתרְעִי בַה קַדִישָא דְיִשרָאֵל׃ טו חְלָף דַהֲוֵית שְבִיקָא וּמטֻלטְלָא וְלֵית דְעָדֵי וַאְשַוֵינִיך לִיקָר עָלַם בֵית דְיָץ דָר וְדָר׃ טז וְתִסבְעִין נִכסֵי עַמְמַיָא וּבבִיזַת מַלכֵיהֹון תִתפַנְקִין וְתִידְעִין אְרֵי אְנָא יוי פָרְקִיך וּמשֵיזְבִיך תַקִיפָא דְיַעְקֹב׃ יז חְלָף נְחָשָא דְבַזוּ מִנִיך יְרוּשלַם אַיתִי דַהבָא וּחלָף בַרזְלָא אַיתִי כַספָא וּחלָף אָעַיָא נְחָשָא וּחלָף אַבנַיָא בַרזְלָא וַאְשַוֵי פַרנָסַך שְלָם וְשִלטֹונַך בְזָכוּ׃ | ספריה יב אְרֵי עַם וּמַלכוּ דְלָא יִפלְחוּנִיך יְרוּשלַם יֵיבְדוּן וְעַמְמַיָא אִשתֵיצָאָה יִשתֵיצֹון׃ יג יְקָר לִבנָן לְגַוִיך יִתָעַל בֵירָוָן מֹורָניָן וְאַשכְרָעִין כַחדָא לְשַבָחָא אְתַר בֵית מַקדְשִי וַאְתַר בֵית אַשרָיוּת שְכִינְתִי אְיַקַר׃ יד וִיהָכוּן לְגַוִיך כְפִיפִין בְנֵי מְשַעבְדַך וְיִשתַטחוּן לְמִבעֵי מִנִיך עַל פַרסַת רַגלַך כָל דַהְוֹו מַרגְזִין לִיך וְיִקרֹון לִיך קַרתָא דַיוי צִיֹון דְאִתרְעִי בַה קַדִישָא דְיִשרָאֵל׃ טו חְלָף דַהֲוֵית שְבִיקָא וּמטֻלטְלָא וְלֵית דְעָדֵי וַאְשַוֵינִיך לִיקָר עָלַם בֵית דְיָץ דָר וְדָר׃ טז וְתִסבְעִין נִכסֵי עַמְמַיָא וּבבִיזַת מַלכֵיהֹון תִתפַנְקִין וְתִידְעִין אְרֵי אְנָא יוי פָרְקִיך וּמשֵיזְבִיך תַקִיפָא דְיַעְקֹב׃ יז חְלָף נְחָשָא דְבַזוּ מִנִיך יְרוּשלַם אַיתִי דַהבָא וּחלָף בַרזְלָא אַיתִי כַספָא וּחלָף אָעַיָא נְחָשָא וּחלָף אַבנַיָא בַרזְלָא וַאְשַוֵי פַרנָסַך שְלָם וְשִלטֹונַך בְזָכוּ׃ |
Isaiah continues saying the following according to the TgJ in Isaiah 60:12-17, יב אְרֵי עַם וּמַלכוּ דְלָא יִפלְחוּנִיך יְרוּשלַם יֵיבְדוּן וְעַמְמַיָא אִשתֵיצָאָה יִשתֵיצֹון׃ 60:12 For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee, O Jerusalem, shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly destroyed. יג יְקָר לִבנָן לְגַוִיך יִתָעַל בֵירָוָן מֹורָניָן וְאַשכְרָעִין כַחדָא לְשַבָחָא אְתַר בֵית מַקדְשִי וַאְתַר בֵית אַשרָיוּת שְכִינְתִי אְיַקַר׃ 60:13 The glory of Lebanon shall be brought unto thee, the fir-tree, the elm, and the box together, to beautify the place of the house of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of the dwelling of my Shekinah glorious. יד וִיהָכוּן לְגַוִיך כְפִיפִין בְנֵי מְשַעבְדַך וְיִשתַטחוּן לְמִבעֵי מִנִיך עַל פַרסַת רַגלַך כָל דַהְוֹו מַרגְזִין לִיך וְיִקרֹון לִיך קַרתָא דַיוי צִיֹון דְאִתרְעִי בַה קַדִישָא דְיִשרָאֵל׃ 60:14 The sons of them that enslaved thee shall come and bow down to thee, and all that provoked thee to anger shall prostrate themselves at the soles of thy feet to make supplication unto thee; and they shall call thee, The city of the Lord, The Zion in which the Holy One of Israel delights. טו חְלָף דַהֲוֵית שְבִיקָא וּמטֻלטְלָא וְלֵית דְעָדֵי וַאְשַוֵינִיך לִיקָר עָלַם בֵית דְיָץ דָר וְדָר׃ 60:15 Whereas thou hast been forsaken, and an outcast, so that none went through thee, I will make thee an eternal glory, the house of joy for generation and generation. טז וְתִסבְעִין נִכסֵי עַמְמַיָא וּבבִיזַת מַלכֵיהֹון תִתפַנְקִין וְתִידְעִין אְרֵי אְנָא יוי פָרְקִיך וּמשֵיזְבִיך תַקִיפָא דְיַעְקֹב׃ 60:16 And thou shalt be satisfied with the riches of the nations, and in the spoil of their kings thou shalt delight thyself; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord, thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. יז חְלָף נְחָשָא דְבַזוּ מִנִיך יְרוּשלַם אַיתִי דַהבָא וּחלָף בַרזְלָא אַיתִי כַספָא וּחלָף אָעַיָא נְחָשָא וּחלָף אַבנַיָא בַרזְלָא וַאְשַוֵי פַרנָסַך שְלָם וְשִלטֹונַך בְזָכוּ׃ 60:17 For the brass which they spoiled thee of, O Jerusalem, I will bring gold, and for the iron I will bring silver, and for the wood brass, and for the stones iron: I will also make thy pastors peace, and thy rulers righteousness. (TgJ) Comparing the Hebrew bible with the Aramaic text, both texts on Isaiah’s prophecies convey promises of God’s restoration and glory for Jerusalem. However, the Targum adds nuances that can affect how we interpret and apply these verses to our lives. For example, in Isaiah 60:12 the Aramaic term עַם וּמַלכוּ דְלָא יִפלְחוּנִיך emphasizes that nations and kingdoms that do not serve Jerusalem will perish. This notion of universal acknowledgment of God’s chosen city aligns with what we had mentioned earlier in the study, how Revelation 21:24 describes the nations who will walk by the light of the New Jerusalem.
In Isaiah 60:13 we read, יְקָר לִבנָן (glory of Lebanon), and this glory is referring to the valuable trees of Lebanon, like the fir, elm, and box, to beautify the sanctuary of God. This adds a layer of divine splendor that parallels the concept in Revelation 21:26 which speaks of the glory and honor of the nations being brought into the New Jerusalem. The TgJ on this verse also uses the phrase אְתַר בֵית מַקדְשִי (the place of the house of my sanctuary) and אְתַר בֵית אַשרָיוּת שְכִינתִי (the place of the dwelling of my Shekinah), which emphasizes the divine presence in the sanctuary. The Hebrew text simply states, “the place of my sanctuary” and does not include the concept of the Shekinah. The inclusion of the Shekhinah underscores the spiritual significance of the sanctuary, transforming it from a mere physical structure into a sacred space where God’s presence resides. This presence brings a deeper sense of holiness and divine connection to the sanctuary, elevating it from being simply beautiful to being a place of profound spiritual significance. The verse therefore suggests that the ultimate glory of the sanctuary lies not in its physical adornments but in the indwelling presence of God, which sanctifies and glorifies the entire space. By understanding the presence of the Shekhinah, we are reminded that true beauty and glory come from God’s presence in our lives. This presence can transform ordinary places and moments into sacred experiences, encouraging us to seek and honor the God of Israel in all aspects of our lives. The application of these verses inspires us to cultivate spaces and actions that invite and reflect God’s glory, just as the sanctuary was adorned for the Shekhinah presence of God.
In Isaiah 60:14, the Aramaic phrase בְנֵי מְשַעבְדַך (children of the oppressed) indicates that the children of those who oppressed Jerusalem will come in humility. This parallels Revelation 3:9, where those of the synagogue of Satan are made to bow at the feet of the faithful. The Targum also refers to קַרתָא דַיוי צִיֹון (the city of the Lord, Zion), whereas the Hebrew text only mentions “the city of the Lord.” This addition in the Targum highlights the significance of Zion as the location of the Holy One of Israel’s delight. The term “Zion” is loaded with symbolic meaning, representing not just a physical location, but also a spiritual center where God’s presence and favor dwell. By explicitly mentioning Zion, the Targum emphasizes that the Holy One of Israel (קַדִישָא דְיִשרָאֵל) delights in this place, making it a focal point of divine activity and blessing. The significance of Zion in this context lies in its portrayal as the city that embodies God’s ultimate redemption and glorification of His people. It signifies a place where former oppressors will acknowledge the supremacy and sanctity of God’s chosen city by bowing down and making supplication. (Making supplication means earnestly and humbly asking or pleading for something, often in a religious or spiritual context. It’s a form of prayer where a person seeks divine help, favor, or mercy. When someone makes supplication, they are typically expressing a deep sense of need and dependence on God.) This imagery reinforces the idea that Zion is not merely a geographic location but a representation of God’s eternal covenant and His commitment to restore and elevate His people. By including Zion in the translation, the Targum Jonathan underscores the eschatological hope and future glory that Zion represents. It reminds us of the profound spiritual and historical significance of Zion as the place of God’s dwelling, where His presence brings ultimate peace, justice, and restoration. This connection inspires us to live in hopeful anticipation of God’s promises and to seek the spiritual significance of Zion in our own lives.
Isaiah 60:15 talks about Jerusalem’s transformation from forsakenness to eternal glory, using the Aramaic term לִיקָר עָלַם (everlasting honor). This transformation echoes Revelation 21:2-4, where the New Jerusalem is described as a bride adorned for her husband, signifying everlasting joy and beauty. In addition, we read the phrase בֵית דְיָץ דָר וְדָר (the house of joy for generation and generation), while the Hebrew text simply states, “the joy of generation and generation.” The Targum’s addition of “house” may emphasize the idea of a physical location where joy will be experienced, specifically this is in reference to the house of God in Jerusalem. Isaiah 60:16 uses the words נִכסֵי עַמְמַיָא to indicate the wealth of the nations that will satisfy Jerusalem. This aligns with Revelation 21:6, where the nations are described as bringing their treasures to the city, indicating God’s provision and blessing. Isaiah 60:17 discusses replacing lesser materials with more precious ones (e.g., brass with gold, iron with silver) and making leaders peace and righteousness (שְלָם וְשִלטֹונַך בְזָכוּ). This concept of divine transformation and leadership is also seen in Revelation 21:18-21, where the city’s foundations and gates are made of precious stones and materials, signifying the ultimate restoration and perfection of God’s kingdom.
In conclusion, while the Targum Jonathan on Isaiah 60:12-17 largely maintains the original Hebrew text’s themes and messages, there are some differences in wording and emphasis, but these do not significantly affect the interpretation and application of these scriptures to our lives. These verses also have parallels in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Revelation, which depicts the ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies in the New Jerusalem.
| ספר ישעיה פרק ס יח לֹא-יִשָּׁמַע עוֹד חָמָס בְּאַרְצֵךְ שֹׁד וָשֶׁבֶר בִּגְבוּלָיִךְ וְקָרָאת יְשׁוּעָה חוֹמֹתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ תְּהִלָּה: יט לֹא-יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ עוֹד הַשֶּׁמֶשׁ לְאוֹר יוֹמָם וּלְנֹגַהּ הַיָּרֵחַ לֹא-יָאִיר לָךְ וְהָיָה-לָךְ יְהֹוָה לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וֵאלֹהַיִךְ לְתִפְאַרְתֵּךְ: כ לֹא-יָבוֹא עוֹד שִׁמְשֵׁךְ וִירֵחֵךְ לֹא יֵאָסֵף כִּי יְהֹוָה יִהְיֶה-לָּךְ לְאוֹר עוֹלָם וְשָׁלְמוּ יְמֵי אֶבְלֵךְ: כא וְעַמֵּךְ כֻּלָּם צַדִּיקִים לְעוֹלָם יִירְשׁוּ אָרֶץ נֵצֶר מַטָּעַו [מַטָּעַי] מַעֲשֵֹה יָדַי לְהִתְפָּאֵר: כב הַקָּטֹן יִהְיֶה לָאֶלֶף וְהַצָּעִיר לְגוֹי עָצוּם אֲנִי יְהֹוָה בְּעִתָּהּ אֲחִישֶׁנָּה: | לוגוס יח לָא יִשתְמַע עֹוד חִטפָא בְאַרעִיך בִזָא וּתבָרָא בִתחוּמַך וִיעָרְעוּן פֻרקַן עַל שוּרַך וְעַל תַרעַך יְהֹון מְשַבְחִין׃ יט לָא תִצטַרכִין עֹוד לְנֵיהֹור שִמשָא בֵימָמָא וְאַף לָא לְזֵיהֹור סֵיהְרָא בְלֵיליָא וִיהֵי לִיך יוי לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וַאֲלָהֵיך לְתֻשבַחתִיך׃ כ לָא תִבטַל עֹוד מַלכוּתִיך וִיקָרִיך לָא יִעדֵי אְרֵי יוי יְהֵי לִיך לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וְיִשלְמוּן יֹומֵי אַבלִיך׃ כא וְעַמִיך כוּלְהֹון זַכָאִין לְעָלַם יַחסְנוּן אַרעָא נִצבָא דְחַדוְתִי עֹובָד גְבוּרְתִי לְאִשתַבָחָא׃ כב דִזעֵיר בְהֹון יְהֵי לְאַלפָא וּדחַלָש לְעַם תַקִיף אְנָא יוי בְזִמנַה אַיתֵינַה׃ | ספריה יח לָא יִשתְמַע עֹוד חִטפָא בְאַרעִיך בִזָא וּתבָרָא בִתחוּמַך וִיעָרְעוּן פֻרקַן עַל שוּרַך וְעַל תַרעַך יְהֹון מְשַבְחִין׃ יט לָא תִצטַרכִין עֹוד לְנֵיהֹור שִמשָא בֵימָמָא וְאַף לָא לְזֵיהֹור סֵיהְרָא בְלֵיליָא וִיהֵי לִיך יוי לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וַאֲלָהֵיך לְתֻשבַחתִיך׃ כ לָא תִבטַל עֹוד מַלכוּתִיך וִיקָרִיך לָא יִעדֵי אְרֵי יוי יְהֵי לִיך לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וְיִשלְמוּן יֹומֵי אַבלִיך׃ כא וְעַמִיך כוּלְהֹון זַכָאִין לְעָלַם יַחסְנוּן אַרעָא נִצבָא דְחַדוְתִי עֹובָד גְבוּרְתִי לְאִשתַבָחָא׃ כב דִזעֵיר בְהֹון יְהֵי לְאַלפָא וּדחַלָש לְעַם תַקִיף אְנָא יוי בְזִמנַה אַיתֵינַה׃ |
Isaiah continues saying the following according to the TgJ on Isaiah 60:18-22 saying, יח לָא יִשתְמַע עֹוד חִטפָא בְאַרעִיך בִזָא וּתבָרָא בִתחוּמַך וִיעָרְעוּן פֻרקַן עַל שוּרַך וְעַל תַרעַך יְהֹון מְשַבְחִין׃ 60:18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, spoil nor destruction within thy borders; but they shall proclaim salvation on thy walls, and on thy gates there shall be those that praise. יט לָא תִצטַרכִין עֹוד לְנֵיהֹור שִמשָא בֵימָמָא וְאַף לָא לְזֵיהֹור סֵיהְרָא בְלֵיליָא וִיהֵי לִיך יוי לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וַאֲלָהֵיך לְתֻשבַחתִיך׃ 60:19 Thou shalt need no more the sun for a light by day, neither for brightness the moon by night: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. כ לָא תִבטַל עֹוד מַלכוּתִיך וִיקָרִיך לָא יִעדֵי אְרֵי יוי יְהֵי לִיך לְנֵיהֹור עָלַם וְיִשלְמוּן יֹומֵי אַבלִיך׃ 60:20 Thy kingdom shall cease no more, and thy glory shall not be removed: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. כא וְעַמִיך כוּלְהֹון זַכָאִין לְעָלַם יַחסְנוּן אַרעָא נִצבָא דְחַדוְתִי עֹובָד גְבוּרְתִי לְאִשתַבָחָא׃ 60:21 Thy people shall be all righteous: for ever shall they inherit the land, the plant of my delight, the work of my might, that I may assuredly be glorified. כב דִזעֵיר בְהֹון יְהֵי לְאַלפָא וּדחַלָש לְעַם תַקִיף אְנָא יוי בְזִמנַה אַיתֵינַה׃60:22 He that is little amongst them shall become a thousand, and he that is weak shall become a strong nation: I the Lord will bring it to pass in its time. (TgJ) In Isaiah 60:18, the Aramaic term חִטפָא (ḥitfa, violence) emphasizes the eradication of violence and spoil from the land. This aligns with Revelation 21:4, where God wipes away every tear, and there is no more death or pain. The proclamation of salvation (פֻרקַן) on the walls and praise (מְשַבְחִין) at the gates highlights a life centered on God’s deliverance and worship, fostering a community of peace and devotion. The word מְשַבְחִין (those that praise) describes those who will be at the gates of Jerusalem, while the Hebrew text simply states “praise.” This addition in the Targum emphasizes the presence of people actively engaging in praise and seeking the God of Israel.
Isaiah 60:19 describes the Lord as an everlasting light (נֵיהֹור עָלַם) and the source of glory (תֻשבַחתִיך). This mirrors Revelation 21:23, where the New Jerusalem does not need the sun or moon, for God’s glory provides its light, emphasizing reliance on divine illumination and guidance. Isaiah 60:20 continues this theme and promises that the kingdom (מַלכוּתִיך) will never end, and mourning will cease. This is again echoed in Revelation 22:5, where the Lord God and the Lamb of God are described as the everlasting light, and God’s servants reign forever, indicating eternal joy and divine presence in the midst of God’s people, which is a Torah centric principle.
Isaiah 60:21 declares that the people will be righteous (זַכָאִין) and inherit the land forever, signifying a life aligned with God’s will which brings glory to His name. This parallels Revelation 21:7, where those who overcome will inherit all things, reflecting the fulfillment of God’s promises to His people. Note also how the Targum refers to אַרעָא נִצבָא דְחַדוְתִי (the plant of my delight) and עֹובָד גְבוּרְתִי (the work of my might), whereas the Hebrew text simply states, “the branch of his planting” and “the work of my hands.” The Targum’s wording emphasizes God’s delight in his people and the power of His work in the lives of His people. In Isaiah 60:22 we find the phrase בְזִמנַה אַיתֵינַה (I will bring it to pass in its time), while the Hebrew text simply states, “I the Lord will hasten it in its time.” The Targum’s wording emphasizes God’s active role in bringing about the fulfillment of the prophecy. Isaiah 60:22 also speaks of God’s power to multiply and strengthen the people. The smallest will become a thousand, and the weak (דחַלָש) will become a strong nation (עַם תַקִיף). This concept is also seen in Revelation 3:12, where believers are promised a place in God’s eternal city, underscoring the transformative power of God’s promises.
Revelation 3:12
3:12 ‘He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. (NASB)
While the Targum Jonathan on Isaiah 60:18-22 largely maintains the original Hebrew text’s themes and messages, there are some differences in wording and emphasis that can impact interpretation and application. These verses also parallel the NT, particularly in the book of Revelation, which depicts the ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies in the New Jerusalem. We note how these things always draw us back to the land of Israel and to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to Jerusalem and His people which are vividly depicted. As we take these promises and make them a part of our lives, we are encouraged to live in hope and anticipation of God’s transformative power in our lives and the world. In fact, we can expect that God will work powerfully in our lives to overcome sin and bring glory to His name!
