Isaiah 19:23

In that day shall there be a highway out of Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian shall come into Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians.

In that day {H3117} shall there be a highway {H4546} out of Egypt {H4714} to Assyria {H804}, and the Assyrian {H804} shall come {H935} into Egypt {H4714}, and the Egyptian {H4714} into Assyria {H804}, and the Egyptians {H4714} shall serve {H5647} with the Assyrians {H804}.

On that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Ashur. Ashur will come to Egypt and Egypt to Ashur, and Egypt will worship with Ashur.

In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria. The Assyrians will go to Egypt, and the Egyptians to Assyria. The Egyptians and Assyrians will worship together.

In that day shall there be a highway out of Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian shall come into Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria; and the Egyptians shall worship with the Assyrians.

Commentary

Context of Isaiah 19:23

Isaiah chapter 19 is a specific prophetic oracle concerning Egypt. While much of the chapter details God's judgment upon Egypt for its idolatry, internal strife, and economic collapse, it remarkably shifts towards a promise of future blessing and restoration. This verse, "In that day shall there be a highway out of Egypt to Assyria," marks a pivotal turning point, moving from condemnation to a vision of unprecedented peace and unity among nations that were historically hostile. The phrase "In that day" typically points to a future, often eschatological, time when God's ultimate purposes will be fulfilled.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Reconciliation and Peace Among Enemies: The most striking aspect of this prophecy is the portrayal of a "highway" between Egypt and Assyria. These two ancient empires were often rivals and oppressors of Israel, representing powers that were typically at odds. The establishment of a highway symbolizes open communication, free movement, and peaceful interaction, contrasting sharply with their usual enmity.
  • Universal Worship and Service to God: The verse states, "the Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians." The Hebrew word for "serve" ('abad) can mean to work, labor, or, significantly, to worship or serve God. In the context of a prophecy of peace and the subsequent verses (Isaiah 19:24 and Isaiah 19:25), this serving together implies a shared devotion to the Lord, unifying them under His sovereignty. This vision of nations formerly at war coming together to beat swords into plowshares is a recurring theme in prophetic literature.
  • God's Sovereign Plan for All Nations: This prophecy highlights God's ultimate plan to bring not only Israel but also the Gentile nations into a relationship with Him. It underscores His desire for global peace and a unified worship, demonstrating His authority over all peoples and their destinies.

Linguistic Insights

The term "highway" (Hebrew: mesillah) suggests more than just a simple road. It often refers to an elevated, well-constructed path, indicating a clear, unimpeded, and significant route. This emphasizes the ease and prominence of the future connection between Egypt and Assyria, moving beyond mere tolerance to genuine cooperation and fellowship.

Practical Application

Isaiah 19:23 offers profound hope and a challenge for believers today:

  • Hope for Global Peace: In a world continually marked by conflict and division, this verse provides a powerful vision of God's future kingdom, where even historical adversaries find reconciliation and common purpose under His rule. It reminds us that God's ultimate plan is for peace and unity.
  • Breaking Down Barriers: The prophecy challenges us to consider how we can contribute to reconciliation and peace in our own spheres, whether between individuals, communities, or even nations. If God can reconcile Egypt and Assyria, He can surely bridge divides that seem insurmountable to us.
  • The Universality of God's Grace: This passage reminds us that God's love and redemptive plan extend beyond any single nation or people group. It encourages a missionary heart, recognizing that God desires all peoples to come to know and serve Him, echoing the broader call for making disciples of all nations.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 11:16 (6 votes)

    And there shall be an highway for the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt.

  • Ephesians 3:6 (2 votes)

    That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

  • Ephesians 3:8 (2 votes)

    Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

  • Ephesians 2:18 (2 votes)

    For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.

  • Ephesians 2:22 (2 votes)

    In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

  • Isaiah 40:3 (2 votes)

    ¶ The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

  • Isaiah 40:5 (2 votes)

    And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see [it] together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].