Isaiah 18:7

KJV

In that time shall the present be brought unto the LORD of hosts of a people scattered and peeled, and from a people terrible from their beginning hitherto; a nation meted out and trodden under foot, whose land the rivers have spoiled, to the place of the name of the LORD of hosts, the mount Zion.

KJV (with Strong's)

In that time {H6256} shall the present {H7862} be brought {H2986} unto the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} of a people {H5971} scattered {H4900} and peeled {H4178}, and from a people {H5971} terrible {H3372} from their beginning hitherto {H1973}; a nation {H1471} meted out {H6978} and trodden under foot {H4001}, whose land {H776} the rivers {H5104} have spoiled {H958}, to the place {H4725} of the name {H8034} of the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, the mount {H2022} Zion {H6726}.

Complete Jewish Bible

At that time tribute will be brought to ADONAI-Tzva'ot from a nation tall and bronzed, from a people feared far and near, from a strong and conquering nation whose land is divided by rivers, to the place where the name of ADONAI-Tzva'ot lives, Mount Tziyon.

Berean Standard Bible

At that time gifts will be brought to the LORD of Hosts— from a people tall and smooth-skinned, from a people widely feared, from a powerful nation of strange speech, whose land is divided by rivers— to Mount Zion, the place of the Name of the LORD of Hosts.

American Standard Version

In that time shall a present be brought unto Jehovah of hosts from a people tall and smooth, even from a people terrible from their beginning onward, a nation that meteth out and treadeth down, whose land the rivers divide, to the place of the name of Jehovah of hosts, the mount Zion.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 18:7 culminates a prophetic oracle concerning a formidable, distant nation, often identified as Cush (Ethiopia), by envisioning a future epoch when this very people, once described in terms of their power and distinctiveness, will willingly bring a tribute to the LORD of hosts. This verse dramatically shifts from the preceding divine judgment and observation to a scene of global recognition and worship, portraying the ultimate submission of a once-feared people to the sovereign God of Israel, culminating in their pilgrimage to Mount Zion, the dwelling place of God's name.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 18 stands as a distinct oracle, separate from the surrounding prophecies against specific nations. It begins with a warning to a "land of buzzing wings" (often translated as "whirring wings" or "shadowing with wings"), located "beyond the rivers of Cush" (Isaiah 18:1). This enigmatic description sets the stage for a message directed at a powerful, distant, and perhaps intimidating nation known for its swift messengers (Isaiah 18:2). The preceding verses (Isaiah 18:3-6) describe God's sovereign observation of all earthly affairs, likening His judgment to a gardener pruning vines or cutting down branches before the harvest, indicating His complete control over the destinies of nations. Verse 7 serves as the climactic resolution, revealing that despite its formidable nature or prior judgment, this nation will ultimately acknowledge and honor the LORD, bringing a gift to His holy mountain. This transition from judgment to worship underscores God's ultimate redemptive purpose even for those outside the covenant community of Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "land beyond the rivers of Cush" likely refers to ancient Nubia or Ethiopia, a powerful kingdom south of Egypt. At the time of Isaiah, the 25th Dynasty of Egypt was of Kushite (Nubian) origin, and there was a significant political and military presence of Cush in the broader Near East. This nation was known for its distinct physical characteristics (tall, smooth-skinned people) and its military prowess, often engaging with Assyria, the dominant superpower of Isaiah's era. The description of them as "terrible from their beginning hitherto" (Isaiah 18:2) reflects their historical reputation. The "rivers" mentioned could refer to the Nile and its tributaries, which were central to Cushite geography. The concept of bringing a "present" or tribute to a deity or sovereign was a common ancient Near Eastern practice, signifying submission, honor, or a plea for favor. The prophecy, therefore, envisions a future scenario where a once-feared and distinct power will willingly engage in an act of reverence towards the God of Israel, acknowledging His supreme authority over all earthly powers and geographical boundaries.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of Isaiah 18:7 is the **universal sovereignty of God** and the **future inclusion of all nations in His worship**. This verse powerfully illustrates that God's redemptive plan extends beyond Israel, encompassing even those who were historically distinct or adversarial. The transformation of a "terrible" people into worshippers who bring a "present" to the LORD highlights God's ability to change hearts and destinies, demonstrating His ultimate authority over all peoples and their affairs. This aligns with broader prophetic visions in Isaiah that anticipate a time when "many peoples shall come and say, 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob'" [Isaiah 2:3](/isaiah/2-3 "Isaiah 2:3 - The Law from Zion"). Furthermore, the explicit mention of "the mount Zion" underscores the **centrality of Jerusalem** as the chosen place for God's name to dwell and the focal point for future global worship and divine revelation. It speaks to a future where God's glory will be recognized by all, leading to a unified, global pilgrimage of reverence. The imagery of a people "scattered and peeled" and "trodden under foot" also subtly introduces themes of **divine judgment and subsequent restoration**, suggesting that this nation may have undergone hardship before its turning to the LORD.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **present (Hebrew, _shay'_):** H7862. This term signifies a "gift" or "tribute." In the context of ancient Near Eastern diplomacy and worship, a "present" brought to a king or deity was an act of homage, submission, and respect. Here, it is not a forced tribute but a willingly brought offering, symbolizing the voluntary recognition of the LORD's supreme authority by a distant and formidable people. It represents their acknowledgment of His rightful dominion.
* **terrible (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** H3372. This root means "to fear," "to revere," or "to frighten." When applied to the people in Isaiah 18, it describes them as "dreadful" or "awe-inspiring" from their inception, indicating their historical reputation as a formidable and perhaps intimidating nation. However, the prophetic shift in verse 7 implies that the fear once inspired by this nation will be transformed into reverence directed towards the LORD, as they themselves come to fear (revere) Him.
* **Zion (Hebrew, _Tsîyôwn'_):** H6726. Zion refers to the mountain in Jerusalem where the temple was built and where God's presence was said to dwell. It is often used synonymously with Jerusalem itself or as a symbol for God's dwelling place and the center of His redemptive plan. Its mention here as the destination for the "present" underscores Jerusalem's eschatological role as the spiritual capital of the world, where all nations will ultimately gather to worship the one true God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In that time shall the present be brought unto the LORD of hosts":** This clause sets a future, eschatological tone ("In that time"). It declares that a "present" (a tribute or offering) will be brought. The recipient is "the LORD of hosts," emphasizing God's supreme power and dominion over all heavenly and earthly armies, a fitting title for the God to whom a formidable nation will submit.
* **"of a people scattered and peeled":** This describes the nature of the people bringing the gift. "Scattered" (H4900 _mâshak_) suggests a people spread out or dispersed, perhaps across a vast territory or having experienced a period of dispersion. "Peeled" (H4178 _môwrâṭ_) can mean "plucked clean," "polished," or "shaven," often interpreted as referring to their smooth skin (characteristic of some African peoples) or perhaps indicating a people who have been stripped, plundered, or refined through hardship.
* **"and from a people terrible from their beginning hitherto; a nation meted out and trodden under foot":** This further characterizes the nation. They are "terrible" (H3372 _yârêʼ_) or dreadful, having been so "from their beginning hitherto" (H1973 _hâlᵉʼâh_), emphasizing their long-standing reputation. The phrases "meted out" (H6978 _qav-qav_, suggesting measured or strong) and "trodden under foot" (H4001 _mᵉbûwçâh_, implying oppression or trampling) present a paradox: a people both formidable and yet having experienced hardship or subjugation, perhaps by divine judgment or other powers.
* **"whose land the rivers have spoiled":** This detail about their land, "spoiled" (H958 _bâzâʼ_) by "rivers" (H5104 _nâhâr_), could refer to annual flooding that impacts the land, or figuratively, to destructive forces (like invading armies) that have swept through their territory. It adds to the imagery of a land and people that have experienced significant upheaval.
* **"to the place of the name of the LORD of hosts, the mount Zion.":** This specifies the destination of the "present." It is not just to any place, but "to the place of the name of the LORD of hosts," signifying a sacred, divinely designated location where God's presence and authority are uniquely manifested. This place is explicitly identified as "the mount Zion" (H6726 _Tsîyôwn_), underscoring Jerusalem's role as the spiritual center for universal worship in the eschatological age.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 18:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. **Imagery** is prominent, painting a vivid picture of a distant, formidable, yet ultimately transformed people. The descriptions "scattered and peeled," "terrible," "meted out and trodden under foot," and "whose land the rivers have spoiled" evoke a sense of their unique identity, historical reputation, and past experiences of hardship. This detailed portrayal makes their eventual act of worship even more striking. **Symbolism** is also central, with the "present" symbolizing not just a material gift but an act of homage, submission, and recognition of God's sovereignty. "Mount Zion" functions as a powerful symbol of God's dwelling place, the center of His kingdom, and the ultimate destination for all nations in the eschatological age. The shift from a description of a feared people to one bringing a gift to God's holy mountain creates a profound **Contrast**, highlighting the transformative power of God's redemptive plan and His ability to draw all peoples to Himself.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 18:7 stands as a powerful testament to the universal scope of God's redemptive plan and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations. It shatters any notion of God being exclusively the God of Israel, proclaiming a future where even the most distant and formidable peoples will willingly acknowledge His authority and bring Him worship. This vision anticipates a time of global peace and unity centered on God's holy mountain, where distinctions of ethnicity and nationality are transcended by a shared reverence for the LORD of hosts. It underscores the prophetic theme that God's glory will ultimately fill the earth, drawing all humanity into His presence. The transformation of a "terrible" people into worshippers highlights God's power to change hearts and destinies, demonstrating that no nation is beyond the reach of His redemptive grace.

* [Psalm 68:29-31](/psalms/68-29 "Psalm 68:29-31 - Kings Bringing Presents to Jerusalem"): "Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee... Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God."
* [Micah 4:1-2](/micah/4-1 "Micah 4:1-2 - The Mountain of the Lord's House Established"): "But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it. And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD..."
* [Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - All Nations Worshiping in Jerusalem"): "And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 18:7 offers immense hope and a profound challenge to believers today. It reminds us that God's redemptive work is not confined by geographical or cultural boundaries; His desire is for all peoples, even those historically perceived as distant, alien, or formidable, to come to Him in worship. This vision should ignite a passion for global missions and evangelism, compelling us to pray for and actively participate in the spread of the Gospel to every corner of the earth. It encourages us to see beyond present conflicts and cultural divides, anticipating the glorious day when diverse peoples will unite in reverent worship before the LORD on Mount Zion. This prophecy reinforces the truth that God's ultimate plan is for a universal kingdom where His name is honored by all, inspiring us to live with an eschatological hope that fuels our present efforts to make Christ known among the nations. It calls us to embody the inclusive love of God, reaching out to those who are "scattered and peeled," recognizing their potential to become fervent worshippers of the Living God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Isaiah 18:7 challenge our perceptions of who God desires to redeem and include in His kingdom?**
* **What does the willingness of a "terrible" nation to bring a "present" to the LORD teach us about the transformative power of God's sovereignty?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals and as the church, actively participate in bringing this vision of global worship to fruition?**
* **How does the centrality of Mount Zion in this prophecy inform our understanding of God's future plans for Jerusalem and the world?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "people scattered and peeled" and "terrible from their beginning hitherto" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: While not explicitly named, the context of Isaiah 18:1, which refers to a "land beyond the rivers of Cush," strongly suggests this refers to ancient Cush (Ethiopia) or a related Nubian kingdom. This identification is supported by historical knowledge of Cush as a powerful and distinct nation known for its tall, smooth-skinned people. The descriptions "scattered and peeled" and "meted out and trodden under foot" could refer to their physical characteristics, their dispersed nature, or experiences of hardship and oppression. The phrase "terrible from their beginning hitherto" reflects their long-standing reputation as a formidable military and political power in the ancient world, often engaging with empires like Assyria. This prophecy envisions even such a historically imposing and distant nation ultimately turning to the LORD.

**What is the significance of "the present" being brought to the LORD of hosts?**

Answer: The "present" (Hebrew _shay'_) is a tribute or gift, symbolizing an act of homage, submission, and worship. In the ancient Near East, bringing a present to a sovereign or a deity was a common way to acknowledge their authority, seek favor, or express reverence. In Isaiah 18:7, it signifies the voluntary recognition by this formidable nation of the LORD's supreme dominion. It is not a forced tribute but a willing offering, demonstrating their spiritual transformation and their desire to honor the God of Israel. This act foreshadows a future time when all nations will acknowledge the LORD's sovereignty and bring Him glory, as seen in passages like [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings Bringing Tribute to the Messiah").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 18:7 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the universal reach of the Gospel and the establishment of God's kingdom through Jesus Christ. The "present" brought to the "LORD of hosts" on "Mount Zion" foreshadows the spiritual homage that all nations will render to God through His Son. Jesus, as the true King of kings and Lord of lords, has broken down the dividing wall of hostility between peoples [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace"), inviting all, regardless of their past "terrible" reputation or "scattered and peeled" condition, to enter into His saving grace. The pilgrimage to Mount Zion is spiritually realized in the church, which is the spiritual Zion, the gathering place of God's people from every tribe and tongue [Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - You Have Come to Mount Zion"). Through Christ's atoning work, the once-feared and distant are brought near, transformed by the Holy Spirit into worshippers who offer their lives as a "living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God" [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice"), which is their true spiritual worship. This verse points to the glorious consummation where, at the end of time, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow").

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

Zephaniah 3:10

From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia my suppliants, [even] the daughter of my dispersed, shall bring mine offering.

Acts 8:27

And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,

Acts 8:28

Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

Zechariah 14:16

¶ And it shall come to pass, [that] every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles.

Zechariah 14:17

And it shall be, [that] whoso will not come up of [all] the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain.

Isaiah 45:14

Thus saith the LORD, The labour of Egypt, and merchandise of Ethiopia and of the Sabeans, men of stature, shall come over unto thee, and they shall be thine: they shall come after thee; in chains they shall come over, and they shall fall down unto thee, they shall make supplication unto thee, [saying], Surely God [is] in thee; and [there is] none else, [there is] no God.

2 Chronicles 32:23

And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth.