Isaiah 22:21

KJV

And I will clothe him with thy robe, and strengthen him with thy girdle, and I will commit thy government into his hand: and he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will clothe {H3847} him with thy robe {H3801}, and strengthen {H2388} him with thy girdle {H73}, and I will commit {H5414} thy government {H4475} into his hand {H3027}: and he shall be a father {H1} to the inhabitants {H3427} of Jerusalem {H3389}, and to the house {H1004} of Judah {H3063}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will dress him in your robe, gird him with your sash of office, and invest him with your authority. He will be a father to the people living in Yerushalayim and to the house of Y'hudah.

Berean Standard Bible

I will clothe him with your robe and tie your sash around him. I will put your authority in his hand, and he will be a father to the dwellers of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah.

American Standard Version

and I will clothe him with thy robe, and strengthen him with thy girdle, and I will commit thy government into his hand; and he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 22:21 details the divine appointment of Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, to replace Shebna as the steward of the royal household in Judah. This verse describes God's direct action in bestowing upon Eliakim the insignia of office—the robe and girdle—and entrusting him with the government. Crucially, it defines his role as a benevolent, protective leader, acting as a "father" to the people of Jerusalem and the house of Judah, underscoring a shift from self-serving leadership to one characterized by divine authority and paternal care.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 22:21 is situated within a prophetic oracle concerning the "Valley of Vision," primarily focused on Jerusalem. The immediate preceding verses, [Isaiah 22:15-20](/isaiah/22-15 "Isaiah 22:15-20 - Prophecy Against Shebna"), announce the impending downfall and disgrace of Shebna, the current palace administrator (often translated as "steward" or "treasurer"). Shebna is condemned for his pride, self-aggrandizement (evidenced by his elaborate tomb), and likely for a pro-Egyptian foreign policy that contradicted God's will for Judah to trust in Him alone. In stark contrast to Shebna's removal, the Lord declares His intention to raise up Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, to fill this vital position. Verse 21, therefore, outlines the specific elements of this divine transfer of authority, detailing the symbolic investiture and the nature of Eliakim's new responsibilities, setting the stage for the even more significant declaration in [Isaiah 22:22](/isaiah/22-22 "Isaiah 22:22 - The Key of the House of David").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This prophecy likely takes place during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah (715-686 BC), a period marked by significant Assyrian military threats and political intrigue. The "steward of the house" (or "palace administrator") was a powerful and influential position in ancient Near Eastern monarchies, second only to the king. This individual managed the royal treasury, oversaw the palace administration, and often advised the king on matters of state. The "robe" (Hebrew: *kethoneth*) and "girdle" (Hebrew: *abnet*) were not merely clothing but specific insignia of high office, symbolizing dignity, authority, and readiness for service. The girdle, in particular, was used to secure the long robe, allowing for freedom of movement and signifying preparedness for active duty. The transfer of these items, along with the "government," would have been a public and unmistakable sign of a change in leadership, understood by all as a divinely sanctioned appointment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates God's **Sovereignty over Human Affairs**, demonstrating His direct involvement in raising up and bringing down leaders according to His divine purpose. The repeated "I will" underscores that this is not a political coup but a divine decree. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Stewardship and Accountable Leadership**. Eliakim is entrusted with significant power and responsibility, symbolizing the weighty charge given to those in authority. His role is not for personal gain but for the welfare of the people. Thirdly, the profound metaphor of Eliakim being a "father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah" introduces the theme of **Benevolent, Paternal Leadership**. This contrasts sharply with Shebna's self-serving rule and foreshadows the ideal leadership embodied by the coming Messiah, who is indeed called the [Everlasting Father](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace"). Finally, the passage speaks to **Divine Judgment and Restoration**, as an unworthy leader is removed, and a divinely chosen, righteous one is installed, signaling God's ongoing care for His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **father (Hebrew, _ʼâb'_):** This primitive word denotes a progenitor, but here it extends figuratively to a chief or principal. In [Isaiah 22:21](/isaiah/22-21 "Isaiah 22:21 - Eliakim's Paternal Role"), it signifies Eliakim's role as a benevolent, protective, and guiding leader, akin to a patriarch caring for his family. It implies a deep, nurturing responsibility beyond mere administration, emphasizing care, provision, and counsel for the people of Jerusalem and Judah.
* **strengthen (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** A primitive root meaning "to fasten upon," hence to seize, be strong, or courageous. In this context, it refers to God's active enablement of Eliakim, endowing him with the necessary might, resolve, and fortitude to fulfill his demanding administrative and pastoral duties. It signifies divine empowerment for effective and steadfast leadership, ensuring he is equipped for the challenges ahead.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** This primitive word, distinct from the closed fist, refers to the open hand, indicating power, means, or direction. When God commits government into Eliakim's "hand," it signifies the direct transfer of authority, dominion, and the executive capacity to administer the kingdom's affairs. It underscores that the power Eliakim wields is not self-derived but divinely delegated and entrusted.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will clothe him with thy robe":** This clause signifies God's direct act of investing Eliakim with the official garments of the palace steward, symbolizing the bestowal of dignity, authority, and the public recognition of his new high office. The "thy robe" refers to Shebna's robe, indicating a direct transfer of the position's insignia.
* **"and strengthen him with thy girdle":** Here, God promises to empower Eliakim with the girdle that belonged to the previous steward. The girdle, used to secure the long robe, symbolized readiness for action, strength, and stability. This signifies God's divine enablement and preparation of Eliakim for the rigorous demands of his new role, providing the necessary fortitude.
* **"and I will commit thy government into his hand":** This is a clear declaration of the transfer of administrative and ruling authority. "Thy government" refers to the dominion and power previously held by Shebna. God, through His sovereign will, directly entrusts this significant responsibility into Eliakim's care, indicating that his authority is divinely ordained and not merely a human appointment.
* **"and he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah":** This final clause defines the nature of Eliakim's leadership. Beyond mere administration, he is to embody a paternal role, offering protective, nurturing, and compassionate care to the people. This metaphor emphasizes a benevolent, responsible, and intimate relationship with those under his charge, contrasting sharply with the self-serving leadership of his predecessor.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 22:21 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the "robe" and "girdle" serving as powerful symbols of official status, dignity, authority, and preparedness for service. The act of "clothing" and "strengthening" with these items visually represents the divine investiture of power. The phrase "commit thy government into his hand" uses **metonymy**, where "hand" stands for the power, authority, and executive capacity associated with it. Most significantly, the declaration that Eliakim "shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah" is a profound **metaphor**, portraying a leader who provides benevolent care, protection, and guidance, much like a loving father. This metaphor elevates the concept of leadership beyond mere governance to one of deep, relational responsibility. Overarching these is the powerful use of **Divine Fiat**, expressed in the repeated "I will," which underscores God's absolute sovereignty and direct intervention in human affairs, establishing Eliakim's authority as divinely ordained.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 22:21 provides a profound theological statement on divine sovereignty and the nature of righteous leadership. It reveals that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations, raising up and bringing down leaders according to His perfect will. The transition from Shebna to Eliakim is not merely a political change but a divine act of judgment against pride and self-interest, and a gracious provision of a steward who embodies paternal care. This passage underscores that true authority is delegated by God and is to be exercised with integrity, strength, and a compassionate heart for the people. The "fatherly" aspect of Eliakim's role foreshadows the ultimate, perfect leadership of the Messiah, who would indeed be the true shepherd and protector of God's people.

* [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "The Everlasting Father")
* [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "The Key of David")
* [Matthew 20:25-28](/matthew/20-25 "Matthew 20:25-28 - Servant Leadership")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 22:21 offers timeless principles for both those in positions of authority and those under their care. For leaders, it serves as a powerful reminder that all true authority originates from God. Leadership is not a right to be exploited for personal gain, but a sacred trust to be exercised with integrity, strength, and a profound sense of responsibility. The call to be a "father" to the people demands a self-sacrificial, nurturing, and protective approach, prioritizing the well-being of the community over personal ambition. It challenges leaders to reflect God's own benevolent care for His children. For individuals, this passage encourages trust in God's sovereign hand, even when earthly leadership falters. It reminds us that God is actively working in history, raising up and empowering those He chooses, and that our ultimate hope rests not in human leaders, but in the divine plan. It also calls us to pray for our leaders, that they might embody the "fatherly" care and justice exemplified by Eliakim's divinely appointed role.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "fatherly" leadership challenge modern notions of power and authority?**
* **In what ways can individuals, even without formal leadership titles, embody a "fatherly" or "motherly" care for those around them?**
* **How does knowing that God sovereignly appoints leaders impact your perspective on current political and social challenges?**
* **What specific actions can you take to support or pray for leaders to exercise their authority with integrity and compassion?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the "robe" and "girdle" in ancient Israelite society?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, the "robe" (Hebrew: *kethoneth*) and "girdle" (Hebrew: *abnet*) were more than just clothing; they were potent symbols of office, dignity, and authority, particularly for those in high administrative or priestly roles. The robe signified the wearer's official status and honor, often being a distinctive garment that set them apart. The girdle, a belt used to secure the long robe, symbolized strength, readiness for action, and preparedness for service. To be "strengthened with a girdle" meant to be empowered and made ready for the duties of one's office. The transfer of these specific items from Shebna to Eliakim (as suggested by "thy robe" and "thy girdle") would have been a clear and public act of investiture, signifying the passing of authority and the divine appointment to a significant position of power within the kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 22:21, while describing an earthly administrative transfer, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Eliakim, divinely appointed and empowered to be a "father" to Judah, serves as a type of Christ, the true and eternal steward of God's house. Just as Eliakim was clothed with authority and strengthened for his role, Christ was fully invested with all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). The "government" committed to Eliakim's hand foreshadows the eternal dominion given to the Messiah, who "shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of His kingdom there will be no end" ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - Christ's Eternal Kingdom")). Most profoundly, Eliakim's role as a "father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to the house of Judah" points directly to Jesus, who is prophesied as the "Everlasting Father" ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Everlasting Father")). He provides ultimate protection, provision, and compassionate care for His spiritual children, gathering them into His eternal household. Furthermore, the subsequent verse, [Isaiah 22:22](/isaiah/22-22 "Isaiah 22:22 - The Key of the House of David"), which speaks of the "key of the house of David" being placed on Eliakim's shoulder, is directly applied to Christ in [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Jesus Holds the Key of David"), confirming Him as the one who truly holds the keys of authority, opening and shutting according to His divine will, and establishing His eternal kingdom.

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

Genesis 45:8

So now [it was] not you [that] sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.

Esther 8:2

And the king took off his ring, which he had taken from Haman, and gave it unto Mordecai. And Esther set Mordecai over the house of Haman.

Esther 8:15

¶ And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad.

Genesis 41:42

And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck;

Genesis 41:43

And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him [ruler] over all the land of Egypt.

1 Samuel 18:4

And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that [was] upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.