This is what the LORD says:
This phrase introduces a direct message from God, emphasizing the authority and divine origin of the statement. It is a common prophetic formula used throughout the Old Testament to signify that the following words are not merely human opinion but a divine command or revelation. This underscores the importance and urgency of the message.

Maintain justice and do what is right:
The call to maintain justice and righteousness is a recurring theme in the prophetic books, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people. In the historical context, Israel was often admonished for failing to uphold justice, especially towards the marginalized. This command aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes justice as a reflection of God's kingdom (Micah 6:8, Amos 5:24). It also foreshadows the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love and justice in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).

For My salvation is coming soon:
This phrase points to an imminent divine intervention. In the context of Isaiah, it can be seen as a promise of deliverance from exile and restoration for Israel. Prophetically, it also looks forward to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who brings ultimate salvation. The New Testament echoes this anticipation of salvation through Christ's first coming and the future hope of His return (Luke 2:30-32, Revelation 22:12).

And My righteousness will be revealed:
The revelation of God's righteousness is both a present and future reality. In the immediate context, it suggests that God's justice will be visibly enacted in the world, vindicating His people and punishing wickedness. This is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's righteousness (Romans 3:21-22). The ultimate revelation of God's righteousness will occur at the end of the age, when Christ returns to judge the world and establish His eternal kingdom (2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 19:11).

Blessed is the man who does this
The concept of blessing in the Bible often refers to divine favor and well-being. In the context of Isaiah, this blessing is linked to obedience to God's commands. The "man who does this" refers to those who adhere to the principles outlined in the preceding verses, emphasizing justice and righteousness. This echoes the covenantal promises found in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings are promised for obedience. The use of "man" here is inclusive, referring to all people who follow God's ways.

and the son of man who holds it fast
The phrase "son of man" is a Hebrew idiom for humanity, emphasizing the universality of the message. "Holds it fast" suggests perseverance and commitment to God's commands. This steadfastness is a recurring theme in Scripture, seen in passages like Psalm 1:1-3, where the righteous are described as trees planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in season. The call to hold fast is a call to remain faithful amidst challenges.

who keeps the Sabbath without profaning it
The Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, as seen in Exodus 31:13. Keeping the Sabbath holy is a commandment that signifies trust in God's provision and a commitment to rest and worship. Profaning the Sabbath was a serious offense, as it indicated a disregard for God's law and order. In the New Testament, Jesus reinterprets the Sabbath, emphasizing its purpose for human benefit (Mark 2:27). The Sabbath also points to the ultimate rest found in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10).

and keeps his hand from doing any evil.
This phrase underscores the importance of moral integrity and ethical behavior. The hand symbolizes action, and keeping it from evil implies a conscious effort to avoid sin. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching on holiness and righteousness, as seen in passages like Psalm 24:3-4, which describes those who may stand in God's holy place as having clean hands and a pure heart. The call to avoid evil is a call to live in a way that reflects God's character and commands.

Let no foreigner who has joined himself to the LORD say,
This phrase addresses the inclusion of foreigners in the worship and community of Israel. In the Old Testament, foreigners were often seen as outsiders, but this passage emphasizes that those who commit themselves to the LORD are not to be excluded. This reflects the universal scope of God's salvation plan, as seen in Genesis 12:3, where God promises Abraham that all nations will be blessed through him. The idea of foreigners joining themselves to the LORD foreshadows the New Testament inclusion of Gentiles into the faith, as seen in Acts 10 with the conversion of Cornelius.

“The LORD will utterly exclude me from His people.”
Historically, the Israelites were a distinct people, set apart by God through the covenant with Abraham and the Law given to Moses. However, this phrase reassures that those who genuinely seek the LORD, regardless of their ethnic background, will not be excluded. This is consistent with the message of Isaiah 56, which emphasizes justice and righteousness for all who follow God. It aligns with the New Testament teaching in Ephesians 2:19, where Paul states that Gentiles are no longer strangers and aliens but fellow citizens with the saints.

And let the eunuch not say,
Eunuchs were often marginalized in ancient societies, including Israel, due to their inability to procreate and their perceived incompleteness. Deuteronomy 23:1 explicitly states that eunuchs were not to enter the assembly of the LORD, highlighting their exclusion. However, this passage in Isaiah marks a significant shift, indicating that physical limitations or societal status do not determine one's standing before God. This inclusion is a precursor to the New Testament message of spiritual rebirth and equality in Christ, as seen in Galatians 3:28.

“I am but a dry tree.”
The metaphor of a "dry tree" symbolizes barrenness and lack of legacy, as trees are often associated with life and prosperity in biblical imagery. For a eunuch, this would have been a poignant expression of their perceived lack of worth and future. However, Isaiah 56 promises that those who keep God's covenant will be given a name better than sons and daughters, suggesting a spiritual legacy that transcends physical limitations. This echoes the promise of eternal life and spiritual fruitfulness found in John 15:5, where Jesus speaks of abiding in Him to bear much fruit.

For this is what the LORD says:
This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and importance of the message. In the prophetic literature, such declarations often precede significant revelations or promises from God. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) underscores the covenantal relationship between God and His people, reminding readers of His faithfulness and sovereignty.

To the eunuchs who keep My Sabbaths:
Eunuchs, often excluded from full participation in Israelite religious life due to their physical condition (Deuteronomy 23:1), are here specifically addressed, indicating a radical inclusion. Keeping the Sabbath is a sign of covenant faithfulness (Exodus 31:13), and this phrase highlights that obedience to God's commandments transcends physical or social status. The Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, symbolizes trust in God's provision and a commitment to His order.

who choose what pleases Me:
This phrase emphasizes the importance of intentionality in one's relationship with God. Choosing what pleases God involves aligning one's desires and actions with His will, as revealed in Scripture. This echoes the call to love God with all one's heart, soul, and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5), and reflects the biblical theme of free will in choosing to follow God's ways.

and hold fast to My covenant—
Holding fast to the covenant implies a steadfast commitment to the relationship established by God with His people. This covenantal language recalls the promises made to Abraham, Moses, and David, and points to the faithfulness required of God's people. It also foreshadows the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ, where faithfulness is demonstrated through belief in Him and adherence to His teachings (Hebrews 8:6-13).

I will give them
This phrase indicates a divine promise and initiative. The speaker is God, who is making a commitment to bestow something significant upon a particular group. In the context of Isaiah 56, this promise is directed towards foreigners and eunuchs who join themselves to the Lord, emphasizing God's inclusive nature and His willingness to extend blessings beyond the traditional boundaries of Israel.

in My house and within My walls
The "house" refers to the temple, the central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. "Within My walls" suggests a place of security and belonging. This promise indicates that those who were once considered outsiders will be granted a place of honor and acceptance within the community of God's people, reflecting the temple's role as a house of prayer for all nations (Isaiah 56:7).

a memorial and a name
A "memorial" signifies remembrance and honor, while a "name" represents identity and legacy. In ancient cultures, having a name that is remembered was a significant aspect of one's legacy. This promise assures that those who might have been forgotten or marginalized will be given a lasting place of honor and recognition by God Himself.

better than that of sons and daughters
This phrase highlights the superiority of the promised blessing. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, having sons and daughters was crucial for continuing one's family line and legacy. However, God promises something even greater than familial ties, suggesting a spiritual legacy and identity that surpasses earthly relationships.

I will give them an everlasting name
The promise of an "everlasting name" indicates a perpetual and unbreakable covenant. This is a profound assurance of eternal significance and identity, contrasting with the temporal nature of human achievements and relationships. It echoes the biblical theme of God's eternal covenant with His people, as seen in passages like Genesis 17:7.

that will not be cut off
This final phrase underscores the permanence and security of God's promise. In a world where names and legacies can be easily forgotten or erased, God assures that His promise will endure. This reflects the biblical theme of God's faithfulness and the eternal nature of His covenant, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 31:33-34, where God promises an everlasting covenant with His people.

And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD
This phrase highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, extending beyond Israel to include Gentiles. In the Old Testament, foreigners were often seen as outsiders, but here they are invited to join the community of believers. This foreshadows the New Testament message of salvation for all nations (Matthew 28:19). The Hebrew term for "join" implies a strong commitment, akin to a covenant relationship, similar to Ruth's declaration to Naomi (Ruth 1:16).

to minister to Him
The role of ministering to God was traditionally reserved for the Levites, but this passage opens it to foreigners, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive worship. This anticipates the New Testament priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9). Ministering involves acts of worship, service, and devotion, reflecting a heart committed to God.

to love the name of the LORD
Loving God's name signifies reverence and devotion. In Hebrew culture, a name represents one's character and essence. Loving God's name means embracing His nature and commandments. This aligns with the greatest commandment to love God with all one's heart, soul, and mind (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37).

and to be His servants
Being a servant of God implies obedience and dedication. This echoes the call to servanthood seen throughout Scripture, where true greatness is found in serving others (Mark 10:43-45). It also reflects the life of Jesus, the ultimate servant (Philippians 2:7).

all who keep the Sabbath without profaning it
The Sabbath was a sign of the covenant between God and Israel (Exodus 31:13). Keeping it holy was a demonstration of faithfulness and trust in God's provision. For foreigners to observe the Sabbath signifies their full integration into the covenant community. This also points to the rest found in Christ, who is the Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8).

and who hold fast to My covenant
Holding fast to the covenant involves faithfulness and adherence to God's laws. This phrase emphasizes the importance of commitment and loyalty to God's promises. It connects to the New Covenant established through Jesus' sacrifice, which is open to all who believe (Hebrews 8:6-13). The call to hold fast is a recurring theme, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith (Hebrews 10:23).

I will bring them to My holy mountain
This phrase refers to God's promise to gather His people to a place of divine presence and worship. The "holy mountain" is often identified with Mount Zion in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and the location of the Temple. In biblical context, mountains are frequently associated with divine encounters and revelations (e.g., Mount Sinai). This promise extends beyond Israel to include foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, indicating a future gathering of all believers. This is prophetic of the eschatological hope where all nations will worship God together, as seen in Revelation 21:24.

and make them joyful in My house of prayer.
The "house of prayer" refers to the Temple, which was intended to be a place of communion with God. Joy in worship is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the delight and fulfillment found in God's presence (Psalm 16:11). This joy is not limited to the Israelites but is available to all who seek God sincerely. The New Testament echoes this inclusivity, as Jesus cleanses the Temple and reaffirms its purpose as a house of prayer for all nations (Mark 11:17). This joy is a foretaste of the eternal joy believers will experience in God's presence.

Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on My altar,
In the Old Testament, burnt offerings and sacrifices were central to worship and atonement. Acceptance of these offerings signifies God's approval and the restoration of relationship between God and worshipers. This phrase underscores the inclusivity of God's covenant, extending acceptance to all who come to Him in faith. The altar symbolizes the place of atonement and reconciliation, prefiguring Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross, which makes all believers acceptable to God (Hebrews 10:10).

for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations.”
This declaration emphasizes the universal scope of God's salvation plan. The Temple, as God's dwelling place, was meant to be accessible to all people, not just Israel. This vision is fulfilled in the New Testament, where the Church becomes the spiritual house of God, open to all who believe in Christ (Ephesians 2:19-22). The phrase "for all the nations" highlights the prophetic vision of a unified worship community, as seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) and the vision of every nation, tribe, and tongue worshiping before God's throne (Revelation 7:9).

Thus declares the Lord GOD
This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God. The use of "Lord GOD" (Yahweh Adonai) underscores His supreme power and covenantal relationship with Israel. This declaration is a divine promise, highlighting God's direct communication and intention.

who gathers the dispersed of Israel
This refers to God's promise to regather the Israelites who have been scattered due to exile and disobedience. Historically, the Israelites experienced dispersion during the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. The gathering signifies restoration and fulfillment of God's covenant promises, as seen in Deuteronomy 30:3-5 and Ezekiel 11:17. It also foreshadows the ultimate gathering in the eschatological future.

I will gather to them still others
This phrase indicates an expansion of God's promise beyond the ethnic boundaries of Israel. It suggests the inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant community, a theme that is further developed in the New Testament, particularly in Ephesians 2:11-22. This gathering of "others" aligns with the prophetic vision of a universal worship community, as seen in Isaiah 2:2-4.

besides those already gathered
This highlights the inclusivity of God's plan, extending His grace and salvation beyond the initial remnant of Israel. It points to the future ingathering of all nations, as prophesied in Isaiah 49:6 and fulfilled in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). This phrase underscores the theme of God's redemptive plan for all humanity, culminating in the unity of believers in Christ.

Come, all you beasts of the field;
This phrase is a call to the wild animals, symbolizing foreign nations or enemies. In the context of Isaiah, it often represents God's judgment using foreign powers as instruments. The "beasts of the field" can be seen as a metaphor for the surrounding nations that God allows to come against Israel due to their disobedience. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic literature where nations are depicted as beasts (e.g., Daniel 7). The call to the beasts signifies an impending judgment or invasion, highlighting the vulnerability of those who have turned away from God.

eat greedily,
The invitation to "eat greedily" suggests a scene of destruction and consumption. It implies that the judgment will be thorough and devastating. This reflects the consequences of Israel's leaders failing to protect and guide the people according to God's commandments. The imagery of animals devouring without restraint underscores the severity of the judgment and the complete desolation that will follow. It serves as a warning of the consequences of spiritual neglect and moral decay.

all you beasts of the forest.
The "beasts of the forest" further emphasize the idea of wild, untamed forces being unleashed. Forests in biblical times were often seen as places of danger and mystery, inhabited by wild animals. This phrase reinforces the idea of chaos and destruction coming from unexpected or uncontrolled sources. It also suggests that the judgment is not limited to one area but is widespread, affecting all who have strayed from God's path. The use of "forest" may also imply a deeper, more hidden threat, contrasting with the open "field," indicating that both visible and hidden sins will be judged.

Israel’s watchmen are blind
In the context of ancient Israel, watchmen were responsible for alerting the city of impending danger. Spiritually, this term refers to leaders and prophets who were supposed to guide and protect the people. The blindness of these watchmen indicates a failure to perceive spiritual truths and moral decay. This blindness is a metaphor for their inability to see the consequences of their actions or the needs of the people. In the New Testament, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their spiritual blindness (Matthew 15:14), drawing a parallel to the leaders in Isaiah's time.

they are all oblivious
The term "oblivious" suggests a lack of awareness or concern for their duties. This reflects a deeper spiritual apathy and negligence among the leaders. Historically, this period was marked by idolatry and social injustice, which the leaders failed to address. The prophets, like Jeremiah and Ezekiel, often condemned such negligence, emphasizing the need for repentance and return to God's ways.

they are all mute dogs, they cannot bark
Dogs in ancient Near Eastern cultures were often seen as guardians. A mute dog that cannot bark is useless as a protector. This imagery highlights the leaders' inability to warn the people of spiritual danger. In Philippians 3:2, Paul warns against "dogs," referring to false teachers, which echoes the idea of leaders failing in their protective roles. The inability to speak truth and warn of sin is a critical failure in spiritual leadership.

they are dreamers lying around
The term "dreamers" suggests a state of complacency and indulgence in fantasies rather than facing reality. This can be seen as a critique of leaders who are more concerned with their own comfort and visions than with the pressing needs of their people. In Jude 1:8, false teachers are described as dreamers who defile the flesh, indicating a similar disconnect from God's truth.

loving to slumber
"Loving to slumber" implies a preference for inactivity and neglect of duty. This phrase underscores the leaders' laziness and lack of vigilance. In Proverbs 6:9-11, slumber is associated with poverty and ruin, symbolizing the spiritual and moral decay that results from neglect. The call to spiritual wakefulness is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are urged to be alert and watchful (1 Thessalonians 5:6).

Like ravenous dogs, they are never satisfied.
This phrase paints a vivid picture of insatiable greed and selfishness. In biblical times, dogs were often seen as unclean animals, scavengers that roamed the streets. The imagery of "ravenous dogs" suggests leaders who are driven by their own appetites, never content with what they have. This reflects a broader biblical theme of warning against greed and self-indulgence, as seen in Proverbs 30:15-16, which speaks of things that are never satisfied. The metaphor underscores the moral and spiritual decay of those who should be guiding the people.

They are shepherds with no discernment;
Shepherds in the Bible are often symbolic of leaders or those in positions of spiritual authority, as seen in Psalm 23 and John 10:11, where Jesus is described as the Good Shepherd. The lack of discernment indicates a failure to understand or care for the needs of the people they are supposed to lead. This failure is a stark contrast to the ideal shepherd who knows and tends to his flock. The absence of discernment suggests a spiritual blindness and a neglect of duty, which is condemned throughout scripture, such as in Ezekiel 34:2-10, where God rebukes the shepherds of Israel for their negligence.

they all turn to their own way,
This phrase highlights the self-centeredness and rebellion against God's path. Turning to one's own way is a recurring theme in the Bible, often associated with sin and disobedience, as seen in Isaiah 53:6, which states, "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way." This turning away from God's guidance leads to moral and spiritual chaos, emphasizing the need for repentance and alignment with God's will.

each one seeking his own gain:
The pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others is a direct violation of the biblical principle of selflessness and service. This behavior is condemned in various scriptures, such as Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages believers to consider others above themselves. The leaders' focus on personal profit reflects a corruption of their role and a betrayal of their responsibility to serve the community. This self-serving attitude is antithetical to the example set by Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).

Come, let me get the wine
This phrase reflects an invitation to indulge in wine, symbolizing a call to complacency and indulgence. In biblical times, wine was a common beverage, often associated with celebration and joy (Psalm 104:15). However, excessive consumption was warned against (Proverbs 20:1). The context here suggests a disregard for spiritual vigilance, echoing the behavior of leaders who neglect their duties (Isaiah 56:10-11).

Let us imbibe the strong drink
Strong drink refers to fermented beverages with higher alcohol content. The call to consume strong drink indicates a deeper level of indulgence and moral laxity. In the cultural context, strong drink was often used in feasts and could lead to debauchery (Proverbs 23:29-35). This phrase highlights a pursuit of pleasure over responsibility, contrasting with the biblical call to sobriety and self-control (1 Peter 5:8).

And tomorrow will be like today
This expression of complacency suggests a belief in the unchanging nature of life, ignoring the potential for divine intervention or judgment. It reflects a mindset of false security, similar to the attitude condemned in the days of Noah (Matthew 24:37-39). The assumption that tomorrow will mirror today without consequence is a denial of the prophetic warnings throughout Scripture (James 4:13-14).

Only far better!
The expectation of an even better tomorrow without repentance or change is a delusion. This mirrors the false prophets' assurances of peace when there is no peace (Jeremiah 6:14). It underscores a misplaced hope in worldly pleasures rather than in God’s promises. Theologically, it contrasts with the Christian hope of a future perfected in Christ (Revelation 21:4), which requires faithfulness and readiness for His return (Matthew 25:1-13).