12:2 12:2

Isaiah 12:3

12:4 12:4

Bible Versions

Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
Therefore with joy {H8342} shall ye draw {H7579} water {H4325} out of the wells {H4599} of salvation {H3444}.
Then you will joyfully draw water from the springs of salvation.
With joy you will draw water from the springs of salvation,
Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.

Isaiah 12:3 is a powerful and poetic verse, a cornerstone of the celebratory hymn found in Isaiah chapter 12. It captures the profound joy and abundant provision that comes from God's salvation.

Context

This verse is part of a short but significant hymn of praise that concludes a section of prophecies often referred to as "The Book of Immanuel" (Isaiah 7-12). Following dire warnings and prophecies of judgment against Judah and surrounding nations, chapters 9-11 introduce messianic prophecies, painting a picture of future restoration and the reign of a righteous King. Isaiah 12:1-2 speaks of God's anger being turned away and comfort being given, leading to trust in the Lord as strength and song, indeed, as salvation itself. Verse 3, therefore, describes the joyful outpouring resulting from this divine deliverance, looking forward to a time of complete peace and spiritual fulfillment under God's rule.

Key Themes

  • Joy in Salvation: The verse emphasizes the overflowing gladness that accompanies God's deliverance. This isn't a forced or superficial joy, but a deep, heartfelt rejoicing born from experiencing God's saving power.
  • Abundance of God's Provision: The imagery of "wells" (Hebrew: ma'ayan, often meaning a spring or fountain) suggests an inexhaustible source. God's salvation is not a trickle but a wellspring, providing abundant spiritual nourishment and satisfaction.
  • Spiritual Refreshment: Drawing "water" is a potent metaphor for receiving spiritual life, cleansing, and refreshment. Just as physical water sustains life, God's salvation provides everything necessary for spiritual vitality. This links to the concept of living water found elsewhere in scripture.
  • Future Hope and Restoration: While applicable to present blessings, the prophetic context of Isaiah often points to a future, ultimate realization of God's kingdom and the complete deliverance of His people, a time of profound spiritual revival and peace.

Linguistic Insights

  • The word for "salvation" in Hebrew is yeshu'ah (יְשׁוּעָה), which is closely related to the name Jesus (Yeshua), meaning "the Lord saves." This connection highlights that the ultimate source of this "well of salvation" is God Himself, supremely manifested in Christ.
  • "Wells" (ma'ayan) often refer to natural springs, which are perpetually flowing and abundant, reinforcing the idea of God's endless supply of grace and saving power.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Isaiah 12:3 invites believers to actively and joyfully partake in the spiritual blessings offered by God's salvation. It reminds us that our salvation is not merely an intellectual assent but a vibrant, life-giving experience that should fill us with joy. We "draw water" by engaging with God through prayer, studying His Word, worship, and living in obedience. This verse encourages us to continually return to the source of our spiritual life, finding satisfaction and refreshment in God's presence. Just as the joy of the Lord is our strength, drawing from the wells of salvation empowers us for daily living and strengthens our hope for the future kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Revelation 22:1

    ¶ And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.

  • Revelation 22:17

    And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

  • Jeremiah 2:13

    For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, [and] hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.

  • Revelation 7:17

    For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

  • Isaiah 55:1

    ¶ Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

  • Isaiah 55:3

    Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [even] the sure mercies of David.

  • John 4:10

    Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
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