Isaiah 19:19

In that day shall there be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to the LORD.

In that day {H3117} shall there be an altar {H4196} to the LORD {H3068} in the midst {H8432} of the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}, and a pillar {H4676} at {H681} the border {H1366} thereof to the LORD {H3068}.

On that day there will be an altar to ADONAI in the middle of the land of Egypt, as well as a standing-stone for ADONAI at its border.

In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the center of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the LORD near her border.

In that day shall there be an altar to Jehovah in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar at the border thereof to Jehovah.

Isaiah 19:19 presents a remarkable prophecy concerning the future of Egypt, a nation historically known for its idolatry and opposition to God's people, Israel. This verse foretells a time when true worship of the LORD will be established in the heart of Egypt, signifying a profound spiritual transformation and reconciliation.

Context

This verse is part of a larger prophetic oracle against Egypt in Isaiah 19. The chapter begins with pronouncements of judgment upon Egypt, depicting internal strife, economic collapse, and a loss of wisdom. However, the prophecy shifts from judgment to a future restoration and blessing, culminating in a vision of Egypt (along with Assyria) joining Israel as God's people (Isaiah 19:25). The phrase "In that day" points to a future, often eschatological, period when God's ultimate plan for the nations will unfold. Historically, Egypt was the land where Israel was enslaved, and its gods were a constant temptation to idolatry (Exodus 1:8). This prophecy thus represents a radical reversal of historical roles and spiritual allegiance.

Key Themes

  • Universal Worship: The presence of an "altar to the LORD" in Egypt signifies that God's plan for salvation and worship extends beyond Israel to include all nations. It underscores the truth that God desires all peoples to know and worship Him, not just those who have historically been His covenant people. This aligns with broader biblical themes of God's name being great among the Gentiles.
  • Divine Sovereignty and Transformation: This prophecy demonstrates God's absolute power to transform even the most resistant nations. Egypt, once a symbol of worldly power and opposition to God, is envisioned as a place where the LORD is honored.
  • Reconciliation and Peace: The establishment of an altar and pillar indicates a covenant relationship and recognition of God's presence. This points to a future era of peace and reconciliation between God and humanity, transcending national and historical animosities.
  • A Witness to the Nations: A "pillar at the border" serves as a public monument or sign, indicating that Egypt's transformation will be a visible testimony to surrounding regions, declaring God's sovereignty.

Linguistic Insights

  • "In that day" (בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא, bay-yom ha-hu): This is a common prophetic idiom used throughout the Old Testament to denote a significant, future epoch, often associated with God's intervention in history, judgment, or the establishment of His kingdom.
  • "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): A place of sacrifice and worship. Its presence in Egypt signifies legitimate, accepted worship of Yahweh, a stark contrast to Egypt's pagan practices.
  • "pillar" (מַצֵּבָה, matzevah): This term refers to a standing stone or monument, often erected as a memorial, a boundary marker, or a sign of covenant and dedication (e.g., Jacob's pillar at Bethel). Its placement at the border suggests a public declaration or a demarcation of God's territory and presence.

Practical Application

Isaiah 19:19 offers immense hope and encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  1. God's Redemptive Plan is Global: No nation or people group is beyond the reach of God's grace and redemptive power. This verse fuels our passion for missions and global evangelism, aligning with the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
  2. Transformation is Possible: Just as Egypt, a former oppressor, is prophesied to worship the LORD, individuals and communities can be transformed by God's Spirit, turning from darkness to light.
  3. Hope for the Future: This prophecy points to a future where divine peace and universal worship will characterize the earth, a testament to God's ultimate victory and the fulfillment of His kingdom.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Genesis 28:18

    And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put [for] his pillows, and set it up [for] a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.

  • Joshua 22:10

    ¶ And when they came unto the borders of Jordan, that [are] in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh built there an altar by Jordan, a great altar to see to.

  • Exodus 24:4

    And Moses wrote all the words of the LORD, and rose up early in the morning, and builded an altar under the hill, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel.

  • Joshua 22:26

    Therefore we said, Let us now prepare to build us an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice:

  • Zechariah 6:15

    And they [that are] far off shall come and build in the temple of the LORD, and ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you. And [this] shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God.

  • Isaiah 66:23

    And it shall come to pass, [that] from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD.

  • Genesis 12:7

    And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

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