Open the gates
This phrase suggests an invitation or command to allow entry. In biblical times, city gates were significant for protection and control of access. Spiritually, it symbolizes the opening of one's heart or life to God's presence and blessings. The imagery of gates is also used in Psalm 24:7-10, where the gates are lifted for the King of Glory to enter, indicating a welcoming of divine presence.

so a righteous nation may enter
The "righteous nation" refers to those who live according to God's laws and maintain a covenant relationship with Him. Historically, Israel was called to be a holy nation (Exodus 19:6), but this extends to all who are faithful to God. The concept of a "righteous nation" can also be seen as prophetic, pointing to the future gathering of God's people from all nations, as seen in Revelation 7:9, where a multitude from every nation stands before the throne.

one that remains faithful
Faithfulness is a key theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing loyalty and steadfastness to God. This phrase underscores the importance of perseverance in faith, as seen in Hebrews 10:23, which encourages believers to hold unswervingly to the hope they profess. The call to remain faithful is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where faithfulness is rewarded with divine favor and eternal life.

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is traditionally credited with writing the Book of Isaiah. His prophecies often focus on themes of judgment and redemption.

2. Jerusalem
Often symbolized as a city with gates, Jerusalem represents the spiritual center for the people of Israel and is frequently used as a metaphor for God's kingdom.

3. Righteous Nation
This refers to the people who are in right standing with God, characterized by their faithfulness and adherence to His commandments.

4. Gates
Symbolic of entry points, gates in biblical times were places of authority and decision-making. Spiritually, they represent access to God's presence and blessings.

5. Faithfulness
A key theme in Isaiah, faithfulness is the quality of being loyal and steadfast in one's relationship with God.The Call to Righteousness
God desires a people who are righteous, not just in outward actions but in heart and spirit. This righteousness is achieved through faith in Christ and obedience to His Word.

Faithfulness as a Lifestyle
Faithfulness is not a one-time act but a continuous lifestyle. It involves daily commitment to God's commands and trust in His promises.

Spiritual Access through Christ
The gates symbolize access to God's kingdom, which is made possible through Jesus Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and through Him, we gain entry into eternal life.

Community of Believers
The "righteous nation" implies a collective group of believers. We are called to live in community, supporting and encouraging one another in our faith journey.

Eternal Perspective
The open gates remind us of the eternal hope we have in Christ. Our present faithfulness has eternal implications, and we are to live with an eternal perspective.(2) Open ye the gates . . .--The cry comes as from the heralds of the king of the heavenly city, proclaiming that the gates are open to those who are worthy to enter into it, i.e., to the righteous people who alone may dwell in the city of God (Psalm 15:1-2; Psalm 24:3-4; Psalm 118:19-20; Revelation 21:27.)

The truth.--Literally, truths; all the many forms of truthfulness in heart and life.

Verse 2. - Open ye the gates. The command is given by God to his angels within the city, or perhaps by some angels to others, to "open the gates," and let the saints march in and take possession (comp. Psalm 118:19, 20, which seems to represent the same occasion; and Psalm 24:7-10, which tells of another occasion on which the angelic warders were bidden to throw open the gates of the celestial city. The righteous nation which keepeth the truth; literally, a righteous nation. A people, made up of all kindreds and nations and tongues, which should henceforth be "the people of God" They are "righteous," as washed clean from all taint of sin in the blood of the Lamb. They "keep the truth," or "keep faithfulness," as under all circumstances clinging loyally to God.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Open
פִּתְח֖וּ (piṯ·ḥū)
Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine plural
Strong's 6605: To open wide, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

the gates
שְׁעָרִ֑ים (šə·‘ā·rîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 8179: An opening, door, gate

that a righteous
צַדִּ֖יק (ṣad·dîq)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6662: Just, righteous

nation
גוֹי־ (ḡō·w-)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1471: A foreign nation, a Gentile, a troop of animals, a flight of locusts

may enter—
וְיָבֹ֥א (wə·yā·ḇō)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive imperfect Jussive - third person masculine singular
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go

one that remains
שֹׁמֵ֥ר (šō·mêr)
Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 8104: To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to

faithful.
אֱמֻנִֽים׃ (’ĕ·mu·nîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 529: Established, trusty, trustworthiness


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OT Prophets: Isaiah 26:2 Open the gates that the righteous nation (Isa Isi Is)