Isaiah 24:14

KJV

They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing for the majesty of the LORD, they shall cry aloud from the sea.

KJV (with Strong's)

They shall lift up {H5375} their voice {H6963}, they shall sing {H7442} for the majesty {H1347} of the LORD {H3068}, they shall cry aloud {H6670} from the sea {H3220}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They lift their voices, singing for joy, shouting from the west to honor ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

They raise their voices, they shout for joy; from the west they proclaim the majesty of the LORD.

American Standard Version

These shall lift up their voice, they shall shout; for the majesty of Jehovah they cry aloud from the sea.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 24:14, embedded within a prophetic passage detailing widespread global judgment, presents a striking and hopeful contrast by envisioning a future where a redeemed remnant, drawn from the most distant parts of the earth, will spontaneously erupt in joyous praise and song. This verse powerfully anticipates a time when the overwhelming majesty of the Lord will be universally recognized and celebrated, transforming the world's lament into a resounding chorus of adoration emanating from unexpected corners, specifically "from the sea."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 24:14 is situated within a distinct section of the book of Isaiah, often referred to as "Isaiah's Little Apocalypse" (chapters 24-27). This segment marks a significant shift from prophecies primarily concerning specific nations to a more universal, eschatological vision of God's judgment and ultimate salvation for the entire earth. The preceding verses, such as [Isaiah 24:1-13](/isaiah/24-1-13 "Isaiah 24:1-13 - Earth's Desolation and Judgment"), vividly describe widespread devastation, desolation, and the emptying of the earth due to humanity's rebellion against God's covenant and laws. Amidst this backdrop of divine wrath and universal lament, verse 14 introduces a dramatic pivot, presenting a hopeful counter-narrative where a scattered remnant, having endured the judgment, will respond not with despair but with an uninhibited outpouring of praise for the Lord's enduring majesty. This powerful juxtaposition highlights God's absolute sovereignty over both judgment and redemption.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Isaiah's prophecies primarily addressed the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, this "apocalyptic" section transcends immediate historical circumstances to speak of a cosmic and global judgment. The concept of "the sea" (Hebrew: _yam_) in the ancient Near East often referred to the vast, sometimes mysterious, regions beyond the known landmasses, including distant coastlands, islands, and by extension, the Gentile nations. For an Israelite audience, praise emanating "from the sea" would have been a profound and perhaps astonishing image, signifying that God's glory would be acknowledged not just by His covenant people, but by those considered outside the traditional boundaries of His direct revelation. This reflects a broader prophetic theme of God's universal dominion and His eventual inclusion of all peoples in His redemptive plan, a concept that would later be fully revealed in the New Covenant.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 24:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Majesty and Sovereignty**, asserting that despite widespread rebellion and judgment, God's inherent glory (_gâʼôwn_) remains undiminished and will ultimately be acknowledged by all creation. Secondly, it powerfully articulates the theme of **Universal Praise**, envisioning a future where adoration for the Lord transcends national and geographical boundaries, echoing the prophetic hope that [all the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord](/psalm/22-27 "Psalm 22:27 - Universal Worship"). Thirdly, the verse offers a profound message of **Hope Amidst Judgment**, demonstrating that even in the midst of the most severe divine reckoning, God preserves a remnant whose ultimate response is worship and joy, not despair. This serves as a beacon of assurance that God's redemptive purposes will prevail, culminating in a global chorus of praise for His ultimate triumph, as also seen in [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **lift up (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ_):** This primitive root verb signifies to raise, bear, or carry. In the context of voice, it implies an audible, strong, and uninhibited expression, a deliberate act of raising one's voice in a loud and clear manner. It suggests a collective, unified sound, not a whisper, but a powerful declaration of praise, indicating a profound and uncontainable response.
* **majesty (Hebrew, _gâʼôwn_):** Derived from a root meaning "to rise up," this noun denotes exaltation, dignity, splendor, and inherent glory. While it can sometimes refer to human pride or arrogance, when applied to the LORD (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh), it describes His magnificent and overwhelming greatness, His intrinsic glory that demands reverence and awe. It speaks to the awe-inspiring, unapproachable splendor of God's being and character.
* **sea (Hebrew, _yâm_):** This term literally refers to a large body of water, often the Mediterranean Sea. However, in prophetic literature, "the sea" frequently functions metaphorically to represent distant lands, maritime regions, islands, or the Gentile nations beyond the immediate land of Israel. Its use here powerfully conveys the idea of universal, global praise emanating from regions traditionally considered outside the direct sphere of Israelite worship, underscoring the expansive reach of God's redemptive plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing":** This opening phrase describes a spontaneous, enthusiastic, and collective outburst of vocal expression. "Lifting up their voice" (H5375, _nâsâʼ_ with H6963, _qôwl_) suggests a loud, unsuppressed sound, while "sing" (H7442, _rânan_, to shout for joy) specifies the nature of this vocalization as joyful, celebratory song. It indicates an uncontainable joy and recognition of God's profound worthiness.
* **"for the majesty of the LORD":** This clause provides the motivation and object of their praise. Their singing and shouting are not arbitrary but are a direct, fervent response to the overwhelming "majesty" (H1347, _gâʼôwn_) of Yahweh (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh), the covenant God of Israel. It is His inherent splendor, His sovereign power, and His glorious character that elicits this profound adoration and worship.
* **"they shall cry aloud from the sea":** This final phrase reinforces the widespread nature of this praise and specifies its surprising origin. "Cry aloud" (H6670, _tsâhal_, to gleam, be cheerful, or sound clear) emphasizes a clear, resonant shout of joy, a triumphant declaration. The crucial addition "from the sea" (H3220, _yâm_) signifies that this praise will not be confined to the land of Israel but will emanate from distant maritime regions, symbolizing the inclusion of Gentile nations or the most remote corners of the earth in this universal chorus of worship.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 24:14 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Antithesis** is prominently featured, as the joyous praise described in this verse stands in stark contrast to the widespread lament, desolation, and judgment depicted in the preceding verses of chapter 24. This dramatic shift highlights God's ultimate triumph over chaos and sin, transforming despair into adoration. **Imagery** is vividly used, painting a picture of voices rising from the "sea," evoking a sense of vastness and universality, suggesting that no corner of the earth will be untouched by this future praise. The phrases "lift up their voice" and "cry aloud" are examples of **Auditory Imagery**, emphasizing the loud, clear, and uninhibited nature of the worship. Furthermore, the verse uses **Symbolism**, where "the sea" serves as a powerful symbol for distant lands and Gentile nations, expanding the scope of God's future kingdom and the universal recognition of His glory beyond the traditional boundaries of Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 24:14 serves as a profound theological statement, asserting God's ultimate sovereignty over all creation, even amidst judgment and desolation. It proclaims that His inherent majesty will not only endure but will ultimately be universally acknowledged and celebrated by a redeemed people drawn from every corner of the earth. This vision underscores the eschatological hope that God's kingdom will triumph, transforming lament into a global chorus of worship, demonstrating His faithfulness to His covenant promises and His desire for all peoples to know and praise Him. It speaks to the ultimate purpose of creation: to bring glory to its Creator, culminating in a worldwide symphony of adoration.

* [Psalm 96:1-3](/psalm/96-1-3 "Sing to the Lord a New Song")
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")
* [Revelation 5:9-10](/revelation/5-9-10 "The Song of the Redeemed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 24:14 offers a powerful message of enduring hope and profound purpose for believers today. In a world often characterized by turmoil, despair, and widespread spiritual darkness, this verse reminds us that God's ultimate plan is one of universal recognition and worship of His majesty. It encourages us to look beyond immediate circumstances and embrace the grand narrative of God's redemptive work, which culminates in a global chorus of praise. This future reality should profoundly shape our present lives, calling us to live as anticipatory worshipers, lifting our voices in praise even when the world around us groans. It also compels us to actively participate in God's mission, sharing the good news so that more voices might join the future song of adoration, knowing that every act of worship, every declaration of His majesty, contributes to the fulfillment of this glorious prophecy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the contrast between judgment and praise in Isaiah 24:14 challenge or comfort your perspective on current global events and personal struggles?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to "lift up your voice" and "sing for the majesty of the LORD" in your daily life, even in challenging circumstances?**
* **In what practical ways can you contribute to the "cry aloud from the sea," inviting those from distant or unexpected places to join in God's praise?**
* **How does the assurance of God's ultimate triumph and universal worship impact your perseverance in faith and your outlook on the future during difficult times?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "Isaiah's Little Apocalypse" (Isaiah 24-27)?**

Answer: "Isaiah's Little Apocalypse" (chapters [Isaiah 24](/isaiah/24 "Isaiah 24 - The Lord's Devastation of the Earth") to [Isaiah 27](/isaiah/27 "Isaiah 27 - Israel's Restoration")) is a distinct prophetic section within the book of Isaiah that shifts from specific judgments against nations to a more universal, eschatological vision. It describes a worldwide judgment upon the earth due to humanity's rebellion against God's laws, followed by a glorious future of salvation, the defeat of God's enemies, and the restoration of His people. It uses vivid apocalyptic imagery to portray God's ultimate sovereignty over history and His final triumph, offering both warning and profound hope.

**Who are "they" who shall lift up their voice and sing in Isaiah 24:14?**

Answer: "They" refers to the remnant of humanity who survive the devastating judgments described in the preceding verses of [Isaiah 24](/isaiah/24 "Isaiah 24 - The Lord's Devastation of the Earth"). While the earth is laid waste and its inhabitants lament, a preserved group responds with praise. The phrase "from the sea" strongly suggests that this remnant includes not only Israelites but also people from distant Gentile nations, indicating a universal scope of those who will ultimately recognize and worship the Lord's majesty, demonstrating God's inclusive redemptive plan.

**What does "from the sea" signify in this prophetic context?**

Answer: In biblical prophecy, "the sea" (_yâm_) often symbolizes distant lands, maritime regions, islands, or the Gentile nations beyond the immediate land of Israel. Therefore, "from the sea" in [Isaiah 24:14](/isaiah/24-14 "Isaiah 24:14 - Universal Praise from the Sea") signifies that the praise and worship of the Lord will not be confined to the traditional boundaries of Israel but will extend to the most remote corners of the earth, including those peoples previously considered outside the covenant. It powerfully underscores the universal and global nature of God's future kingdom and the worship it will inspire from all peoples.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The universal praise envisioned in Isaiah 24:14, where voices "from the sea" cry aloud for the majesty of the LORD, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "majesty of the LORD" that elicits such adoration is fully embodied in Christ, who is the [radiance of God's glory and the exact imprint of his nature](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - Christ, the Radiance of God's Glory"). His first advent initiated the gathering of a people from every nation, as He commissioned His disciples to [make disciples of all nations](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission"), extending salvation beyond Israel. The "cry aloud from the sea" foreshadows the New Testament reality that salvation is for all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike, breaking down the dividing wall of hostility through His cross (e.g., [Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). Ultimately, the universal chorus of praise anticipated in Isaiah will culminate in the eschatological worship of the Lamb, where [every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow"), and a great multitude from [every nation, tribe, people, and language will stand before the throne and before the Lamb](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation"), crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" This future reality, centered on Christ, is the glorious culmination of Isaiah's prophetic vision.

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 54:1

¶ Sing, O barren, thou [that] didst not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, thou [that] didst not travail with child: for more [are] the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 33:11

The voice of joy, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the voice of them that shall say, Praise the LORD of hosts: for the LORD [is] good; for his mercy [endureth] for ever: [and] of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the LORD. For I will cause to return the captivity of the land, as at the first, saith the LORD.

Zephaniah 3:14

¶ Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.

Zephaniah 3:20

At that time will I bring you [again], even in the time that I gather you: for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 31:12

Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of the LORD, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.

Isaiah 35:10

And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

Isaiah 25:1

¶ O LORD, thou [art] my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful [things; thy] counsels of old [are] faithfulness [and] truth.