What is the meaning of Isaiah 59:19? So shall they fear the name of the LORD where the sun sets “From the west they will fear the name of the LORD”. • The promise spans the whole horizon: “where the sun sets” captures every land westward, echoing Psalm 113:3, “From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the LORD is to be praised.” • Fear here is reverent awe, a recognition of God’s holy character and authority. It is the worship that flows from realizing He alone saves and judges (Proverbs 1:7; Revelation 15:4). • The verse looks beyond Israel to a global acknowledgment of the Lord. Malachi 1:11 foretells, “My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets.” Isaiah, consistent with that vision, anticipates Gentiles turning from idols to fear the only true God (Isaiah 45:22–23). And His glory where it rises “and His glory from the rising of the sun”. • East and west together cover the earth; there is no corner untouched by His splendor. Isaiah 40:5 declares, “The glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together.” • Glory (kabod) is the radiant manifestation of God’s presence. When Habakkuk 2:14 promises, “The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD,” it parallels this line: God’s fame will shine like dawn across nations. • The phrase links with Jesus, “the radiance of God’s glory” (Hebrews 1:3). At His return every eye will behold that brightness, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy in full (Matthew 24:27). For He will come like a raging flood “For He will come like a flood”. • The imagery shifts from sunlight to a sudden, unstoppable torrent. Psalm 93:4 says, “Mightier than the breakers of the sea—the LORD on high is majestic.” • Historically, God’s interventions—Red Sea, Jordan River, world-wide Flood—show His power to overwhelm opposition. At the end of days, His coming judgment will be just as forceful (Joel 2:1–11; Revelation 19:11–16). • The flood also conveys cleansing. As the waters once washed away wickedness (Genesis 6–8), so His final visitation will sweep away rebellion and usher in righteousness (Isaiah 28:17). Driven by the breath of the LORD “driven by the breath of the LORD”. • Breath (ruach) is God’s Spirit. It propels the flood of judgment and redemption alike. Isaiah 30:28 pictures “His breath as a rushing torrent.” • The Spirit empowered creation (Genesis 1:2), parted seas (Exodus 14:21), and raised dry bones (Ezekiel 37:9–10). Here that same breath energizes His worldwide advance. • At Christ’s return, “the Lord Jesus will slay [the lawless one] with the breath of His mouth” (2 Thessalonians 2:8). The Spirit ensures the victory is not of human effort but divine initiative. summary Isaiah 59:19 promises a universal recognition of God’s holy name and blazing glory, stretching from west to east. When He moves, He will surge like a mighty flood, unstoppable and purifying, propelled by His own Spirit. The verse assures us that every nation will one day revere the Lord, and His powerful coming will sweep away evil while establishing His righteous reign forever. |
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