Isaiah 16:5

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.

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}.

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.

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.

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

Isaiah 16:5 stands as a beacon of hope and prophecy amidst the lament over Moab's destruction (Isaiah 15-16). This verse shifts focus from regional desolation to a future, divinely established reign characterized by profound justice and unwavering righteousness. It paints a picture of a stable, merciful, and truthful kingdom, contrasting sharply with the instability of earthly powers.

Context

Chapters 15 and 16 of Isaiah are known as the "Burden of Moab," detailing the impending judgment and subsequent lament over the Moabite nation. While the preceding verses describe Moab's distress and plea for refuge, Isaiah 16:5 introduces a striking counterpoint: the promise of a just and merciful throne. This prophetic utterance suggests that even in times of widespread judgment and turmoil, God's ultimate plan involves the establishment of a righteous and stable kingdom, offering a glimmer of hope and a vision for future restoration.

Key Themes

  • Divine Mercy and Steadfast Love: The verse begins, "And in mercy shall the throne be established." The Hebrew word for "mercy" here is chesed, denoting God's covenantal lovingkindness, loyalty, and steadfast love. This highlights that the very foundation of this righteous reign is not power or conquest, but divine compassion and unwavering faithfulness.
  • Righteous and Truthful Rule: The ruler "shall sit upon it in truth," indicating integrity, faithfulness, and reliability. The phrase "judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness" emphasizes an active, proactive, and swift commitment to justice. This ruler doesn't merely react but actively pursues and establishes what is right, ensuring a just administration.
  • Messianic Hope and the Davidic Covenant: The phrase "in the tabernacle of David" is a profound messianic reference. The "tabernacle" (Hebrew: sukkah or ohel) here refers not to a literal tent but to the dynasty or house of David. This points directly to the promised King who would descend from David, fulfilling the Davidic Covenant and restoring its fallen glory. Christian theology understands this as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, who reigns in truth and righteousness. The prophet Amos also speaks of restoring the tabernacle of David that is fallen down.
  • Stability Amidst Chaos: In stark contrast to the instability and desolation faced by Moab, this verse promises an established and unwavering throne. It offers a vision of stability rooted in divine character, providing hope for a world often characterized by injustice and upheaval.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "mercy," chesed, is a rich theological word, often translated as "steadfast love" or "lovingkindness." It speaks of a loyal, enduring love that forms the basis of covenant relationships. The word for "truth," emet, signifies faithfulness, reliability, and integrity. These twin pillars—chesed and emet—are frequently associated with God's character and the foundation of His throne, as seen in Psalm 89:14: "Righteousness and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face." The active verbs "judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness" depict a ruler who is not passive but intensely engaged in upholding and advancing justice.

Practical Application

Isaiah 16:5 offers timeless insights for believers and leaders today:

  • Hope in God's Reign: Even when the world seems chaotic and unjust, this verse reminds us that God's ultimate plan is for a kingdom established on mercy, truth, and righteousness. Our hope is anchored in His enduring character and His sovereign rule.
  • Model for Leadership: The characteristics of this ideal ruler—mercy, truth, and active pursuit of justice—serve as a divine blueprint for all who hold positions of authority, whether in government, business, or the home. Leaders are called to govern with compassion and integrity, actively seeking fairness for all.
  • Anticipation of Christ's Return: For Christians, this verse deeply resonates with the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the Son of David, the King whose throne is established in mercy and truth, and who will ultimately bring perfect justice and righteousness to the earth upon His return.
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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.