Isaiah 19:18

KJV

¶ In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.

KJV (with Strong's)

In that day {H3117} shall five {H2568} cities {H5892} in the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714} speak {H1696} the language {H8193} of Canaan {H3667}, and swear {H7650} to the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}; one {H259} shall be called {H559}, The city {H5892} of destruction {H2041}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On that day there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak the language of Kena'an and swear loyalty to ADONAI-Tzva'ot; one of them will be called the City of Destruction.

Berean Standard Bible

In that day five cities in the land of Egypt will speak the language of Canaan and swear allegiance to the LORD of Hosts. One of them will be called the City of the Sun.

American Standard Version

In that day there shall be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak the language of Canaan, and swear to Jehovah of hosts; one shall be called The city of destruction.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:18 unveils a remarkable prophecy concerning the future of Egypt, a nation historically characterized by polytheism and often in opposition to Israel. It foretells a profound spiritual transformation in "that day," a significant eschatological period, when a substantial portion of Egypt will turn from its traditional idolatry to embrace the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. This verse highlights God's sovereign plan to extend His redemptive grace beyond His covenant people, envisioning a future where even former adversaries pledge allegiance to Him and acknowledge His supreme lordship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19 is situated within a broader section of "oracles against the nations" (Isaiah 13-23), a series of prophecies primarily pronouncing judgment on various foreign powers. However, chapter 19 stands out for its unique trajectory regarding Egypt. While the initial verses detail severe judgments, including internal strife, economic collapse, and divine chastisement, culminating in [Isaiah 19:15](/isaiah/19-15 "Isaiah 19:15 - Egypt's Leaders Fail"), the latter half of the chapter, beginning with [Isaiah 19:16](/isaiah/19-16 "Isaiah 19:16 - Egypt Trembles Before the Lord"), shifts dramatically to astonishing promises of future blessing, conversion, and reconciliation. This immediate literary context underscores a key theological truth: God's ultimate redemptive purpose often transcends initial judgment, extending His grace even to historical enemies and envisioning a future of shared worship and peace among nations, as explicitly stated in [Isaiah 19:23-25](/isaiah/19-23-25 "Isaiah 19:23-25 - A Highway from Egypt to Assyria").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a formidable global power, renowned for its deeply entrenched polytheistic religion, advanced civilization, and often adversarial interactions with Israel. The pharaohs were considered divine, and the land was saturated with temples and cults dedicated to a vast pantheon of gods, including Ra, Osiris, Isis, and Amun. The phrase "language of Canaan" refers to Hebrew, the language of Israel, which carried profound religious and covenantal significance as the medium of Yahweh's revelation. For Egypt to "speak the language of Canaan" and "swear to the LORD of hosts" would represent an utterly radical departure from their deeply rooted idolatrous practices and a monumental shift in their national identity and allegiance. This prophecy envisions a spiritual conquest far more profound and transformative than any military victory, signifying a complete reorientation of their spiritual and cultural landscape.

* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 19:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and broader biblical theology. It powerfully illustrates **Divine Sovereignty Over Nations**, demonstrating that God's redemptive plan encompasses all peoples, not merely His chosen nation, Israel. It serves as a striking example of the **Conversion of the Gentiles**, foreshadowing the New Testament era where salvation extends to all who believe, regardless of ethnic background or former allegiances, a truth powerfully articulated in [Romans 10:12](/romans/10-12 "Romans 10:12 - No Distinction Between Jew and Gentile"). The prophecy also introduces a profound theme of **Future Hope and Restoration**, presenting a vision of reconciliation and shared worship among nations that were once bitter enemies, culminating in the remarkable declaration of blessing for Egypt and Assyria alongside Israel in [Isaiah 19:25](/isaiah/19-25 "Isaiah 19:25 - A Blessing for Egypt and Assyria"). Furthermore, the concept of "speaking the language of Canaan" highlights **Linguistic and Cultural Transformation** as a potent symbol of spiritual allegiance, indicating a deep, internal change rather than mere external conformity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **speak (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** H1696, a primitive root meaning "to arrange," but used figuratively (of words), "to speak." This word encompasses a wide range of verbal actions, including declaring, commanding, communing, and teaching. In the context of Egypt speaking the "language of Canaan," it signifies far more than mere linguistic adoption; it implies the articulation of Yahweh's truths, the confession of His sovereignty, and the adoption of His covenantal terms. It suggests a complete embrace of the spiritual vocabulary and worldview of Yahweh worship.
* **destruction (Hebrew, _hereç'_):** H2041, from the root "hâras," meaning "demolition; destruction." This term denotes a state of ruin, overthrow, or devastation. Its application to one of the cities, particularly in a context of conversion and allegiance to the LORD, introduces a powerful tension. It suggests either a city once marked for divine judgment that undergoes a radical transformation, its former identity "destroyed" to be reborn under Yahweh's lordship, or it may allude to the symbolic overthrow of the idolatrous systems prevalent in such a city.
* **swear (Hebrew, _shâbaʻ'_):H7650, properly "to be complete," but used as a denominative from "sheba" (seven), meaning "to seven oneself," i.e., to swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times). This signifies the making of a solemn oath, a binding covenant, or a profound pledge of allegiance. When Egypt "swears to the LORD of hosts," it indicates a complete and sincere turning away from their former pagan loyalties to an exclusive, unwavering devotion to Yahweh, acknowledging His supreme authority and power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan":** This opening clause establishes the prophetic timeline ("in that day," referring to a future, significant, often eschatological, period) and identifies the subjects of the prophecy: a substantial, though not necessarily exhaustive, portion of Egypt, symbolized by "five cities." The phrase "speak the language of Canaan" is deeply symbolic, indicating a profound spiritual and cultural conversion. It signifies the adoption of the faith, worship, and covenantal terms of Israel's God, Yahweh, rather than a literal change of spoken tongue. It implies a shift in allegiance from Egyptian deities to the one true God.
* **"and swear to the LORD of hosts":** This phrase clarifies the nature and depth of the transformation: it is an act of solemn allegiance, a binding covenant, and a public declaration of loyalty. To "swear to the LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) means to pledge devotion and obedience to the God who commands heavenly armies and all creation, acknowledging His supreme authority and power. This act represents a direct and unequivocal repudiation of their former polytheistic practices and a commitment to exclusive worship of Yahweh.
* **"one shall be called, The city of destruction":** This concluding clause introduces a specific and often debated detail. "One" of these five cities, now aligned with Yahweh, will bear a name reflecting "destruction" (Hebrew: _hereç_). This could signify a city once prominent in idolatry or marked for judgment that will be symbolically or literally "destroyed" in its former identity, only to be reborn under Yahweh's lordship. Alternatively, some scholars propose a wordplay on "City of the Sun" (Heliopolis), suggesting that a major center of pagan worship would be transformed, its idolatrous foundations "destroyed" in favor of Yahweh's truth.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:18 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, particularly evident in the phrase "speak the language of Canaan." This is not a literal linguistic shift but a powerful symbolic representation of adopting the spiritual, theological, and covenantal framework of Yahweh worship. The number "five cities" also functions symbolically, indicating a significant, measurable, but not necessarily exhaustive, portion of Egypt undergoing this transformation. The naming of "The city of destruction" carries a strong sense of **Irony** or **Paradox**, as a place historically associated with ruin, judgment, or even paganism is paradoxically among those who turn to the LORD. This creates a striking contrast between Egypt's past idolatry and its future allegiance. The entire verse is a prime example of **Prophecy**, foretelling a future event that radically challenges conventional geopolitical and religious expectations, pointing towards God's universal redemptive plan and His ability to transform even the most unlikely nations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 19:18 offers a profound theological insight into the universal scope of God's redemptive plan. It shatters any notion that God's covenant relationship is exclusively confined to Israel, demonstrating His sovereign desire to draw all nations to Himself. This prophecy anticipates the New Covenant era, where ethnic barriers are broken down, and salvation is extended to Gentiles through faith in Christ. The transformation of Egypt, a historical oppressor and bastion of idolatry, into a worshiper of Yahweh underscores the radical, transformative power of God's grace, capable of converting even the most hardened hearts and nations. It affirms that God's ultimate purpose is to establish a kingdom where people from every tribe, tongue, and nation worship Him in spirit and truth.

* [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - All Nations Stream to the Lord's House") - Prophesies that in the last days, all nations will stream to the mountain of the LORD's house to learn His ways.
* [Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - Nations Worship the King in Jerusalem") - Describes a future where survivors from all nations that attacked Jerusalem will come up year after year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts.
* [Malachi 1:11](/malachi/1-11 "Malachi 1:11 - God's Name Honored Among the Gentiles") - Declares that from the rising of the sun to its setting, God's name will be great among the Gentiles, and incense and pure offerings will be presented to Him in every place.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 19:18 serves as a powerful and enduring reminder of God's expansive love and His unwavering commitment to redeem and transform all peoples. In a world often characterized by deep-seated division, conflict, and religious animosity, this prophecy offers a breathtaking vision of hope: that even the most entrenched spiritual strongholds and historical adversaries can be overcome by the sovereign power of the Gospel. It profoundly challenges believers to embrace a global perspective on God's mission, fueling our passion for evangelism, cross-cultural ministry, and intercessory prayer for nations. Just as ancient Egypt was called to abandon its idols and embrace the "language" of Yahweh, so too are individuals and communities today called to turn from their own forms of idolatry—whether the worship of material wealth, self-reliance, political ideologies, or cultural gods—and pledge their exclusive allegiance to the one true God through Jesus Christ. This verse inspires us to pray for and actively participate in the spiritual transformation of nations, trusting that God is relentlessly at work, drawing people from every corner of the earth into His glorious kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the prophecy of Egypt's conversion challenge my preconceived notions about who God can save or transform, particularly regarding groups or nations I might consider hostile or resistant to the Gospel?**
* **What "languages" or worldviews in my own life, community, or culture need to be transformed to align more fully with the "language of Canaan"—that is, the truths, values, and covenantal terms of God's kingdom?**
* **In what tangible ways can I participate in God's global mission to see nations and peoples "speak the language of Canaan" and "swear to the LORD of hosts"?**

### FAQ
**What does "speak the language of Canaan" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Speaking the language of Canaan" in [Isaiah 19:18](/isaiah/19-18 "Isaiah 19:18 - Egypt's Future Conversion") is a rich symbolic expression rather than a literal linguistic prediction. It does not mean that Egyptians would abandon their native language (ancient Egyptian, which evolved into Coptic) for Hebrew. Instead, it signifies a profound spiritual, theological, and cultural conversion. "The language of Canaan" (Hebrew) was the language of God's covenant with Israel, the medium of His divine revelation, and the vehicle for true worship. Therefore, to "speak" this language means to adopt the faith, values, and allegiance associated with the God of Israel. It implies a turning away from polytheism and idolatry to embrace the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, understanding and articulating His truths, and participating in His covenant. This transformation is not merely superficial but indicates a deep, internal shift in their spiritual identity and devotion, much like how believers today are called to "speak the truth in love" as they grow into Christ [Ephesians 4:15](/ephesians/4-15 "Ephesians 4:15 - Speaking the Truth in Love").

**What is the significance of "The city of destruction," and is there an alternative interpretation?**

Answer: The phrase "The city of destruction" (Hebrew: _ʻîyr ha-hereç_) in [Isaiah 19:18](/isaiah/19-18 "Isaiah 19:18 - The City of Destruction") is one of the most debated and intriguing elements of this verse. The Hebrew word _hereç_ (H2041) unequivocally means "demolition" or "destruction," aligning with the KJV translation. This interpretation suggests that one of the cities, perhaps a prominent center of idolatry or a place once marked for divine judgment, will paradoxically become a center of Yahweh worship, highlighting the radical and transformative nature of God's redemptive work. It could symbolize the "destruction" of its former pagan identity.

However, there is a significant and widely accepted alternative interpretation based on a slight phonetic and orthographic variation in Hebrew. The word _hereç_ (חרס) is very similar to _cheres_ (חֶרֶס), which means "sun." This similarity has led many scholars and ancient translations (most notably the Septuagint, which translates it as "City of Righteousness" or "City of the Sun") to interpret the phrase as "City of the Sun." If this interpretation is correct, the prophecy would refer to Heliopolis (known as On in Egyptian), a major religious center in ancient Egypt dedicated to the worship of the sun god Ra. The prophecy would then foretell the conversion of this prominent stronghold of paganism to the worship of the one true God, making the triumph of Yahweh over all false gods even more striking. While the Masoretic Text (the basis for most modern Hebrew Bibles and translations like the KJV) supports "destruction," the scholarly discussion acknowledges the strong plausibility and profound theological impact of the "City of the Sun" interpretation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 19:18 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's universal plan to reconcile all things to Himself. The prophecy of Egypt turning to Yahweh foreshadows the New Covenant era, inaugurated by Christ's sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection, which effectively broke down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile, making "both one" in Him [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace"). Through Christ, the "language of Canaan"—the language of faith, repentance, and allegiance to the one true God—became universally accessible to all nations. Jesus' Great Commission to "make disciples of all nations" [Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission") is the direct outworking of this ancient prophetic vision, demonstrating that God's desire for all peoples to "swear to the LORD of hosts" is being realized through the global spread of the Gospel. The transformation of a "city of destruction" into a place of worship for Yahweh powerfully illustrates the radical redemptive power of Christ, who takes what is broken, ruined, and enslaved by sin and makes it new, bringing His glorious light to those who formerly sat in spiritual darkness and the shadow of death [Luke 1:79](/luke/1-79 "Luke 1:79 - Light for Those in Darkness"). Ultimately, it is Christ's atoning sacrifice and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that enable people from every tongue, tribe, and nation to confess Him as Lord, fulfilling the ancient promise of a world united in worship of the one true God and the Lamb [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation Worships God").

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 3:9

For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him with one consent.

Isaiah 19:21

And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform [it].

Zechariah 2:11

And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.

Jeremiah 12:16

And it shall come to pass, if they will diligently learn the ways of my people, to swear by my name, The LORD liveth; as they taught my people to swear by Baal; then shall they be built in the midst of my people.

Isaiah 11:11

And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.

Isaiah 27:13

And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come which were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the LORD in the holy mount at Jerusalem.

Isaiah 2:11

The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.