Isaiah 22:23

KJV

And I will fasten him [as] a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious throne to his father's house.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will fasten {H8628} him as a nail {H3489} in a sure {H539} place {H4725}; and he shall be for a glorious {H3519} throne {H3678} to his father's {H1} house {H1004}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I will fasten him firmly in place like a peg, so that he will become a seat of honor for his clan.

Berean Standard Bible

I will drive him like a peg into a firm place, and he will be a throne of glory for the house of his father.

American Standard Version

And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a throne of glory to his father’s house.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 22:23 is a profound prophetic declaration concerning the divine appointment and enduring stability of Eliakim, who is elevated to a position of immense authority and trust in Judah. This verse, set within a broader prophecy against Jerusalem, portrays Eliakim as a divinely secured "nail in a sure place" and a "glorious throne" for his ancestral house. It underscores God's sovereign hand in establishing leadership, ensuring a steadfast foundation, and bringing honor to those He appoints, while also serving as a significant foreshadowing of the ultimate, unwavering authority of the Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within the "Burden of the Valley of Vision" [Isaiah 22](/isaiah/22 "Isaiah 22 - The Burden of the Valley of Vision"), a specific prophetic oracle primarily directed at Jerusalem. The chapter opens with a lament over the city's revelry in the face of impending judgment, contrasting their misplaced confidence with God's true assessment. The immediate preceding verses [Isaiah 22:15-19](/isaiah/22-15-19 "Isaiah 22:15-19 - Judgment on Shebna") detail God's pronouncement of judgment and removal upon Shebna, the unfaithful steward (or majordomo) of King Hezekiah's household, due to his pride and self-aggrandizement. Following Shebna's disgrace, verses 20-23 introduce Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, as God's chosen successor, describing his elevation to a position of immense responsibility and authority. [Isaiah 22:22](/isaiah/22-22 "Isaiah 22:22 - The Key of the House of David"), in particular, speaks of giving Eliakim "the key of the house of David," signifying supreme administrative power, which sets the stage for the imagery of stability and glory in verse 23. The chapter concludes with a warning [Isaiah 22:24-25](/isaiah/22-24-25 "Isaiah 22:24-25 - The Transience of Eliakim's Position") that even Eliakim's position, though divinely appointed, would eventually face challenges, highlighting the transient nature of human authority in contrast to God's ultimate sovereignty.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in [Isaiah 22](/isaiah/22 "Isaiah 22 - The Burden of the Valley of Vision") is generally dated to the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah (c. 715-686 BC), likely during a period of Assyrian threat, possibly around Sennacherib's invasion of Judah in 701 BC. Jerusalem, referred to as the "Valley of Vision," was the capital of Judah, a city often besieged and facing political turmoil. The role of the "steward" or "master of the household" (Hebrew: `soken`) was a highly influential position in ancient Near Eastern royal courts, second only to the king. This official managed the royal treasury, administered the palace, and often acted as the king's chief advisor. The imagery of a "nail" (Hebrew: `yated`) refers to a sturdy peg, often made of wood or metal, driven into a wall or tent pole. These pegs were crucial in ancient homes and tents for hanging valuable items, weapons, or even supporting structures, symbolizing reliability, stability, and the capacity to bear significant weight. The "throne" (`kisse'`) represents authority, dignity, and a seat of power, underscoring the public and influential nature of Eliakim's new role within the context of the Davidic monarchy.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme in Isaiah 22:23 is **Divine Sovereignty and Appointment**, as God explicitly states, "I will fasten him." This highlights God's active involvement in establishing human leadership and His ultimate control over the destiny of nations and individuals. Closely related is the theme of **Stability and Reliability**, conveyed through the metaphor of a "nail in a sure place." Eliakim's position is not based on human merit or political maneuvering but on God's secure foundation, implying trustworthiness and permanence in his role as a support for his people. The concept of **Glory and Honor** is also central, as Eliakim is to be "a glorious throne to his father's house," signifying that his divinely sanctioned authority will bring dignity and distinction to his lineage and, by extension, to the nation of Judah. Furthermore, this passage carries significant **Messianic Foreshadowing**. The preceding 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," is directly quoted in [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Christ with the Key of David"), explicitly linking Eliakim's stewardship to the ultimate authority of Jesus Christ. This connection suggests that Eliakim serves as a type, pointing to the true and eternal steward of God's kingdom, who provides ultimate stability and glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **nail (Hebrew, _yâthêd'_):** From an unused root meaning "to pin through or fast," this word refers to a peg, nail, paddle, or stake. In the context of Isaiah 22:23, it denotes a sturdy, firmly fixed object capable of bearing significant weight. It symbolizes reliability, support, and a secure anchor, indicating that Eliakim's position will be foundational and trustworthy, providing stability for his "father's house" (his family line and, by extension, the nation).
* **sure (Hebrew, _ʼâman'_):** This primitive root means "to build up or support," "to foster as a parent or nurse," and figuratively "to render (or be) firm or faithful," "to trust or believe," "to be permanent or quiet." When used in the phrase "sure place" (`mâqôwm neʼeman`), it emphasizes a location that is trustworthy, established, and unshakeable. It underscores the divine guarantee behind Eliakim's appointment, signifying that his position is not precarious but divinely secured and reliable.
* **glorious (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_):** Rarely `kâbôd`, this word comes from a root meaning "weight," but is used figuratively in a good sense to mean "splendor" or "copiousness." It translates to "glorious," "glory," or "honor(-able)." Here, it indicates that Eliakim's role will not only be stable but also bring immense honor, dignity, and splendor to his family. His stewardship will be a source of pride and a testament to God's favor, reflecting divine majesty in his human office.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will fasten him [as] a nail in a sure place":** This clause reveals God's direct, sovereign action ("I will fasten"). The metaphor of the "nail" (a sturdy peg) signifies Eliakim's role as a fixed, reliable, and supportive anchor. The "sure place" emphasizes the divine guarantee of his stability and trustworthiness. This means Eliakim's authority and position are not temporary or subject to human whims but are divinely established and secured, capable of bearing the weight of responsibility for his people and providing a steadfast foundation for the "house" he serves.
* **"and he shall be for a glorious throne to his father's house":** This second clause describes the outcome and purpose of Eliakim's divine appointment. His steadfastness will translate into a source of honor, dignity, and authority ("glorious throne") for his entire lineage and, by extension, for the nation of Judah. The "throne" here is not necessarily a literal kingly seat, but rather a symbol of the authority, prominence, and respect that Eliakim's stewardship will bring to his family and people, reflecting God's blessing upon them through his faithful service and demonstrating the splendor of a divinely appointed office.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 22:23 is rich with **Metaphor** and **Symbolism**. The central metaphor is that of Eliakim as a "nail in a sure place," which symbolizes his divinely ordained stability, reliability, and capacity to support. Just as a strong peg firmly driven into a wall provides a secure anchor for hanging valuable items, Eliakim is presented as a trustworthy and enduring support for his "father's house." This metaphor is further extended by portraying him as a "glorious throne," a **Symbol** of authority, honor, and a source of dignity. The "throne" here transcends a mere seat; it embodies the power, prestige, and stability that Eliakim's leadership will confer upon his family and the nation. The phrase "I will fasten him" highlights **Divine Fiat** or divine declaration, emphasizing God's direct, sovereign, and intentional action in establishing Eliakim's position, underscoring that this appointment is not by human design but by divine will.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 22:23 powerfully articulates the theological truth of God's meticulous involvement in human affairs, particularly in the appointment and establishment of leadership. It underscores that true stability and authority derive not from human strength or political maneuvering, but from divine decree and steadfastness. Eliakim's elevation serves as a tangible example of God raising up faithful stewards in contrast to the unfaithful. More profoundly, this passage carries significant typological weight, foreshadowing the ultimate, perfect, and eternal steward and foundation: Jesus Christ. Just as Eliakim was to be a source of stability and glory for his house, Christ is the ultimate "sure place" and "glorious throne" for all who are part of God's spiritual house, the Church. He is the unwavering foundation upon which God's kingdom rests, providing eternal security and honor.

* [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Christ Holds the Key of David")
* [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ Our Only Foundation")
* [Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets, Christ Jesus Himself Being the Cornerstone")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 22:23 offers profound encouragement and a call to trust in God's sovereign plan, even amidst instability and leadership failures. In a world often characterized by shifting allegiances, unreliable leaders, and uncertain foundations, this verse reminds us that God is actively at work, establishing those He chooses and securing their positions for His purposes. For believers, the ultimate "nail in a sure place" is not a human figure like Eliakim, but Jesus Christ Himself. He is the unwavering foundation upon whom we can build our lives, our hopes, and our eternal destiny. His authority is absolute, His faithfulness is perfect, and His kingdom is everlasting. We are called to place our complete trust in Him, knowing that He provides true stability and brings ultimate glory to His Father's house. This should inspire us to live with confidence, to faithfully steward the responsibilities God has given us, and to seek to bring honor to His name in all that we do, recognizing that our security is found solely in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of a "nail in a sure place" challenge your understanding of stability and security in your own life?**
* **In what ways can you see God's hand in establishing leaders or providing stability in your community or nation, even when it's not immediately obvious?**
* **How does recognizing Jesus as the ultimate "glorious throne" influence your trust in His authority and your commitment to His kingdom?**

### FAQ

**What does "nail in a sure place" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "nail in a sure place" is a powerful metaphor signifying stability, reliability, and permanence. In ancient Near Eastern homes and tents, a "nail" (Hebrew: `yated`) was a sturdy peg driven firmly into a wall or ground to support heavy and valuable items. Thus, Eliakim, the subject of this prophecy, is portrayed as a divinely appointed and secured anchor, a trustworthy foundation upon whom the "father's house" (his family and, by extension, the nation of Judah) could depend. It emphasizes that his position and authority are not precarious but are divinely established and unshakeable, providing a reliable source of support and order for the people.

**How does Isaiah 22:23 relate to the broader Davidic Covenant?**

Answer: Isaiah 22:23, particularly when read in conjunction with the preceding verse, [Isaiah 22:22](/isaiah/22-22 "Isaiah 22:22 - The Key of the House of David"), strongly relates to the Davidic Covenant established in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). The Davidic Covenant promised an eternal dynasty and an enduring kingdom through David's lineage. Eliakim's appointment as a stable and glorious figure, given "the key of the house of David," signifies God's ongoing faithfulness to this covenant, even when human stewards fail (like Shebna). While Eliakim's role was significant, he serves as a type, pointing forward to the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant in Jesus Christ, who is the true and eternal heir to David's throne, providing an everlasting "sure place" and "glorious throne" for God's people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 22:23 finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Eliakim was a temporary and imperfect human steward, divinely appointed to bring stability to the house of Judah, Christ is the eternal and flawless "nail in a sure place." He is the very foundation upon which God's spiritual house, the Church, is built, as declared in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ Our Only Foundation"), "For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." The "key of the house of David" mentioned in [Isaiah 22:22](/isaiah/22-22 "Isaiah 22:22 - The Key of the House of David") is explicitly attributed to Christ in [Revelation 3:7](/revelation/3-7 "Revelation 3:7 - Christ with the Key of David"), signifying His supreme and unchallengeable authority over God's kingdom. He is the one who "opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one will open." Furthermore, Christ is the "glorious throne" not just for a human lineage, but for the entire heavenly and earthly family of God. As the Son of God, He sits on the eternal throne, bringing ultimate glory and honor to His Father's house ([Hebrews 1:8](/hebrews/1-8 "Hebrews 1:8 - The Son's Eternal Throne")). In Him, all things hold together ([Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ, the Sustainer of All Things")), providing the unwavering stability and eternal security that no human leader could ever offer. He is the ultimate, permanent, and glorious anchor for all who trust in Him.

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

Job 36:7

He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous: but with kings [are they] on the throne; yea, he doth establish them for ever, and they are exalted.

Ezra 9:8

And now for a little space grace hath been [shewed] from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage.

Zechariah 10:4

Out of him came forth the corner, out of him the nail, out of him the battle bow, out of him every oppressor together.

1 Samuel 2:8

He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, [and] lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set [them] among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth [are] the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.

Ecclesiastes 12:11

The words of the wise [are] as goads, and as nails fastened [by] the masters of assemblies, [which] are given from one shepherd.

Luke 22:29

And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me;

Luke 22:30

That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.