Isaiah 14:1

KJV

¶ For the LORD will have mercy on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own land: and the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the LORD {H3068} will have mercy {H7355} on Jacob {H3290}, and will yet choose {H977} Israel {H3478}, and set {H3240} them in their own land {H127}: and the strangers {H1616} shall be joined {H3867} with them, and they shall cleave {H5596} to the house {H1004} of Jacob {H3290}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For ADONAI will have compassion on Ya'akov - he will once again choose Isra'el and resettle them in their own land, where foreigners will join them, attaching themselves to the house of Ya'akov.

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD will have compassion on Jacob; once again He will choose Israel and settle them in their own land. The foreigner will join them and unite with the house of Jacob.

American Standard Version

For Jehovah will have compassion on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own land: and the sojourner shall join himself with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 14:1 serves as a profound declaration of God's unwavering faithfulness and a pivotal shift from the preceding prophecies of judgment against the oppressive nation of Babylon. This verse unveils the Lord's compassionate resolve to restore His chosen people, Jacob and Israel, to their promised land, while remarkably foretelling the inclusion of "strangers"—foreigners—who will be intimately joined to and cleave to the community of God's people, highlighting the expansive nature of His redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 14:1 marks a dramatic and hopeful turning point in the book of Isaiah. It immediately follows a lengthy and severe oracle of judgment against Babylon (Isaiah 13 and the initial verses of Isaiah 14), which culminates in a powerful taunt song against the king of Babylon, often interpreted as a depiction of satanic pride (see [Isaiah 14:4-21](/isaiah/14-4-21 "Isaiah 14:4-21 - Taunt Against the King of Babylon")). After detailing the utter desolation and overthrow of Israel's oppressor, this verse pivots abruptly to a message of divine mercy and restoration for God's covenant people. This juxtaposition underscores a key prophetic pattern: God's judgment on wicked nations is often inextricably linked with His plan to deliver and bless His own, ensuring that the triumph of evil is always temporary and subservient to His ultimate purposes.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Isaiah ministered during the 8th century BC, a tumultuous period marked by the rising dominance of the Assyrian Empire, which had already conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel. While Babylon was still a future threat, Isaiah's prophecies often looked beyond the immediate Assyrian crisis to the eventual Babylonian exile and subsequent return. "Jacob" and "Israel" in this context refer to the covenant people of God, primarily the Southern Kingdom of Judah, who would face exile. The concept of "their own land" (Hebrew: *ʼădâmâh*) is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic Covenant, where God promised the land of Canaan to Abraham's descendants (e.g., [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham")). The inclusion of "strangers" (Hebrew: *gêr*) was culturally significant; while the Law provided for the protection of sojourners, their full integration into the "house of Jacob" was a remarkable and forward-looking aspect of this prophecy, challenging the often exclusive nature of ancient ethnic identities.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several profound theological and narrative themes central to Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Mercy and Unchanging Election**, emphasizing God's enduring love and commitment to His covenant people despite their past unfaithfulness and impending exile. The Lord's choice of Israel is steadfast, rooted in His character rather than their performance (as seen in [Jeremiah 31:3](/jeremiah/31-3 "Jeremiah 31:3 - God's Everlasting Love")). Secondly, it underscores the theme of **Restoration and Return to the Land**, a foundational promise throughout the Old Testament that speaks to both the physical return from Babylonian captivity and a future, ultimate restoration. Thirdly, and perhaps most remarkably, it introduces the theme of the **Inclusion of Strangers/Gentiles**. The prophecy that "the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob" foreshadows the expansive nature of God's redemptive plan, which extends beyond ethnic Israel to encompass those from other nations, aligning with other prophecies of Gentile inclusion into God's kingdom (e.g., [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - Nations Flowing to Zion")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **mercy (Hebrew, _râcham'_):** This primitive root (H7355) signifies a deep, visceral compassion, often described as a mother's tender affection for her child. It implies a profound, empathetic love that moves one to action, particularly in alleviating suffering or showing favor. Here, it underscores God's inherent character as one who is moved by compassion toward His chosen people, Jacob.
* **strangers (Hebrew, _gêr'_):** This term (H1616) refers to a guest, a foreigner, or an alien—someone who resides in a land not his own, without full native rights. In the Old Testament, the *gêr* was often vulnerable and dependent. Their inclusion in this prophecy is highly significant, indicating that God's plan extends beyond the ethnic boundaries of Israel to embrace those from other nations.
* **joined (Hebrew, _lâvâh'_):** This primitive root (H3867) literally means "to twine" or "to unite." It implies a deep, permanent attachment, a clinging together, or a close association. When applied to the strangers, it suggests not merely a temporary alliance but a profound integration and identification with the community of Jacob, becoming an integral part of their spiritual and communal life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the LORD will have mercy on Jacob":** This opening clause establishes God's sovereign initiative and compassionate character as the driving force behind the forthcoming restoration. His action is rooted in His unmerited favor and deep affection for His covenant people, Jacob.
* **"and will yet choose Israel":** This phrase reaffirms God's enduring election of Israel. Despite their historical failings, idolatry, and subsequent exile, God's choice remains steadfast. It signifies a divine recommitment to His covenant relationship with them, highlighting His faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful.
* **"and set them in their own land":** This clause speaks to the physical restoration of the exiles. It is a direct fulfillment of the land promise given to Abraham and a reversal of the judgment of exile. This return to the promised inheritance signifies security, blessing, and the re-establishment of their national identity under God's favor.
* **"and the strangers shall be joined with them":** Here, the prophecy expands beyond ethnic Israel. "Strangers" (Gentiles) will not merely observe but actively participate in Israel's restoration. The verb "joined" implies a deep, intentional union, suggesting that these foreigners will become integral members of the restored community, drawn by God's manifest blessing.
* **"and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob":** This final clause reinforces the profound integration of the "strangers." The word "cleave" (Hebrew: *çâphach*) emphasizes a deep, permanent attachment, a spiritual and communal adherence to the people and traditions of Jacob. It signifies a full embrace of the God of Israel and His ways, becoming part of the "household" of God's chosen people.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 14:1 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Parallelism** is evident in the synonymous use of "Jacob" and "Israel," which refers to the same covenant people, emphasizing God's singular focus on His chosen nation. The phrases "will have mercy" and "will yet choose" also form a type of synonymous parallelism, reinforcing the divine initiative of grace and election. Furthermore, the actions of "strangers" being "joined with them" and "cleave to the house of Jacob" demonstrate a progressive or complementary parallelism, illustrating the increasing depth of their integration. The verse functions as a powerful **Contrast**, standing in stark opposition to the preceding oracle of judgment against Babylon, thereby highlighting God's justice in overthrowing oppressors and His mercy in restoring His people. As a **Prophecy**, the entire verse is a forward-looking declaration, foreshadowing future historical events (the return from exile) and theological realities (the inclusion of Gentiles). Finally, **Metonymy** is present in "the house of Jacob," which represents not merely a physical dwelling but the entire community, lineage, and spiritual heritage of Jacob.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 14:1 is a theological cornerstone, revealing the multifaceted nature of God's character and His overarching redemptive plan. It profoundly illustrates God's unwavering covenant faithfulness, demonstrating that His promises and election of Israel are irrevocable, even in the face of their disobedience and the severe judgment of exile. This divine commitment is rooted in His boundless mercy, which triumphs over judgment. Moreover, the remarkable inclusion of "strangers" within the "house of Jacob" expands the scope of God's redemptive work, foreshadowing a universal dimension to His kingdom. This prophetic vision anticipates a time when God's blessing on Israel would become a light to the nations, drawing all peoples to Himself and demonstrating that salvation is ultimately for all humanity, not exclusively for one ethnic group. It points towards a future where God's people would be defined not solely by lineage but by their allegiance to Him, regardless of their origin.

* [Jeremiah 31:3](/jeremiah/31-3 "God's Everlasting Love")
* [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "God's Promise of Land to Abraham")
* [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20-23 "Many Peoples Seek the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 14:1 offers profound encouragement and challenge for believers today. In a world often marked by broken promises, shifting allegiances, and a sense of displacement, this verse reminds us of God's steadfast faithfulness to His covenant people, both ancient Israel and the church. Just as God reversed the fortunes of Israel after their captivity, He remains faithful to His promises even through our periods of hardship, spiritual wandering, or personal "exile." This provides immense hope that God can bring restoration and renewal to seemingly impossible situations, whether individually or collectively. Furthermore, the inclusion of "strangers" serves as a powerful reminder of the expansive and inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan. It calls us to reflect on our own attitudes towards those who are "other"—whether by ethnicity, background, or social status—and to actively embody the welcoming, unifying spirit of the Gospel. The church, as the spiritual "house of Jacob," is called to be a place where all who believe in Christ are not merely tolerated but deeply joined and cleave to one another, forming a diverse yet unified body.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's unwavering mercy and choice of Israel in this verse encourage you in your own struggles with faithfulness or feelings of inadequacy?**
* **In what practical ways can you, as a follower of Christ, contribute to the "strangers" being "joined" and "cleaving" to the "house of Jacob" (the church) in your community today?**
* **How does this prophecy of restoration, both to the land and to God's favor, deepen your trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and His plan for your life and the world?**

### FAQ
**Who are "Jacob" and "Israel" in this context, and why are both names used?**

Answer: In Isaiah 14:1, "Jacob" and "Israel" are used synonymously to refer to the covenant people of God, the descendants of the patriarch Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel (see [Genesis 32:28](/genesis/32-28 "Jacob Becomes Israel")). While historically the nation had split into the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and Southern Kingdom (Judah, often called Jacob), in prophetic literature like Isaiah, these terms often encompass the entire chosen people, emphasizing their shared heritage and God's unified covenant with them. The use of both names serves to reinforce the divine focus on this particular people group.

**What does "set them in their own land" refer to, and how was it fulfilled?**

Answer: This phrase primarily refers to the historical return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity to the land of Israel, which occurred beginning in the late 6th century BC (as detailed in books like Ezra and Nehemiah). This return was a significant fulfillment of God's promises made to Abraham regarding the land (e.g., [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "God's Covenant with Abraham")) and a reversal of the judgment of exile. The phrase also carries broader eschatological implications, pointing to a future, ultimate restoration of God's people and the establishment of His kingdom on earth.

**How do "strangers" join and cleave to the "house of Jacob"?**

Answer: In the Old Testament, "strangers" (Hebrew: *gêr*) were non-Israelites who resided among the Israelites and, through conversion and adherence to the Mosaic Law, could become part of the community (e.g., [Ruth 1:16](/ruth/1-16 "Ruth's Vow to Naomi")). This prophecy in Isaiah 14:1 foreshadows a more expansive inclusion. Ultimately, this finds its fullest fulfillment in the New Covenant through Jesus Christ. In the church, all believers—both Jew and Gentile—are united in Christ, becoming "fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God" ([Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). They "cleave" to the spiritual "house of Jacob" by faith in Jesus, becoming part of God's family.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 14:1, while rooted in the historical context of Israel's restoration from Babylonian exile, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Lord's promise to "have mercy on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel" is perfectly embodied in Christ, who is the true Israel, the faithful Son who perfectly fulfills God's covenant purposes. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus extends God's mercy and re-establishes God's chosen people, not merely on the basis of ethnic lineage but through faith in Him. The remarkable prophecy that "the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob" is gloriously realized in the New Covenant. Gentiles, once alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, are now, in Christ, brought near by His blood (see [Ephesians 2:12-13](/ephesians/2-12-13 "Gentiles Brought Near by Christ")). Through faith in Jesus, they are no longer "strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone" ([Ephesians 2:19-20](/ephesians/2-19-20 "Fellow Citizens and Household of God")). The "house of Jacob" expands to become the global church, a spiritual Israel composed of all who believe, Jew and Gentile, united in Christ, who is the ultimate "land" and dwelling place of God's presence (see [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). This vision of radical inclusion, initiated by God's mercy, culminates in the unified body of Christ, where all barriers are broken down, and all are one in Him (see [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "No Jew or Gentile in Christ")).

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.

Cross-References

Psalms 102:13

Thou shalt arise, [and] have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come.

Zechariah 1:17

Cry yet, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; My cities through prosperity shall yet be spread abroad; and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem.

Zechariah 8:22

Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.

Zechariah 8:23

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days [it shall come to pass], that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.

Isaiah 54:7

For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.

Isaiah 54:8

In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.

Ephesians 2:12

That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: