Isaiah 19:21

KJV

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].

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} shall be known {H3045} to Egypt {H4714}, and the Egyptians {H4714} shall know {H3045} the LORD {H3068} in that day {H3117}, and shall do {H5647} sacrifice {H2077} and oblation {H4503}; yea, they shall vow {H5087} a vow {H5088} unto the LORD {H3068}, and perform {H7999} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI will make himself known to Egypt; on that day, the Egyptians will know ADONAI. They will worship him with sacrifices and offerings, they will make vows to ADONAI and keep them.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD will make Himself known to Egypt, and on that day Egypt will acknowledge the LORD. They will worship with sacrifices and offerings; they will make vows to the LORD and fulfill them.

American Standard Version

And Jehovah shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know Jehovah in that day; yea, they shall worship with sacrifice and oblation, and shall vow a vow unto Jehovah, and shall perform it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 19:21 presents a stunning prophetic vision of Egypt, a nation historically synonymous with idolatry and opposition to God's people, undergoing a profound spiritual transformation. It foretells a future day when the Egyptians will not only come to intimately know the LORD but will also genuinely worship Him through offerings and faithfully fulfilled vows, signifying a complete turning from their pagan past to devoted allegiance to the one true God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 19 is an "oracle concerning Egypt," a significant section within Isaiah's broader collection of prophecies against foreign nations (Isaiah 13-23). The chapter begins with pronouncements of severe judgment upon Egypt, depicting internal strife, economic collapse, and the drying up of the Nile, leading to national humiliation and distress (Isaiah 19:1-15). This bleak forecast, however, dramatically shifts in the latter half of the chapter (Isaiah 19:16-25), transitioning from judgment to a surprising promise of future conversion and blessing. Verse 21 stands as a pivotal statement within this hopeful turn, detailing the depth of Egypt's future spiritual awakening, which culminates in a vision where Egypt, along with Assyria, will become a blessing to the earth alongside Israel, forming a highway of peace and worship (Isaiah 19:23-25).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a dominant world power, renowned for its polytheistic religion, intricate pantheon of gods (like Ra, Osiris, Isis), and elaborate cultic practices. It was a civilization deeply steeped in idolatry, often serving as a symbol of bondage and oppression for Israel, as seen in the Exodus narrative. The Egyptians' spiritual practices were diametrically opposed to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh. Furthermore, Egypt frequently played a complex geopolitical role in the ancient Near East, sometimes as an ally, often as a rival or oppressor to Israel. This historical backdrop makes the prophecy of their conversion to Yahweh worship particularly astonishing, highlighting the radical nature of God's redemptive plan to transform even His historical adversaries.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Revelation and Universal Knowledge of God**, asserting that the LORD will make Himself known to a nation previously ignorant of Him, and they, in turn, will come to know Him experientially. This echoes the broader prophetic hope for a time when the [earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea](/isaiah/11-9 "Isaiah 11:9 - Knowledge of the LORD Covering the Earth"). Secondly, it highlights **Authentic Worship and Radical Transformation**. The mention of "sacrifice and oblation" and "vow a vow... and perform [it]" signifies a complete turning from pagan practices to the prescribed forms of worship given by God, demonstrating a profound internal and external shift in allegiance. This transformation points to God's power to change hearts and societies, even those deeply entrenched in idolatry. Lastly, it powerfully illustrates **God's Redemptive Plan for All Nations**, expanding the scope of His covenant promises beyond Israel to include Gentiles, even former enemies. This vision of Gentile inclusion prefigures the New Testament reality where [God has shown no partiality](/acts/10-34 "Acts 10:34 - God Shows No Partiality") and people from [every tribe and language and people and nation](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - Multitude from Every Nation") will worship Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Known (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** From H3045, this word signifies more than mere intellectual acquaintance; it denotes a deep, experiential, and relational knowledge. When applied to God, it implies an intimate understanding, recognition, and acknowledgment of His character, power, and sovereignty, leading to a personal relationship. For the Egyptians to "know the LORD" means a profound, life-altering encounter and submission to His authority.
* **Sacrifice (Hebrew, _zebach'_):** From H2077, this term refers to a slaughter, specifically the flesh of an animal offered as a sacrifice. It represents a blood offering, typically a burnt offering or peace offering, central to Israelite worship. Its inclusion here indicates a complete adoption of Yahwistic cultic practices, signifying a turning away from pagan rituals and an embrace of the true God's prescribed worship.
* **Oblation (Hebrew, _minchâh'_):** From H4503, this word denotes a donation or a sacrificial offering, usually bloodless and voluntary, such as grain or meal offerings. Paired with "sacrifice," it completes the picture of comprehensive and genuine worship according to the Mosaic Law, emphasizing both atonement (through blood sacrifice) and devotion/thanksgiving (through grain offerings).
* **Perform (Hebrew, _shâlam'_):** From H7999, this root means "to be safe," "completed," or "to reciprocate." In the context of vows, it means to fulfill, make good on, or render what was promised. This highlights the sincerity and faithfulness of the Egyptians' future commitment; their vows to the LORD will not be empty words but will be genuinely carried out, demonstrating lasting devotion.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD shall be known to Egypt":** This initial clause emphasizes God's sovereign initiative. It is the LORD who reveals Himself, breaking through centuries of idolatry and spiritual darkness to make His presence and identity evident to a nation that had not previously acknowledged Him. This implies a divine act of revelation, not merely human discovery.
* **"and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day":** This is the reciprocal response to God's revelation. The Egyptians will not just be passively aware of God; they will actively, experientially, and relationally "know" Him. "In that day" points to a specific, future eschatological time when this transformation will occur, marking a new era in their spiritual history.
* **"and shall do sacrifice and oblation;":** This clause details the practical manifestation of their newfound knowledge and relationship with the LORD. "Sacrifice" (zebach) and "oblation" (minchah) refer to the prescribed forms of worship in the Mosaic Law. Their engagement in these acts signifies a complete abandonment of their former pagan religious practices and a full adoption of the worship of Yahweh, demonstrating genuine conversion and allegiance.
* **"yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform [it].":** This final clause underscores the depth of their commitment and sincerity. Vowing a vow implies a solemn promise or dedication to God, and the emphasis on "perform [it]" highlights the faithfulness and integrity of their devotion. It indicates that their worship will be characterized by obedience, commitment, and lasting faithfulness, not just fleeting emotion.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 19:21 employs several powerful literary devices. **Prophecy** is the overarching device, presenting a future event as if it were already accomplished, lending certainty to God's word. The passage utilizes **Parallelism** in the phrases "the LORD shall be known to Egypt" and "the Egyptians shall know the LORD," creating a rhythmic emphasis on the mutual and reciprocal nature of this divine-human encounter. There is also a strong element of **Irony**, as Egypt, a historical oppressor and bastion of idolatry, is prophesied to become a worshipper of Yahweh, subverting expectations and highlighting God's boundless grace. Furthermore, the specific mention of "sacrifice and oblation" and "vow a vow, and perform it" serves as **Symbolism**, representing the concrete, tangible actions of true, committed worship, contrasting starkly with their former idolatrous rituals.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse stands as a powerful testament to God's universal sovereignty and His expansive redemptive plan, transcending national and ethnic boundaries. It reveals that God's desire for relationship and worship extends far beyond Israel, encompassing even nations historically hostile or steeped in idolatry. The prophecy of Egypt's conversion underscores the radical transformative power of God's grace, demonstrating that no people group is beyond the reach of His saving knowledge. It foreshadows the New Covenant era where the distinction between Jew and Gentile in worship is dissolved, and all who believe are brought into God's family, participating in true worship that is not confined to a specific place or people but is offered in spirit and truth. This vision of universal worship points to the ultimate culmination of God's kingdom, where people from every nation will acknowledge and adore Him.

* [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20 "Zechariah 8:20-23 - Nations Seeking the LORD")
* [Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34 "Acts 10:34-35 - God Shows No Partiality")
* [Romans 15:9-12](/romans/15-9 "Romans 15:9-12 - Gentiles Glorifying God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 19:21 offers profound encouragement and challenges for believers today. It powerfully reminds us that God's redemptive purposes are global, extending to every nation, tribe, and tongue. This should ignite within us a fervent hope for evangelism and missions, reinforcing the truth that no person or people group is beyond the transformative power of the Gospel, no matter how entrenched in sin or idolatry they may seem. Just as God purposed to reveal Himself to Egypt, He continues to work in the hearts of individuals and nations today, bringing light to the darkest corners of the world. Furthermore, the verse emphasizes that genuine knowledge of God leads to authentic, committed worship, characterized by active obedience and the fulfillment of our vows to Him. It calls us to examine the sincerity of our own devotion, ensuring that our faith is not merely intellectual assent but is expressed through tangible acts of worship, service, and faithfulness to the commitments we make to the LORD, reflecting a transformed heart and life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Egypts" (places or people groups steeped in spiritual darkness or opposition to God) in our world today do we need to pray for, believing in God's transformative power?**
* **How does the prophecy of Egypt's future worship challenge any ethnocentric or exclusive views we might unknowingly hold about God's redemptive plan?**
* **In what ways can we, like the Egyptians in this prophecy, demonstrate a deeper, more committed "knowing" of the LORD through our daily lives and acts of worship?**

### FAQ
**Does this prophecy mean that modern-day Egypt will literally convert to Christianity or Judaism?**

Answer: While some interpreters understand this prophecy in a literal sense, pointing to the growth of Christianity in Egypt (Coptic Church) or a future mass conversion, many view it primarily through a theological lens. The prophecy signifies a profound spiritual transformation and alignment with the one true God, rather than a specific modern religious or political conversion. It speaks to the breaking down of spiritual strongholds and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan, ultimately fulfilled in the New Covenant through Christ. The emphasis is on a genuine turning to the LORD and authentic worship, which has spiritual implications that transcend mere national identity or a specific religious label in the modern sense. The "Egyptians" here represent those who were once alienated from God but are now brought into a saving relationship with Him, participating in true worship.

**What is the significance of "sacrifice and oblation" in a post-Christ context, since animal sacrifices are no longer practiced?**

Answer: In the Old Testament, "sacrifice and oblation" (Hebrew: `zebach` and `minchâh`) were the prescribed forms of worship, symbolizing atonement, thanksgiving, and dedication to God. In the New Covenant, these literal practices are fulfilled and superseded by the [once-for-all perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice"). Therefore, the prophecy's mention of these acts for Egypt should be understood symbolically. It represents a genuine turning to God and offering Him true spiritual worship, which includes lives of obedience, praise, thanksgiving, and service. As believers today, our "sacrifices" are spiritual: offering our bodies as [living sacrifices](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices"), offering [a sacrifice of praise](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15 - Sacrifice of Praise"), and giving generously. The essence is authentic devotion and commitment to the LORD, not the literal reintroduction of ancient rituals.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 19:21 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The prophecy of Egypt knowing the LORD and offering true worship points directly to the New Covenant era inaugurated by Christ, where God's redemptive plan expands to embrace all nations. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offered the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice, rendering the Old Testament animal sacrifices obsolete. Through His atoning work, the way was opened for Gentiles, including those from lands historically opposed to God like Egypt, to be reconciled to God and brought into His family. The "knowing" of the LORD by the Egyptians is fulfilled in the saving knowledge of God through faith in Christ, as the Holy Spirit enables believers from every background to [worship God in spirit and truth](/john/4-23 "John 4:23 - Worship in Spirit and Truth"). The inclusion of Gentiles, once "strangers to the covenants of promise," into the commonwealth of Israel and the household of God (as described in [Ephesians 2:11-22](/ephesians/2-11 "Ephesians 2:11-22 - Gentiles and Jews United in Christ")) is the grand fulfillment of this vision. Ultimately, Isaiah's prophecy anticipates the glorious reality seen in Revelation, where a [multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation") stands before the throne, offering unified worship to God and the Lamb, demonstrating that Christ's kingdom truly knows no earthly boundaries.

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

Isaiah 11:9

They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

Malachi 1:11

For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name [shall be] great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense [shall be] offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name [shall be] great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.

Jonah 1:16

Then the men feared the LORD exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice unto the LORD, and made vows.

Isaiah 44:5

One shall say, I [am] the LORD'S; and another shall call [himself] by the name of Jacob; and another shall subscribe [with] his hand unto the LORD, and surname [himself] by the name of Israel.

1 Peter 2:5

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Habakkuk 2:14

For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

Isaiah 37:20

Now therefore, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou [art] the LORD, [even] thou only.