What is the meaning of Isaiah 60:7? All the flocks of Kedar will be gathered to you • Kedar, a son of Ishmael (Genesis 25:13), came to represent the nomadic Arab tribes to Israel’s southeast. Here the Lord pictures these very real peoples turning toward Zion, not in hostility but in willing procession. • Isaiah has already hinted at this reversal: “Let the wilderness and its cities raise their voices, the villages where Kedar dwells” (Isaiah 42:11). What once sounded remote and resistant now joins the worshiping throng. • Jesus spoke of “other sheep… not of this fold” who would hear His voice (John 10:16). The prophetic scene anticipates that global ingathering—Jews and Gentiles unified under the Messiah, literally traveling to Jerusalem when He reigns (Zechariah 14:16–17). the rams of Nebaioth will serve you • Nebaioth, Ishmael’s firstborn (Genesis 25:13; 1 Chronicles 1:29), occupied territory just north of Kedar. Rams from this region symbolize substantial wealth and status; they are prime animals for sacrifice (Leviticus 8:18). • “Serve you” echoes Psalm 72:10–11, where kings from distant lands bring tribute to the Son of David. The humbled bringer and the honored recipient are both real: nations physically serve Jerusalem because the Lord is there. • The picture is not forced subjugation but joyful allegiance, fulfilling the promise to Abraham that “all nations” would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 22:18). and go up on My altar with acceptance • Sacrifices in Isaiah are often rejected for hypocrisy (Isaiah 1:11–15). Here, however, the offerings are “accepted”—the Lord affirms their sincerity and compliance with His standards (compare Isaiah 56:7). • The journey “up” points to the restored Temple Mount. Ezekiel 40–48 details that Millennial sanctuary where Gentile offerings will be welcomed. • This acceptance springs from the atoning work of the Messiah, foreshadowed by every ram ever laid on an altar (John 1:29). Because He has provided perfect atonement, even former outsiders find their gifts pleasing to God. I will adorn My glorious house • God Himself beautifies the Temple, echoing Haggai 2:7: “The treasure of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory.” The radiant city of Revelation 21:24–26 picks up the same thought—nations bring their splendor to the Lamb’s dwelling. • The initiative is divine: “I will adorn.” Humanity contributes resources, but the glory belongs to the Lord alone (Psalm 115:1). • While the verse points forward to a literal house in Jerusalem, believers experience a present foretaste. Paul calls the church “God’s temple” (1 Corinthians 3:16), already being adorned as living stones (1 Peter 2:5) until Christ’s return completes the work. summary Isaiah 60:7 presents a vivid, literal snapshot of Arab tribes once far from God now streaming to Jerusalem, bringing their flocks as willing tribute. Their sacrifices are welcomed because the Messiah has opened wide the door of grace. In turn, God decorates His Temple with their offerings, showcasing a future where every nation honors Him in unity and joy. |
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