The Peace of a Nation is Found in Being Taught by God, ישעיהו נד:יב-יז / Isaiah 54,12-17

Introduction to Isaiah 54:12-17

In Isaiah 54:12-17, Isaiah speaks of a future time when our children will be taught of the Lord. We read the following according to Isaiah 54:13.

ספר ישעיה פרק נד
יג   וְכָל-בָּנַיִךְ לִמּוּדֵי יְהֹוָה וְרַב שְׁלוֹם בָּנָיִךְ: 

Isaiah 54:13 
54:13 “And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children. (NASB)

We note how Isaiah describes the peace of a nation is found in being taught by God. The greatest wealth of God’s people is that their children become disciples of the Lord. Essentially, the essence of a relationship with God is learning His ways and replicating His character. This is why the Lord God promised His Spirit to be given to those who have faith in His Messiah. The God of Israel fills us with Himself, cleansing us from sin while preserving our individuality and autonomy to choose to serve and worship Him (free will). This is emphasized from the Torah, based upon Deuteronomy 6:5-7.

ספר דברים פרק ו
ה   וְאָהַבְתָּ אֵת יְהוָֹה אֱלֹהֶיךָ בְּכָל-לְבָבְךָ וּבְכָל-נַפְשְׁךָ וּבְכָל-מְאֹדֶךָ: ו   וְהָיוּ הַדְּבָרִים הָאֵלֶּה אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי מְצַוְּךָ הַיּוֹם עַל-לְבָבֶךָ: ז   וְשִׁנַּנְתָּם לְבָנֶיךָ וְדִבַּרְתָּ בָּם בְּשִׁבְתְּךָ בְּבֵיתֶךָ וּבְלֶכְתְּךָ בַדֶּרֶךְ וּבְשָׁכְבְּךָ וּבְקוּמֶךָ:

Deuteronomy 6:5–7  
6:5 “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6:6 “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. 6:7 “You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. (NASB)

Note how the Torah describes being at peace (שלום) with God and with one another. This is what is known as the wholeness of relationship, that of being in a state of completeness at harmony with others. This is why Isaiah speaks of when “All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.” (Isaiah 54:13:) Note the purpose of the giving of the Spirit is for guidance and for empowering to do these things. Ezekiel describes this in the following way according to Ezekiel 36:27.

ספר יחזקאל פרק לו
 כז   וְאֶת-רוּחִי אֶתֵּן בְּקִרְבְּכֶם וְעָשִֹיתִי אֵת אֲשֶׁר-בְּחֻקַּי תֵּלֵכוּ וּמִשְׁפָּטַי תִּשְׁמְרוּ וַעֲשִֹיתֶם:

Ezekiel 36:27  
36:27 “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances. (NASB)

Note how Isaiah described this previously saying, “The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.” (Isaiah 32:17) and “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3) The idea is of the Lord God creating in us a heart and desire to live for Him. (Psalms 51:10) These Scriptures speak of the transformative power of God that is given through the filling of His Spirit which leads to a life of peace and wholeness. These concepts highlight that both peace (wholeness) and righteousness are outcomes of being disciples of the Lord. These concepts are interconnected, reflecting different aspects of a unified spiritual reality. A person striving to know and do what is right in God’s eyes has a cohesive and unified life purpose, meaning that he or she is confident in who they are as a child of God, there is no fear, there is no depression, one knows one’s purpose in life! Furthermore, those made whole by God are freed from the corruption of sin and death. God’s promise is to establish His people in righteousness, which is eternal and unchanging, unlike transient earthly cities. This eternal righteousness enables us to be part of a spiritual city named Salvation, whose walls will never fall, all of which are found in the Messiah of God. 

Masoretic Text on Isaiah 54:12-17

Isaiah goes on saying the following according to Isaiah 54:12-14.

ספר ישעיה פרק נד
יב   וְשַֹמְתִּי כַּדְכֹד שִׁמְשֹׁתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי אֶקְדָּח וְכָל-גְּבוּלֵךְ לְאַבְנֵי-חֵפֶץ: יג   וְכָל-בָּנַיִךְ לִמּוּדֵי יְהֹוָה וְרַב שְׁלוֹם בָּנָיִךְ: יד   בִּצְדָקָה תִּכּוֹנָנִי רַחֲקִי מֵעֹשֶׁק כִּי-לֹא תִירָאִי וּמִמְּחִתָּה כִּי לֹא-תִקְרַב אֵלָיִךְ: 

Isaiah 54:12 states, “And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones. (וְשַֹמְתִּי כַּדְכֹד שִׁמְשֹׁתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי אֶקְדָּח וְכָל-גְּבוּלֵךְ לְאַבְנֵי-חֵפֶץ)” Isaiah 54:13 “And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children. (וְכָל-בָּנַיִךְ לִמּוּדֵי יְהֹוָה וְרַב שְׁלוֹם בָּנָיִךְ)” Isaiah 54:14 “In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. (בִּצְדָקָה תִּכּוֹנָנִי רַחֲקִי מֵעֹשֶׁק כִּי-לֹא תִירָאִי וּמִמְּחִתָּה כִּי לֹא-תִקְרַב אֵלָיִךְ)” 

Cross References for Isaiah 54:12-14: Le 26:6; 1 Sa 10:12; 2 Sa 7:10; Ps 91:10; 119:165; Is 1:26–27; 2:3; 6:5; 8:16; 9:4, 7; 11:9; 14:4; 17:14; 26:2; 28:9; 32:12; 33:18; 48:18; 54:4; 62:1; 66:12; Je 30:20; 31:33–34; Eze 27:16; Joe 2:28; Mic 4:2; Zep 3:15; Zec 9:8; Lk 21:9–19; Jn 6:22–27, 45; 14:26; Ac 2:39; 4:1–13; 1 Co 2:10; 1 Th 4:9; Heb 8:11; 1 Jn 2:20, 22–29; Re 21:21

In Isaiah 54:12-14, there are several interesting features that can affect the interpretation of these verses to our lives, for example, in Isaiah 54:12 we find the words וְשַֹמְתִּי כַּדְכֹד שִׁמְשֹׁתַיִךְ(I will place precious stone in your battlements) and וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי אֶקְדָּח (and your gates a precious stone). Note the word שִׁמְשֹׁתַיִךְ (your battlements) is a difficult word to translate since the root seems to be שמש (sun). The KJV translates this as “windows of agates.” Also making the gates שְׁעָרַיִךְ (your gates) precious stones these words suggest how God will make the city out of precious stones and to be peaceful and prosperous (of great value). The imagery of gates made of valuable stones, a symbol of beauty and fragrance, adds to the positive connotation of the verse. In addition, this word אֶקְדָּח (precious stones) is unusual and places more emphasis on the value of the stone. It could also suggest the idea of being ground down or broken, which might have a metaphorical significance in the context of trials and tribulations. In addition, the words לְאַבְנֵי-חֵפֶץ (for stones of delight / pleasure) also add to the imagery of a beautiful and desirable city. Isaiah 54:13 contains the words לִמּוּדֵי יְהֹוָה (disciples of the Lord) which suggests that the children will be educated in the ways of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of spiritual education and the influence of God’s teachings on future generations. This is coupled with “abundance of peace” (רַב שְׁלוֹם) which underscores the theme of peace and prosperity in the verse, suggesting that the city and its inhabitants will experience a profound sense of peace and security. In Isaiah 54:14 Isaiah says, בִּצְדָקָה (In righteousness) which describes how righteousness is the foundation of our security and stability because this distances us from sin, and corresponding relationship to oppression and fear. Note that sin brings oppression and fear (see Deuteronomy 28:15-69).

There are parallels in the NT text to the concepts found in these verses that echo the themes of precious stones, peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth found in Isaiah 54:12-14. For example, Revelation 21:21-22 describes the New Jerusalem with its twelve gates, each made of a single pearl, and the city’s walls adorned with twelve foundations, bearing the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb where each foundation is made with a precious stone. This imagery parallels the idea of a city with beautifully adorned gates and walls. We read in Matthew 11:28-30 how Yeshua invites people to come to him for rest, saying, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” This verse parallels the idea of learning and following the teachings of the Lord, as mentioned in Isaiah 54:13. Yeshua also says in John 6:45 “It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me.” This also parallels Isaiah 54:13. According to John 14:27 we read, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” This verse echoes the theme of peace found in Isaiah 54:13, suggesting that those who follow Jesus will experience a deep and lasting peace. In 1 Peter 2:5 Peter writes saying, “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” This mirrors the idea of God’s people being precious and integral parts of His divine plan in the lives of His people. Being taught by the Lord is also echoed in Hebrews 8:10-11 “I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts… No longer will they teach their neighbor… because they will all know me.” Having peace and righteousness is also echoed according to Paul in Romans 5:1 “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” And in Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Notice how these concepts from Isaiah 54:12-14 are found throughout the NT text. These things again provide a continuity of truth that is found in the Messiah of God.

Isaiah goes on saying the following according to Isaiah 54:15-17.

ספר ישעיה פרק נד
טו   הֵן גּוֹר יָגוּר אֶפֶס מֵאוֹתִי מִי-גָר אִתָּךְ עָלַיִךְ יִפּוֹל: טז    הִןֵ [הִנֵּה] אָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי חָרָשׁ נֹפֵחַ בְּאֵשׁ פֶּחָם וּמוֹצִיא כְלִי לְמַעֲשֵֹהוּ וְאָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי מַשְׁחִית לְחַבֵּל: יז   כָּל-כְּלִי יוּצַר עָלַיִךְ לֹא יִצְלָח וְכָל-לָשׁוֹן תָּקוּם-אִתָּךְ לַמִּשְׁפָּט תַּרְשִׁיעִי זֹאת נַחֲלַת עַבְדֵי יְהֹוָה וְצִדְקָתָם מֵאִתִּי נְאֻם-יְהֹוָה:

Isaiah 54:15 states, “Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake. (הֵן גּוֹר יָגוּר אֶפֶס מֵאוֹתִי מִי-גָר אִתָּךְ עָלַיִךְ יִפּוֹל)” Isaiah 54:16 “Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy. (הִןֵ [הִנֵּה] אָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי חָרָשׁ נֹפֵחַ בְּאֵשׁ פֶּחָם וּמוֹצִיא כְלִי לְמַעֲשֵֹהוּ וְאָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי מַשְׁחִית לְחַבֵּל)” Isaiah 54:17 “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD. (כָּל-כְּלִי יוּצַר עָלַיִךְ לֹא יִצְלָח וְכָל-לָשׁוֹן תָּקוּם-אִתָּךְ לַמִּשְׁפָּט תַּרְשִׁיעִי זֹאת נַחֲלַת עַבְדֵי יְהֹוָה וְצִדְקָתָם מֵאִתִּי נְאֻם-יְהֹוָה)” 

Cross References for Isaiah 54:15-17: 2 Sa 24:16; Ps 17:2; 56:6; Pr 26:21; Is 6:5; 8:9–10; 10:5; 13:5; 17:12–14; 27:1–13; 29:8; 41:8–9, 11–16; 44:12; 45:7, 24–25; 46:13; 50:8–9; 54:14; 56:6–8; 63:17; 65:8–9, 13–15; 66:14; Ho 8:4; Joe 3:11–12; Zec 1:20–21; 2 Esd 2:28; Lk 1:54; 21:9–19; Jn 6:22–27; Ac 4:1–13; 6:10; 1 Jn 2:22–29

In the Hebrew text of Isaiah 54:15-17, there are several interesting features that can affect the interpretation and application of these verses to our lives. Isaiah 54:15 opens saying, גּוֹר יָגוּר אֶפֶס מֵאוֹתִי (Indeed, they shall surely gather, but not by Me) indicates that any gathering or conspiracy against God’s people is not of divine origin. It highlights that when we are following in the footsteps of the Messiah, and walking in God’s holy ways, the enemy that comes against us, God is not behind the gathering of our enemies. The remainder of the verse implies that those who trust in God will be protected and provided for. This is indicated in the words עָלַיִךְ יִפּוֹל (Whoever gathers against you shall fall for your sake). Even if adversaries gather, they will ultimately fall, and peace will be established. Isaiah 54:16 goes on saying, אָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי חָרָשׁ נֹפֵחַ (Behold, I have created the smith who blows the fire of coals) which denotes God’s sovereignty over creation, including those who forge weapons. In Isaiah 54:17 we find the famous words, כָּל-כְּלִי יוּצַר עָלַיִךְ לֹא יִצְלָח (No weapon formed against you shall prosper) which is divine assurance that any weapon or tool created against God’s people will not succeed. So, these things speak concerning those who come against Israel, that one should be aware of whom they are taking a stand against, for those who stand against Israel are also standing against the God of Israel! Note how this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord (זֹאת נַחֲלַת עַבְדֵי יְהֹוָה), this is the protection and promises given to those who serve God and walk in His holy ways! Notice the advantages of believing in and serving the God of Israel and His Messiah Yeshua. Note also in Isaiah 54:16 the phrase, הִןֵ [הִנֵּה] אָנֹכִי (Behold I), this phrase is an interjection used to draw attention to the speaker’s words and emphasizes the direct address from God, highlighting his power and presence in the things that are taking place here. These verses highlight how God is personally involved in the lives of His people, and it is for our advantage, because He loves us!

There are parallels in the NT text to these passages from Isaiah 54:15-17 on the topics of protection, judgment, and God’s sovereignty. An example of divine protection is found in Romans 8:31 “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” This parallels the promise that no adversary will succeed against God’s people. Paul also wrote in 2 Corinthians 10:4 “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” This emphasizes the theme of divine protection and empowerment. Paul also wrote according to Ephesians 6:16 “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” This is consistent with the assurance of Isaiah that no weapon formed against God’s people will prosper. Note this is the power of God through faith. Yeshua said according to John 10:28 “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” This speaks to the eternal security and protection of God’s people in the Messiah of God. Note Yeshua also said in Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This verse parallels the idea of trusting in God and finding security in his provision, as mentioned in Isaiah 54:15. Paul says according to Romans 8:31 “What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?” This verse echoes the theme of God’s protection and support, as seen in Isaiah 54:15-17. John in the book of Revelation wrote according to Revelation 2:26-27 what Yeshua said to the church in Thyatira, “To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations—that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’—just as I have received authority from my Father.” This passage reflects the idea of God’s judgment and sovereignty, as mentioned in Isaiah 54:17. The point is that this text from Isaiah 54:15-17 contains promises that have been consistently repeated throughout the Scriptures regarding the protection of God, judgment, and God’s sovereignty over all. Note how the sovereignty of God indicates that the Assyrians and Babylonains did not just come by an accident of history. When one lives a life of unrepentant sin, there are consequences to one’s repetitive rebellious attitude towards God and His holy and righteous ways. The purpose of these invading nations is to wake His people up to the nature of their rebellion, to repent, and to turn from their sins. This is the call on all peoples and all nations in the life and ministry of the Servant Messiah Yeshua according to the NT text. 

Rabbinic Commentary on Isaiah 54:12-17

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 נד:יב-ויז
יב  וֶאֱשַׁוֵי בְמַרְגְלִין אָעָךְ וְתַרְעַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי גְמַר וְכָל תְּחוּמִיךְ לְאַבְנֵי צְרוֹךְ: יג  וְכָל בָּנַיִךְ אַלְפִין בְּאוֹרַיְתָא דַייָ וְסַגֵי יְהֵי שְׁלָם בְּנָךְ: יד  בְזָכוּתָא תִּתַּקְנִין אִתְרַחֲקִי מֵעוּשְׁקָא אֲרֵי לָא תִדְחֲלִין וּמִתְּבִירָא אֲרֵי לָא יֵעוּל עֲלָךְ: טו  הָא אִתְכַּנָשָׁא יִתְכַּנְשׁוּן לִיךְ גַלְוַת עַמִיךְ לְסוֹפָא מַלְכֵי עַמְמַיָא דְמִתְכַּנְשִׁין לַאֲעָקָא לִיךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם בְּגַוִיךְ יִתְרְמוּן: טז  הָא אֲנָא בָּרֵית נַפָּחָא נָפַח נוּר בִּשְׁחוֹרִין וּמַפִּיק מָנָא לְצוֹרְכֵהּ וַאֲנָא בָּרֵית מְחַבְּלָא לְחַבָּלָא: יז  כָּל זַיִן דְיִתַּקַן עֲלַךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם לָא יַצְלַח וְכָל לִישָׁן דִיקוּם עִמָךְ לְדִינָא תְּחַיְבִינֵהּ דָא אַחְסָנַת עֲבָדַיָא דַייָ וְזַכְוָתֵיהוֹן מִן קֳדָמַי אֲמַר יְיָ:

Targum Jonathan son of Uziel Isaiah 54:12-17
54:12 And I will place thy timber with gems, and thy gates shall be of carbuncles, and all thy borders with precious stones. 54:13 And all thy children shall learn the law of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. 54:14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far removed from oppression, for thou shalt not fear it: and from terror; for it shall not come upon thee. 54:15 Behold, the captivity of thy people shall surely be gathered unto thee: in the end, the kings of the nations, who are gathered together to oppress thee, O Jerusalem, shall be cast down in the midst of thee. 54:16 Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his use; and I have created the destroyer to destroy. 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee, O Jerusalem, shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from me, saith the Lord. (TgJ)

ספר ישעיה פרק נד      יב   וְשַֹמְתִּי כַּדְכֹד שִׁמְשֹׁתַיִךְ וּשְׁעָרַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי אֶקְדָּח וְכָל-גְּבוּלֵךְ לְאַבְנֵי-חֵפֶץ: יג   וְכָל-בָּנַיִךְ לִמּוּדֵי יְהֹוָה וְרַב שְׁלוֹם בָּנָיִךְ: יד   בִּצְדָקָה תִּכּוֹנָנִי רַחֲקִי מֵעֹשֶׁק כִּי-לֹא תִירָאִי וּמִמְּחִתָּה כִּי לֹא-תִקְרַב אֵלָיִךְ:

לוגוס יב      וַאְשַוֵי כְמַרגַליָן אָעַך וְתַרעַך לְאַבנֵי גְמָר וְכָל תְחוּמַך לְאַבנֵי צְרֹוך׃ יג     וְכָל בְנַך יְהֹון אָלְפִין בְאֹורָיתָא דַיוי וְסַגִי יְהֵי שְלָם בְנַך׃ יד     בְזָכוּתָא תִתַקְנִין אִתרַחְקִי מֵעוּשקָא אְרֵי לָא תִדחְלִין וּמִתְבָרָא אְרֵי לָא יֵיעֹול עְלָך׃

ספריה יב  וֶאֱשַׁוֵי בְמַרְגְלִין אָעָךְ וְתַרְעַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי גְמַר וְכָל תְּחוּמִיךְ לְאַבְנֵי צְרוֹךְ: יג  וְכָל בָּנַיִךְ אַלְפִין בְּאוֹרַיְתָא דַייָ וְסַגֵי יְהֵי שְׁלָם בְּנָךְ: יד  בְזָכוּתָא תִּתַּקְנִין אִתְרַחֲקִי מֵעוּשְׁקָא אֲרֵי לָא תִדְחֲלִין וּמִתְּבִירָא אֲרֵי לָא יֵעוּל עֲלָךְ:

Isaiah continues according to the TgJ on Isaiah 54:12-14 saying, יב  וֶאֱשַׁוֵי בְמַרְגְלִין אָעָךְ וְתַרְעַיִךְ לְאַבְנֵי גְמַר וְכָל תְּחוּמִיךְ לְאַבְנֵי צְרוֹךְ: 54:12 And I will place thy timber with gems, and thy gates shall be of carbuncles, and all thy borders with precious stones. יג  וְכָל בָּנַיִךְ אַלְפִין בְּאוֹרַיְתָא דַייָ וְסַגֵי יְהֵי שְׁלָם בְּנָךְ: 54:13 And all thy children shall learn the law of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. יד  בְזָכוּתָא תִּתַּקְנִין אִתְרַחֲקִי מֵעוּשְׁקָא אֲרֵי לָא תִדְחֲלִין וּמִתְּבִירָא אֲרֵי לָא יֵעוּל עֲלָךְ: 54:14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far removed from oppression, for thou shalt not fear it: and from terror; for it shall not come upon thee. (TgJ) The Targum Jonathan is an Aramaic translation, it was created to help the exiled Jewish people understand the Hebrew text, which was often difficult to comprehend in its original language. The Targum Jonathan on Isaiah 54:12-14 provides a distinct translation and interpretation that differs from the Hebrew text in several ways. 

Differences Between the Hebrew Text and Targum Jonathan

Isaiah 54:12

וֶאֱשַׁוֵי בְמַרְגְלִין 
Hebrew: “And I will make your pinnacles of rubies, and your gates of jewels.”
Targum Jonathan: “And I will make your pinnacles of rubies, and your gates of stones of choice.”
Difference: The Hebrew text uses “jewels” (פְּנִינִים), while the Targum Jonathan uses “stones of choice” (אַבְנֵי גְמַר).
Interpretation: The Targum Jonathan emphasizes the quality and selection of the stones, possibly highlighting the divine choice and craftsmanship.

וְכָל תְּחוּמִיךְ לְאַבְנֵי צְרוֹךְ 
Hebrew: “And all your territory shall be of precious stones.”
Targum Jonathan: “And all your territory shall be of stones of choice.”
Difference: Similar to the previous verse, the Targum Jonathan uses “stones of choice” instead of “precious stones.”
Interpretation: This again emphasizes the divine selection and quality of the stones, reinforcing the idea of God’s perfect and deliberate design.

Isaiah 54:13

וְכָל בָּנַיִךְ אַלְפִין בְּאוֹרַיְתָא דַייָ 
Hebrew: “And all your children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”
Targum Jonathan: “And all your children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”
Difference: There is no significant difference in this verse between the Hebrew text and the Targum Jonathan.
Interpretation: Both versions emphasize the teaching of the Lord and the resulting peace for the children, highlighting the importance of divine instruction.

Isaiah 54:14

בְזָכוּתָא תִּתַּקְנִין 
Hebrew: “In righteousness you shall be established.”
Targum Jonathan: “In righteousness you shall be established.”
Difference: There is no significant difference in this verse between the Hebrew text and the Targum Jonathan.
Interpretation: Both versions emphasize the establishment in righteousness, highlighting the importance of living a righteous life.

In the NT text there are no direct quotes or references to these specific verses from Isaiah 54:12-14. However, the themes of peace, righteousness, and spiritual growth found in these verses can be seen in various passages. For example, the idea of being “wise in the Torah” (Isaiah 54:13, TgJ) is echoed in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which states that “all Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” Similarly, the theme of being “far removed from oppression” (Isaiah 54:14, TgJ) can be found in Romans 8:1, which declares that “there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

The Shulchan Shel Arba states the following concerning these verses.

Shulchan Shel Arba 4:4
כבר ידעת לדברי רז”ל שהולכים בלשונם אחר לשון התורה וכשם שיש בתורה מאכלים המותרים והאסורים, את זה תאכלו ואת זה לא תאכלו וכתיב מבשרם לא תאכלו ואין לומר שהוא משל ח”ו אלא כפשוטו ממש כן כשאמרו בכאן בבשרו של לויתן יש לנו לומר בודאי שאינו מכל אלא כפשוטו ממש, וכן אמרו עוד (ב”ב שם) עתיד הקדוש ב”ה לעשות סוכה לצדיקים מעורו של לויתן שנאמר (איוב מ) התמלא בשכות עורו, זכה עושין לו סוכה לא זכה עושין לו צל שנאמר (שם) ובצלצל דגים ראשו והשאר פורשו הקב”ה בחומות ירושנים וזיוו מבהיק מסוף העולם ועד סופו שנאמר (ישעיה ס) והלכו גוים לאורך.
And you already knew that the words of our rabbis follow the Torah’s means of expression, and so in the Torah there are permitted and prohibited foods: this you shall eat; this you shall not eat, and it is written, “from their flesh you shall not eat.” *Lev 11:8. You wouldn’t say that this is an allegory – God forbid! – but it’s the actual literal meaning. And so they went on to say The Holy One, blessed be He, will in time to come make a sukkah for the righteous from the skin of Leviathan; for it is said: “Can you fill sukkot with his skin?” *Job 40:31. Sukkot here is spelled with a sin, not a samekh as in sukkah meaning “tent,” and means “darts.” Thus, the meaning of the verse in context is “Can you fill his skin with darts?” If a man is worthy, a sukkah is made for him; if he is not worthy, a shadow [tzel] is made for him, for it is said: “And his head with a fish covering [bi-tziltzel].” *Job 30:41. R. Bahya following the Talmud takes the two parts of this verse in Job as contrasting: the first part hints at the reward of the worthy, the second part to the punishment of the unworthy – “shade.” After this he skips a few lines of Talmud that expand on this theme of the worthy and unworthy’s “rewards.” The rest [of Leviathan] will be spread by the Holy One, blessed be He, upon the walls of Jerusalem, and its splendor will shine from one end of the world to the other; as it is said: “And nations shall walk by Your light.” *Is 60:3, in b. Baba Batra 75a.

This commentary from Shulchan Shel Arba 4:4 discusses the importance of following the literal meaning of the Torah and not interpreting it allegorically. The author emphasizes that just as the Torah contains permitted and prohibited foods – “this you shall eat, and this you shall not eat” – we should not interpret certain passages allegorically. For example, when the Torah discusses not eating the flesh of certain animals, we should take it literally, rather than interpreting it as an allegory. It uses the example of the Leviathan’s skin to illustrate this point. The rabbis explain a passage from the Talmud (Bava Batra 75a) about the skin of Leviathan. In this passage, the Talmud discusses the idea that the Holy One, blessed be He, will make a sukkah for the righteous from the skin of Leviathan. (Job 40:31) The author points out that the word “sukkot” in this context means “darts” rather than the traditional meaning of “tents.” This interpretation highlights the difference between the worthy and the unworthy, with the worthy receiving a sukkah made from Leviathan’s skin, and the unworthy receiving only a shadow. The commentary also mentions that the rest of Leviathan’s remains will be spread upon the walls of Jerusalem, and its splendor will shine from one end of the world to the other. This is supported by the verse from Isaiah 60:3, which states, “And nations shall walk by Your light.” These things emphasize how the gentiles will also partake in the blessing of God’s presence in Jerusalem. The rabbis underscore the importance of adhering to God’s commands as opposed to following one’s own desires. The emphasis on literal interpretation of the Torah’s commands highlights the importance of strict obedience to God’s will. This contrasts with the idea of interpreting the commands to suit one’s own desires. The distinction between the rewards for the worthy and the punishment for the unworthy illustrates the consequences of following God’s commands versus doing what one wants. The righteous receive a sukkah made from Leviathan’s skin, while the unworthy receive only a shadow. The spreading of Leviathan’s skin on the walls of Jerusalem symbolizes the ultimate reward for those who follow God’s will. This divine splendor is a result of obedience and righteousness. These concepts parallel what we find in the NT text, such as what Yeshua states according to Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” And in John 14:15: “If you love me, keep my commands.” Yeshua also says, Matthew 25:21: “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'” John also wrote about the Messiah according to Revelation 22:12 “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” Paul also emphasizes these things when he wrote what he did according to Romans 2:6-8: “God ‘will repay each person according to what they have done.’ To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.” The rabbinic commentary along with the NT text emphasize the importance of aligning one’s actions with God’s will, highlighting the rewards for obedience and the consequences of disobedience. These things align with what we read in Isaiah 54:12-14 according to the hebrew bible and the TgJ such as in the promise of transformation, “I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones.” (Isaiah 54:12) which describes a transformation symbolizing the divine reward for righteousness and obedience, reflecting God’s splendor and attention to detail. Looking at the literal interpretation of the Torah as opposed to allegory provides us with a solid foundation of faith, as it says in Isaiah, “In righteousness you will be established. Tyranny will be far from you; you will have nothing to fear.” (Isaiah 54:14) Having a foundation in righteousness results in stability and freedom from fear and oppression, underscoring the benefits of adhering to God’s will according to His Word!

ספר ישעיה פרק נד      טו   הֵן גּוֹר יָגוּר אֶפֶס מֵאוֹתִי מִי-גָר אִתָּךְ עָלַיִךְ יִפּוֹל: טז    הִןֵ [הִנֵּה] אָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי חָרָשׁ נֹפֵחַ בְּאֵשׁ פֶּחָם וּמוֹצִיא כְלִי לְמַעֲשֵֹהוּ וְאָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי מַשְׁחִית לְחַבֵּל: יז   כָּל-כְּלִי יוּצַר עָלַיִךְ לֹא יִצְלָח וְכָל-לָשׁוֹן תָּקוּם-אִתָּךְ לַמִּשְׁפָּט תַּרְשִׁיעִי זֹאת נַחֲלַת עַבְדֵי יְהֹוָה וְצִדְקָתָם מֵאִתִּי נְאֻם-יְהֹוָה:

לוגוס טו     הָא אִתכַנָשָא יִתכַנשוּן לִיך גָלְוָת עַמִיך לְסֹופָא מַלכֵי עַמְמַיָא דְמִתכַנשִין לְאַעָקָא לִיך יְרוּשלַם בְגַוִיך יִתרְמֹון׃ טז     הָא אֲנָא בְרֵית נַפָחָא נָפַח נוּר בְשִיחֹורִין וּמַפֵיק מָנָא לְצוּרכֵיה וַאְנָא בְרֵית מְחַבְלָא לְחַבָלָא׃ יז     כָל זֵין דְיִתַקַן עְלַך יְרוּשלַם לָא יַצלַח וְכָל לִישָן דִיקוּם עִמִיך לְדִינָא תְחַיְיבִינֵיה דָא אַחסָנַת עַבדַיָא דַיוי וְזָכוּתְהֹון מִן קֳדָמַי אְמַר יוי׃

ספריה טו  הָא אִתְכַּנָשָׁא יִתְכַּנְשׁוּן לִיךְ גַלְוַת עַמִיךְ לְסוֹפָא מַלְכֵי עַמְמַיָא דְמִתְכַּנְשִׁין לַאֲעָקָא לִיךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם בְּגַוִיךְ יִתְרְמוּן: טז  הָא אֲנָא בָּרֵית נַפָּחָא נָפַח נוּר בִּשְׁחוֹרִין וּמַפִּיק מָנָא לְצוֹרְכֵהּ וַאֲנָא בָּרֵית מְחַבְּלָא לְחַבָּלָא: יז  כָּל זַיִן דְיִתַּקַן עֲלַךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם לָא יַצְלַח וְכָל לִישָׁן דִיקוּם עִמָךְ לְדִינָא תְּחַיְבִינֵהּ דָא אַחְסָנַת עֲבָדַיָא דַייָ וְזַכְוָתֵיהוֹן מִן קֳדָמַי אֲמַר יְיָ:

Isaiah continues according to the TgJ on Isaiah 54:15-17 saying, טו  הָא אִתְכַּנָשָׁא יִתְכַּנְשׁוּן לִיךְ גַלְוַת עַמִיךְ לְסוֹפָא מַלְכֵי עַמְמַיָא דְמִתְכַּנְשִׁין לַאֲעָקָא לִיךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם בְּגַוִיךְ יִתְרְמוּן:54:15 Behold, the captivity of thy people shall surely be gathered unto thee: in the end, the kings of the nations, who are gathered together to oppress thee, O Jerusalem, shall be cast down in the midst of thee. טז  הָא אֲנָא בָּרֵית נַפָּחָא נָפַח נוּר בִּשְׁחוֹרִין וּמַפִּיק מָנָא לְצוֹרְכֵהּ וַאֲנָא בָּרֵית מְחַבְּלָא לְחַבָּלָא:54:16 Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his use; and I have created the destroyer to destroy. יז  כָּל זַיִן דְיִתַּקַן עֲלַךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם לָא יַצְלַח וְכָל לִישָׁן דִיקוּם עִמָךְ לְדִינָא תְּחַיְבִינֵהּ דָא אַחְסָנַת עֲבָדַיָא דַייָ וְזַכְוָתֵיהוֹן מִן קֳדָמַי אֲמַר יְיָ:54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee, O Jerusalem, shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from me, saith the Lord. (TgJ) In the Targum Jonathan on Isaiah 54:15-17, there are several differences between the Aramaic text and the Hebrew Bible. 

Differences Between the Hebrew Text and Targum Jonathan

Isaiah 54:15

Hebrew: “הֵן גּוֹר יָגוּר אֶפֶס מֵאוֹתִי מִי-גָר אִתָּךְ עָלַיִךְ יִפּוֹל” (“Indeed, they shall surely gather, but not by Me. Whoever gathers against you shall fall for your sake.”)
Targum Jonathan: “הָא אִתְכַּנָשָׁא יִתְכַּנְשׁוּן לִיךְ גַלְוַת עַמִיךְ לְסוֹפָא מַלְכֵי עַמְמַיָא דְמִתְכַּנְשִׁין לַאֲעָקָא לִיךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם בְּגַוִיךְ יִתְרְמוּן” (“Behold, the exiles of your people shall surely be gathered to you at the end. Kings of the nations who gather against you, O Jerusalem, shall fall within you.”)
Discussion: The Targum emphasizes the gathering of exiles and the ultimate downfall of foreign kings within Jerusalem. This shifts the focus from individual adversaries to nations and exiles, broadening the scope of God’s promise.

Isaiah 54:16

Hebrew: “הִןֵ אָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי חָרָשׁ נֹפֵחַ בְּאֵשׁ פֶּחָם וּמוֹצִיא כְלִי לְמַעֲשֵֹהוּ וְאָנֹכִי בָּרָאתִי מַשְׁחִית לְחַבֵּל” (“Behold, I have created the smith who blows the coals in the fire, who brings forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the destroyer to destroy.”)
Targum Jonathan: “הָא אֲנָא בָּרֵית נַפָּחָא נָפַח נוּר בִּשְׁחוֹרִין וּמַפִּיק מָנָא לְצוֹרְכֵהּ וַאֲנָא בָּרֵית מְחַבְּלָא לְחַבָּלָא” (“Behold, I have created the smith who blows fire in the coals and produces a weapon for its purpose; and I have created the destroyer to destroy.”)
Discussion: Both texts acknowledge God’s sovereignty over creation, including the smith and the destroyer. The Targum maintains this focus but uses slightly different phrasing, emphasizing the purpose and function of the smith’s creations.

Isaiah 54:17

Hebrew: “כָּל-כְּלִי יוּצַר עָלַיִךְ לֹא יִצְלָח וְכָל-לָשׁוֹן תָּקוּם-אִתָּךְ לַמִּשְׁפָּט תַּרְשִׁיעִי זֹאת נַחֲלַת עַבְדֵי יְהֹוָה וְצִדְקָתָם מֵאִתִּי נְאֻם-יְהֹוָה” (“No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me, says the Lord.”)
Targum Jonathan: “כָּל זַיִן דְיִתַּקַן עֲלַךְ יְרוּשְׁלֵם לָא יַצְלַח וְכָל לִישָׁן דִיקוּם עִמָךְ לְדִינָא תְּחַיְבִינֵהּ דָא אַחְסָנַת עֲבָדַיָא דַייָ וְזַכְוָתֵיהוֹן מִן קֳדָמַי אֲמַר יְיָ” (“No weapon formed against you, O Jerusalem, shall succeed, and every tongue that rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the inheritance of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me, says the Lord.”)
Discussion: The Targum specifically mentions Jerusalem, adding a layer of specificity to the promise. The assurance of protection and vindication remains central in both texts.

The TgJ translation maintains the theme of transformation, protection, and divine assurance that we find according to the Hebrew translation.

In the NT text again, there are no direct quotes or references to these specific verses from Isaiah 54:15-17. However, the themes of transformation, protection, security, and divine assurance found in these verses can be seen in various passages. As pertaining to protection, Paul writes according to Romans 8:31: “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” This echoes the promise that adversaries will not prevail against God’s people. Isaiah writes “every weapon formed against you” (Isaiah 54:17) is echoed in John 10:28-29, which states, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” Similarly, the theme of God’s protection and guidance can be found in Matthew 6:33, which encourages followers to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Paul also writes in 2 Corinthians 10:4: “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” This aligns with the assurance that no weapon formed against God’s people will prosper. The insights provided to us from the Hebrew and Aramaic texts, coupled with the NT parallels, emphasize God’s sovereignty, protection, and the eternal heritage of His people. 

Rashi’s commentary emphasizes the contrast between those with and without God’s protection, highlighting the fate of the wicked versus the peace and security of the righteous. Let’s look at his commentary:

Rashi on Isaiah 54:15 Parts 1-2
הן גור יגור אפס מאותי. הן ירא יירא ויגור מגזרת רעו’ אותו שאין אני עמו הוא שעיר:
Behold, the one with whom I am not, shall fear Heb. גּוֹר יָגוּר. Behold, he shall fear and dread evil decrees, he with whom I am not, i.e., Esau. ([Mss. read:] the wicked Esau and his ilk.)
מי גר אתך. מי אשר נאסף עליך למלחמה, או מי גר מי שנתגרה בך, ורבותינו פירשוהו בגרים לומ’ שאין מקבלי’ גרים לימות משיחנו ואף בפשוטו של מקרא יתכן מי שנעשו גרים אתך בעניותך עליך יפול בעשירותך כמו על פני כל אחיו נפל (בראשית כ״ה:י״ח):
whoever mobilizes against you Heb. גָר. Whoever mobilizes against you for war. Alternatively, מִי גָר [means:] whoever contends with you (וְנִתְגָּרֶה). And our Rabbis explained it as referring to the proselytes (גֵּרִים), [i.e.,] to say that we will not accept proselytes in Messianic times. And even according to the simple meaning of the verse it is possible to explain: whoever became sojourners with you in your poverty, shall dwell with you in your wealth. Comp. (Gen. 25:18) “In the presence of all his brethren he dwelt (נָפָל).”

Rashi’s commentary on Isaiah 54:15 focuses on two main points:

• The identification of the enemy mentioned in the verse as Esau. Rashi interprets “he with whom I am not” as referring to Esau, the wicked, and his ilk. Note that “his ilk” refers to those who follow in his (Esau’s) path and embody his negative characteristics. This highlights the ongoing conflict between Jacob and Esau, as well as the concept of good and evil in God’s plan. Note also that Esau can denote our present day enemy, a literary tool the rabbis used often in their polemic so the enemy wouldn’t know whom they were referring to.
• The interpretation of the term “גָר” (mobilizes, contends, or sojourners) in the verse. Rashi suggests that it could refer to proselytes who converted to the faith in Messianic times. 

Rashi notes that even according to the simple meaning of the verse, it is possible to understand it as referring to those who became sojourners with you in your poverty and shall dwell with you in your wealth. These points relate to Isaiah 54:12-14, which describes God’s blessing and protection for Jerusalem and His people. Rashi’s commentary highlights the ongoing struggle between good and evil, as represented by the conflict between Jacob and Esau, or good vs evil. Additionally, the concept of sojourners or proselytes dwelling with God’s people in times of wealth and prosperity aligns with the themes of inclusion and unity found in Isaiah 54. Rashi’s commentary emphasizes the ongoing struggle between good and evil, as well as the importance of welcoming those who join God’s people. As believers in Yeshua, we are called to live lives of righteousness and to share the message of salvation with others. We are also reminded that we are part of a larger community, both now and in the Messianic age, and that we are called to live lives of faith, hope, and love, as expressed in Isaiah 54. Rashi’s commentary on Isaiah 54:15 provides valuable insights into the themes of good and evil, inclusion of gentiles, and unity in God’s plan for His people. As followers of Yeshua, we are called to embrace these themes and live lives that reflect God’s love and compassion for all people. We note again how consistent these things are in the NT text, as Paul wrote saying, Romans 8:1: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” This reflects the security and peace in Christ, mirroring the promises we read according to Isaiah.