Isaiah 16:5

KJV

And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in mercy {H2617} shall the throne {H3678} be established {H3559}: and he shall sit {H3427} upon it in truth {H571} in the tabernacle {H168} of David {H1732}, judging {H8199}, and seeking {H1875} judgment {H4941}, and hasting {H4106} righteousness {H6664}.

Complete Jewish Bible

a throne will be set up by grace, and on it, in the tent of David, will sit an honest judge, seeking justice and pursuing righteousness.

Berean Standard Bible

in loving devotion a throne will be established in the tent of David. A judge seeking justice and hastening righteousness will sit on it in faithfulness.

American Standard Version

And a throne shall be established in lovingkindness; and one shall sit thereon in truth, in the tent of David, judging, and seeking justice, and swift to do righteousness.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 16:5 presents a profound prophetic pivot, shifting from the lamentable judgment upon Moab to a glorious vision of an enduring, divinely established throne. This future reign, rooted in God's unwavering mercy and steadfast truth, will be characterized by a righteous ruler from the lineage of David, who actively and zealously judges, seeks justice, and swiftly brings forth righteousness. It stands as a powerful beacon of hope, contrasting the transience of earthly powers with the stability and perfect equity of God's promised kingdom, ultimately anticipating a Messianic reign of unparalleled justice and compassion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah chapters 15 and 16 form a unified prophetic oracle, often termed the "Burden of Moab," detailing the impending judgment and desolation of the Moabite nation. The preceding verses ([Isaiah 15:1-16:4](/isaiah/15-1-16-4 "Isaiah 15-16:4 - The Burden of Moab")) vividly depict Moab's profound distress, its cities laid waste, its people in flight, and their desperate pleas for refuge, even appealing to Jerusalem for shelter. Amidst this scene of national collapse and deep lament, [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") introduces a dramatic and theologically significant shift. It abruptly transitions from the immediate, temporal judgment of an earthly kingdom to the eternal, divine establishment of a righteous reign. This verse serves as a crucial turning point, offering a stark theological contrast and a glimmer of Messianic hope within the broader narrative of judgment, redirecting the reader's gaze from earthly despair to divine promise.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies against Moab, alongside those against other surrounding nations in Isaiah (e.g., [Isaiah 13](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Burden Against Babylon"), [Isaiah 17](/isaiah/17 "Isaiah 17 - Burden Against Damascus")), were delivered during a tumultuous period in the ancient Near East, dominated by the rising power of the Assyrian Empire. Moab, situated east of the Dead Sea, frequently interacted with and sometimes opposed Israel, though they also shared cultural and linguistic ties. The "burden" or oracle against Moab likely foreshadows a historical or impending military campaign, possibly by Assyria, that would devastate the region. Culturally, the "throne" (Hebrew: _kiççêʼ_) was the quintessential symbol of royal power, authority, and the seat of justice. The phrase "tabernacle of David" (Hebrew: _ʼôhel_ of _Dâvid_) immediately evoked the foundational covenant God made with King David, promising an eternal dynasty and an enduring kingdom ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). This cultural understanding would have instantly signaled a reference to the enduring, divinely sanctioned rule of a Davidic king, contrasting sharply with the transient and vulnerable nature of Moab's power.
* **Key Themes:** [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") masterfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to Isaiah's prophecy and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, asserting that even amidst earthly chaos and judgment, God remains ultimately in control, establishing a kingdom founded on His own righteous character. Secondly, the verse highlights **Mercy and Truth as Foundations of Righteous Rule**, presenting these divine attributes (Hebrew: _chêçêd_ and _ʼemeth_) not merely as abstract qualities but as the very pillars upon which a just administration is built. This echoes profound theological truths found elsewhere in scripture, such as the declaration in [Psalm 89:14](/psalms/89-14 "Psalm 89:14 - Righteousness and Justice are the Foundation of Your Throne") that "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you." Thirdly and most significantly, it introduces the theme of **Messianic Hope and the Davidic Covenant**. The explicit reference to the "tabernacle of David" (Hebrew: _ʼôhel_ of _Dâvid_) directly points to the promise of an everlasting Davidic dynasty, a promise that had seemingly fallen into disrepair, as lamented in passages like [Amos 9:11](/amos/9-11 "Amos 9:11 - Restoration of David's Fallen Booth"). This verse thus anticipates the coming of a perfect Davidic King who will embody and enact ultimate justice and righteousness, offering stability and restoration in a world marked by injustice and instability.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Mercy (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_):** From H2617, this profound theological term encompasses kindness, steadfast love, covenantal loyalty, and enduring faithfulness. In [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth"), its application to the establishment of the throne signifies that the very foundation and operational character of this promised reign are rooted in God's unwavering, compassionate commitment. It indicates a kingdom whose existence and governance are characterized by divine grace and loyal love, rather than by human might or political expediency.
* **Established (Hebrew, _kûwn'_):** From H3559, this verb properly means to be erect, to set up, or to confirm, implying a state of being rendered sure, stable, and prepared. Its use here emphasizes the divine origin and unshakeable nature of the throne. Unlike the transient kingdoms of Moab or Assyria, this throne is divinely fixed and prepared, ensuring its permanence, reliability, and immutability. It speaks to an enduring reign that will not falter or be overthrown.
* **Truth (Hebrew, _ʼemeth'_):** From H571, this noun denotes stability, certainty, trustworthiness, and faithfulness. When applied to the ruler sitting on the throne, it signifies that his rule will be characterized by absolute integrity, reliability, and adherence to what is genuinely right and real. This ruler will govern with complete honesty and fidelity, ensuring that justice is administered without corruption, deceit, or deviation from divine standards.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in mercy shall the throne be established:"** This opening clause immediately sets the divine context for the promised reign. It declares that the very foundation of this future throne is God's steadfast love (_chêçêd_) and covenantal faithfulness. The establishment of this throne is not a result of human power, conquest, or political maneuvering, but rather an act of divine compassion and unwavering commitment, thereby guaranteeing its stability and inherently righteous character.
* **"and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David,"** This segment identifies both the nature of the future ruler and his specific lineage. The one who occupies this throne will govern with absolute integrity and faithfulness (_ʼemeth_), ensuring a reign free from corruption or deceit. The phrase "in the tabernacle of David" is a profoundly significant Messianic reference, directly pointing to the Davidic dynasty and the promise of an enduring king from David's line, signifying the restoration, re-establishment, and ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant with David.
* **"judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness."** These three active participles dynamically describe the proactive and zealous nature of this ruler's reign. He is not merely a passive arbiter but one who actively pronounces verdicts (_shâphaṭ_), diligently pursues and investigates justice (_dârash mishpâṭ_), and swiftly brings about what is right (_mâhîyr tsedeq_). This tripartite description emphasizes a comprehensive, zealous, and decisive commitment to upholding moral and legal equity, ensuring that justice is not delayed but eagerly pursued and promptly implemented.

#### Literary Devices
[Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and hopeful message. **Contrast** is central to its impact, as the promise of a stable, righteous throne stands in stark opposition to the preceding lament over Moab's destruction, highlighting divine order and enduring promise amidst human chaos and transient earthly powers. **Symbolism** is profoundly evident in "the throne" itself, which represents ultimate authority, sovereignty, and the seat of divine governance, and in "the tabernacle of David," which symbolizes the enduring Davidic dynasty and the covenant God made with David, pointing to a restored and eternal kingship. The use of **personification** attributes active human-like qualities—"judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness"—to the divine or divinely appointed ruler, emphasizing the active, intentional, and dynamic nature of this just reign. Furthermore, the **repetition** and **parallelism** in the phrases "judging, and seeking judgment" reinforce the comprehensive and diligent pursuit of justice, while the culminating phrase "hasting righteousness" adds a powerful sense of urgency, decisiveness, and zealous commitment to this perfect rule.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 16:5 resonates deeply with core biblical truths, portraying a divine standard for kingship and anticipating a future reality rooted in God's immutable character. The establishment of this throne in "mercy" (_chêçêd_) and the ruler's governance "in truth" (_ʼemeth_) underscore that true, legitimate authority flows directly from God's loyal love and unwavering integrity. This vision of a just and righteous reign, actively pursuing equity and swift justice, stands as the ultimate hope for a fallen and chaotic world. It speaks powerfully to God's unwavering commitment to restore order, rectify all wrongs, and bring about His perfect will, not through human might or political maneuvering, but through His own divine attributes embodied in a chosen, ideal ruler. This verse thus seamlessly connects the immediate context of judgment to the broader redemptive narrative, pointing to a future where divine justice, mercy, and truth definitively prevail.

* [Psalm 89:14](/psalms/89-14 "Righteousness and Justice are the Foundation of Your Throne"): "Righteousness and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face."
* [Jeremiah 23:5](/jeremiah/23-5 "The Righteous Branch"): "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth."
* [Micah 4:7](/micah/4-7 "The Lord Shall Reign in Zion"): "And I will make her that halted a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 16:5 offers profound insights for contemporary believers and leaders, serving as both an anchoring source of hope and a compelling blueprint for righteous living. In a world frequently characterized by pervasive injustice, corruption, and instability, this verse powerfully reminds us that God's ultimate plan is for a kingdom established on the unshakeable foundations of His mercy, truth, and active justice. This truth should profoundly anchor our hope, assuring us that God's sovereign and righteous rule will ultimately prevail, rectifying all wrongs and establishing perfect equity. For those entrusted with positions of authority—whether in government, community organizations, families, or the church—the attributes of this ideal ruler serve as a divine call to action. We are challenged to govern with compassion, integrity, and a proactive commitment to fairness, not merely reacting to injustice but actively and zealously "seeking judgment" and "hasting righteousness" within our respective spheres of influence. This verse also encourages us to fervently pray for and diligently work towards the manifestation of God's kingdom on earth, anticipating the full and glorious realization of this righteous reign.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of a throne established in "mercy" and "truth" challenge our contemporary understanding of power and leadership, particularly in secular contexts?**
* **In what specific, practical ways can we, as individuals and communities, actively "seek judgment" and "hasten righteousness" in our daily lives and spheres of influence, reflecting the character of the divine ruler?**
* **How does the stark contrast between Moab's destruction and the promised Davidic throne inform our perspective on the transient nature of earthly kingdoms versus the eternal, immutable nature of God's kingdom?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "tabernacle of David" in this verse?**

Answer: The "tabernacle of David" (Hebrew: _ʼôhel_ of _Dâvid_) is a profoundly significant reference to the Davidic dynasty and the foundational covenant God made with King David in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). In that covenant, God promised David an eternal house, kingdom, and throne. By Isaiah's time, the Davidic kingdom had faced considerable decline, division, and even temporary collapse. The use of "tabernacle" (which can also mean a temporary dwelling or booth) here might allude to the fallen or dilapidated state of David's house, as explicitly mentioned in [Amos 9:11](/amos/9-11 "Amos 9:11 - Restoration of David's Fallen Booth"): "In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of David that is fallen." Therefore, its establishment in [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") signifies a miraculous restoration, re-establishment, and ultimate fulfillment of this covenant, pointing to a future, perfect Davidic King who will reign in righteousness and enduring stability.

**How does this verse relate to the broader context of judgment against Moab?**

Answer: [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") serves as a striking theological counterpoint and a dramatic shift in focus within the preceding chapters detailing the "Burden of Moab" ([Isaiah 15-16:4](/isaiah/15 "Isaiah 15 - Burden Against Moab")). While the earlier verses describe the utter devastation, lament, and impending judgment upon Moab, [Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") abruptly shifts the focus from earthly destruction and despair to divine establishment and enduring hope. It offers a glimmer of light and promise amidst the pronouncements of doom, suggesting that even in times of widespread judgment and chaos, God's ultimate plan involves the establishment of a just, stable, and merciful kingdom that transcends all earthly turmoil. It highlights that divine judgment is not the final word, but rather a prelude to the manifestation of God's righteous and eternal reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Isaiah 16:5](/isaiah/16-5 "Isaiah 16:5 - The Throne of Mercy and Truth") finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. He is the promised Son of David, the one upon whom the eternal throne is established, not by human decree or power, but by divine mercy and truth. The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary explicitly connects Jesus to this prophecy, declaring, "He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Angel's Announcement to Mary")). Jesus perfectly embodies the qualities of the ideal ruler described in Isaiah: He is the very embodiment of truth, proclaiming, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), and His earthly ministry was characterized by profound mercy and compassion for the lost and suffering ([Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion for the Crowds")). As the Lamb of God, He takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), demonstrating the ultimate act of divine mercy and covenantal faithfulness. Furthermore, His future return will usher in a reign where He will judge the nations in perfect righteousness and truth, decisively "hasting righteousness" as He brings about the new heavens and new earth where justice dwells eternally ([Revelation 19:11](/revelation/19-11 "Revelation 19:11 - The Rider on the White Horse"); [2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth")). Thus, Isaiah's prophetic vision of a stable, merciful, and just reign finds its complete, eternal, and redemptive realization in the King of kings, Jesus 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

Daniel 7:14

And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

Micah 4:7

And I will make her that halted a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever.

Daniel 7:27

And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.

Isaiah 32:1

¶ Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment.

Isaiah 32:2

And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.