Isaiah 19:20

KJV

And it shall be for a sign and for a witness unto the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt: for they shall cry unto the LORD because of the oppressors, and he shall send them a saviour, and a great one, and he shall deliver them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it shall be for a sign {H226} and for a witness {H5707} unto the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} in the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}: for they shall cry {H6817} unto the LORD {H3068} because {H6440} of the oppressors {H3905}, and he shall send {H7971} them a saviour {H3467}, and a great one {H7227}, and he shall deliver {H5337} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

It will be a sign and witness to ADONAI-Tzva'ot in the land of Egypt; so that when they cry out to ADONAI for help because of the oppressors, he will send them a savior to defend and rescue them.

Berean Standard Bible

It will be a sign and a witness to the LORD of Hosts in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a savior and defender to rescue them.

American Standard Version

And it shall be for a sign and for a witness unto Jehovah of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they shall cry unto Jehovah because of oppressors, and he will send them a saviour, and a defender, and he will deliver them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:20 presents a remarkable prophetic declaration concerning Egypt, envisioning a future where, after experiencing divine judgment and subsequent oppression, the nation will turn to the LORD in distress. In response to their cry, God promises to send a powerful deliverer who will rescue them. This divine intervention will serve as a profound "sign" and "witness" to the LORD's sovereignty and redemptive power, not only for Egypt but for all nations to behold, demonstrating His universal compassion and readiness to save those who seek Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19 is famously known as the "Burden of Egypt," a significant prophetic oracle within the larger collection of "Oracles Against the Nations" (Isaiah 13-23). This chapter meticulously details God's impending judgment upon Egypt, describing internal strife, economic collapse, and the humbling of its wise leaders. However, uniquely among the oracles against foreign nations, Isaiah 19 culminates in a surprising and hopeful promise of future restoration and even spiritual transformation for Egypt. Verse 20 specifically marks a turning point, transitioning from the descriptions of judgment and distress to the promise of divine intervention and salvation, setting the stage for the remarkable vision of Egypt, Assyria, and Israel united in worship and blessing found in [Isaiah 19:23-25](/isaiah/19-23 "Isaiah 19:23-25 - A Highway from Egypt to Assyria").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Egypt held immense geopolitical and cultural significance in the ancient Near East, often serving as a powerful empire that influenced or oppressed Israel throughout its history, from the Exodus to periods of alliance and conflict. Historically, Egypt was a land of idolatry, known for its pantheon of gods and its resistance to the God of Israel. The prophecy in Isaiah 19, therefore, is particularly striking as it envisions a future where this historically antagonistic and idolatrous nation would acknowledge and cry out to the LORD. The "oppressors" mentioned could refer to internal strife, foreign invaders (like Assyria, a dominant power of Isaiah's time), or even the spiritual oppression of their own idolatry, leading to a desperate plea for divine help, reminiscent of Israel's own cries in [Exodus 2:23-25](/exodus/2-23 "Exodus 2:23-25 - God Hears Israel's Groaning").
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Isaiah. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **God's Universal Sovereignty**, demonstrating that His authority extends beyond Israel to encompass all nations, including those traditionally hostile to His people. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment as a Prelude to Redemption**, showing that God's disciplinary actions are not merely punitive but often serve to humble nations and prepare them for a saving encounter with Him. Lastly, and most profoundly, it introduces the theme of **Future Salvation for the Gentiles**, foreshadowing a time when non-Israelite nations will turn to the LORD and experience His deliverance, a concept expanded upon throughout Isaiah (e.g., [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House") and [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light for the Gentiles")). The promise of a "saviour, and a great one" also subtly introduces **Messianic Hope**, hinting at a deliverer whose ultimate fulfillment transcends immediate historical figures.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sign (Hebrew, _ʼôwth'_):** This word refers to a signal, a visible token, a monument, or an evidence. In this context, God's act of sending a deliverer to Egypt will serve as a clear, undeniable demonstration of His power and presence, a tangible proof of His work in the world. It is not merely a symbolic gesture but an active, observable manifestation of divine intervention.
* **witness (Hebrew, _ʻêd'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to testify," this term signifies concrete testimony or evidence. The deliverance of Egypt will stand as a powerful testament to the LORD's faithfulness and ability to respond to the cries of the oppressed, validating His character and sovereignty before all who observe it. It is a declaration of truth through action.
* **saviour (Hebrew, _yâshaʻ'_):** This word comes from a primitive root meaning "to be open, wide or free," and by implication, "to be safe." Causatively, it means "to free or succor." The "saviour" is one who brings salvation, deliverance, or rescue. The use of this term here emphasizes not just a political or military leader, but one who brings true, comprehensive liberation, implying divine agency behind the deliverance.
* **oppressors (Hebrew, _lâchats'_):** This root means "to press," and figuratively, "to distress" or "afflict." The "oppressors" are those who inflict pressure, hardship, or suffering. The verse highlights that Egypt's cry is specifically "because of the oppressors," indicating a state of severe distress that drives them to seek divine help, much like Israel's experience in [Exodus 3:7](/exodus/3-7 "Exodus 3:7 - God Hears Israel's Affliction").

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it shall be for a sign and for a witness unto the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt:"** This opening clause establishes the purpose and significance of God's future actions in Egypt. The deliverance is not merely for Egypt's benefit but primarily for the glory of "the LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth), a title emphasizing His supreme power and command over all heavenly and earthly armies. His intervention will serve as a visible **sign** and undeniable **witness** to His omnipotence and faithfulness, demonstrating His character to the Egyptians and to the surrounding nations.
* **"for they shall cry unto the LORD because of the oppressors,"** This clause explains the catalyst for divine intervention: Egypt's desperate plea. Facing severe pressure and affliction from "oppressors" (which could be internal strife, foreign invaders, or even the spiritual bondage of idolatry), the Egyptians will, out of their distress, turn to the LORD. This highlights a universal principle: God responds to the sincere cries of those in need, even from nations historically estranged from Him.
* **"and he shall send them a saviour, and a great one, and he shall deliver them."** This climactic promise details God's compassionate response. In answer to their cry, God Himself will "send" a "saviour" – a deliverer who brings salvation and rescue. The addition "and a great one" emphasizes the stature, power, and effectiveness of this deliverer, ensuring that the deliverance will be complete and decisive. The repetition of the concept of deliverance ("saviour" and "deliver them") underscores the certainty and comprehensiveness of God's saving act.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:20 employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as the verse foretells a future event involving divine intervention in Egypt. This prophecy functions as both a warning and a promise, revealing God's long-term plan. The terms "**sign**" and "**witness**" are rich in **Symbolism**, representing tangible proof and undeniable testimony of God's presence and power. They are not merely literal objects but stand for the profound impact of God's actions. The phrase "the LORD of hosts" is a powerful **Epithet**, emphasizing God's supreme authority and military might, assuring the reader of His ability to fulfill the prophecy. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the theme of deliverance through "saviour" and "deliver them" serves to emphasize the certainty and comprehensiveness of God's salvific act. The entire passage also contains elements of **Paradox**, as it presents a nation historically hostile to God as one that will ultimately cry out to Him and receive His salvation, subverting typical expectations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 19:20 offers profound theological insights into God's character and His universal redemptive plan. It challenges the notion of God's concern being limited solely to Israel, revealing His compassionate heart for all humanity, even those who have historically been His adversaries. The verse underscores that God hears the cries of the oppressed from any nation and is ready to respond with salvation when they turn to Him. This foreshadows a future where the knowledge of the LORD will extend beyond ethnic and national boundaries, demonstrating His desire for all peoples to enter into a relationship with Him. The promise of a "saviour, and a great one" also subtly points to the ultimate deliverer, a theme that finds its fullest expression in the New Testament.

* [Psalm 107:13-14](/psalms/107-13 "Psalm 107:13-14 - They Cried to the Lord in Their Trouble")
* [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20 "Zechariah 8:20-23 - Many Peoples and Strong Nations Will Come to Seek the Lord")
* [Malachi 1:11](/malachi/1-11 "Malachi 1:11 - My Name Will Be Great Among the Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 19:20 is a powerful reminder of God's boundless compassion and His active involvement in the affairs of all nations. It teaches us that no people group is beyond the reach of His redemptive love, and that even those who have been historically opposed to Him can experience His saving grace when they humble themselves and cry out in distress. For believers today, this verse encourages a global perspective on God's mission, prompting us to pray for nations in turmoil and to participate in sharing the good news of the ultimate "saviour" with all peoples. It offers hope that even in the darkest times of oppression and chaos, God is ready to intervene, send deliverance, and transform hearts, making His name known as a "sign and a witness" to His power and love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the prophecy concerning Egypt challenge my preconceived notions about God's love and redemptive plan for nations outside of Israel?**
* **In what ways might I be called to be a "sign and a witness" of the LORD's presence and power in my own sphere of influence?**
* **What "oppressors" (internal or external) might be driving me or others I know to cry out to the LORD for a "saviour" today?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "saviour, and a great one" mentioned in Isaiah 19:20?**

Answer: While the immediate fulfillment of this prophecy might have involved a historical figure who delivered Egypt from a specific oppression (e.g., a benevolent ruler or a military leader), the language used ("saviour," "great one") carries a deeper, more profound significance. The Hebrew word for "saviour" (H3467, _yâshaʻ_) is the same root from which the name "Jesus" (Yeshua) is derived, meaning "Yahweh saves." The phrase "a great one" (H7227, _rab_) further emphasizes the deliverer's authority and power. Theologically, this "saviour" is understood to point ultimately to Jesus Christ, who is the supreme and final deliverer for all humanity, offering salvation not just from political oppression but from sin and death. This messianic interpretation aligns with the broader prophetic trajectory of Isaiah, which consistently points to a future, ultimate deliverer.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 19:20, with its promise of a "saviour, and a great one," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the prophecy may have had immediate, partial fulfillments in historical deliverers for Egypt, the language transcends any single earthly figure, pointing to a deliverer of divine stature. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), embodies the perfect "saviour" sent by God, not just for one nation but for all humanity. His mission was to [seek and to save the lost](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost"), delivering people from the ultimate oppression of sin and death. The "sign and witness" of the LORD's power in Egypt foreshadows the supreme sign of God's love demonstrated in Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, which serves as an eternal witness to His redemptive power for all who believe. Just as Egypt cried out in distress and received a deliverer, so too does the New Testament invite all people, from every nation, to cry out to God for salvation, finding it perfectly and completely in [Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith"). His kingdom transcends national boundaries, uniting all who believe, fulfilling the vision of a people from every tribe and nation worshiping the [Lord God Almighty](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Great Multitude from Every Nation").

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

Psalms 50:15

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Titus 2:13

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Luke 2:11

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Isaiah 45:21

Tell ye, and bring [them] near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? [who] hath told it from that time? [have] not I the LORD? and [there is] no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; [there is] none beside me.

Isaiah 45:22

Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else.

Joshua 22:27

But [that] it [may be] a witness between us, and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD.

Joshua 22:28

Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should [so] say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say [again], Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it [is] a witness between us and you.