Isaiah 24:22

KJV

And they shall be gathered together, [as] prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall be gathered together {H622}, as prisoners {H616} are gathered {H626} in the pit {H953}, and shall be shut up {H5462} in the prison {H4525}, and after many {H7230} days {H3117} shall they be visited {H6485}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will be assembled like prisoners in a dungeon and shut up in prison to be punished many years.

Berean Standard Bible

They will be gathered together like prisoners in a pit. They will be confined to a dungeon and punished after many days.

American Standard Version

And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison; and after many days shall they be visited.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 24:22 describes the comprehensive and inescapable divine judgment upon both celestial and earthly rebellious powers. It vividly portrays their capture and confinement in a "pit" or "prison," symbolizing a state of utter powerlessness and inescapable punishment. The verse concludes with the crucial phrase "after many days shall they be visited," indicating that while their initial confinement is certain, their final reckoning or ultimate disposition will occur at a divinely appointed time in the future, underscoring God's perfect timing and the certainty of His ultimate justice.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 24:22 is a pivotal verse within the larger prophetic section often referred to as the "Little Apocalypse" (Isaiah 24-27). This section marks a significant shift in Isaiah's prophecy, moving from judgments against specific nations to a universal, eschatological judgment encompassing the entire earth and its inhabitants. The preceding verse, [Isaiah 24:21](/isaiah/24-21 "Isaiah 24:21 - God's Judgment on Heavenly and Earthly Powers"), explicitly identifies "they" as "the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth." This establishes the dual scope of God's judgment, targeting both spiritual, rebellious powers and human rulers who defy His authority. The imagery throughout [Isaiah 24](/isaiah/24 "Isaiah 24 - The Lord's Judgment on the Earth") depicts the earth being devastated, its foundations shaken, and its inhabitants suffering the consequences of their transgressions, leading directly to this ultimate divine reckoning and the subsequent establishment of God's reign on Mount Zion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the "Little Apocalypse" has eschatological overtones, its imagery draws from ancient Near Eastern concepts of divine judgment and cosmic order. The idea of a "pit" or "prison" for rebellious entities resonates with broader biblical and ancient world views concerning the fate of defeated deities or rebellious spiritual beings. Though not tied to a single historical event, the prophecy reflects Israel's understanding of Yahweh as the sovereign God over all creation, capable of judging even the most powerful human kings and unseen spiritual forces. The concept of a "visitation" for judgment was a familiar judicial concept, where a ruler or deity would "visit" to inspect, account for, or punish wrongdoing. This context emphasizes God's ultimate authority over all realms, transcending the immediate political or military conflicts of Isaiah's time to speak of a final, cosmic justice.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several major theological themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, asserting God's absolute authority over all creation, both visible and invisible, and His unwavering commitment to bringing all rebellion to account. Secondly, it highlights the **Universal Scope of Judgment**, demonstrating that no entity, whether supernatural "host of the high ones" or earthly "kings of the earth," is beyond God's reach or His justice, as also seen in passages like [Psalm 2:4-6](/psalms/2-4 "Psalm 2:4-6 - God's Derision of Rebellious Kings"). Thirdly, the imagery of "gathering in the pit" and "shutting up in the prison" vividly portrays **Confinement and Inescapable Punishment**, a theme echoed in other prophecies concerning the binding of evil powers, such as the binding of Satan for a period in [Revelation 20:1-3](/revelation/20-1 "Revelation 20:1-3 - Satan Bound for a Thousand Years"). Finally, the phrase "after many days shall they be visited" introduces the theme of **Deferred but Certain Justice**, indicating that the final disposition or ultimate judgment of these imprisoned entities is not immediate but will occur after a significant, divinely determined period, reinforcing the certainty of future accountability and God's perfect timing, as further elaborated in [2 Peter 3:8-9](/2_peter/3-8 "2 Peter 3:8-9 - God's Patience and Timing").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **gathered (Hebrew, _ʼâçaph'_):** This primitive root signifies collecting or assembling for any purpose, but also carries connotations of receiving, taking away, or removing. In this context, it denotes a forceful collection, indicating that the high ones and kings are not willingly assembling but are being forcibly rounded up by divine decree, much like a shepherd gathers sheep, but here, for judgment. The inclusion of the related noun _ʼăçêphâh_ (H626) in the KJV's "gathered together" reinforces the idea of a comprehensive collection or muster.
* **prison (Hebrew, _maçgêr'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to shut up," this term refers to a fastener, and by extension, a place of confinement such as a prison. It emphasizes the secure and inescapable nature of the incarceration. The use of this word, alongside "pit" (_bôwr_), paints a picture of a dark, inescapable dungeon, highlighting the utter loss of freedom and power for those confined.
* **visited (Hebrew, _pâqad'_):** This versatile primitive root means "to visit," but its meaning is highly dependent on context. While it can imply a benevolent visit, in contexts of judgment, it strongly connotes "to inspect," "to muster," "to hold accountable," or "to punish." Here, "shall they be visited" signifies a future divine reckoning or a final act of judgment, rather than a release or a compassionate intervention. It underscores the certainty of their ultimate fate.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit":** This clause describes the initial act of divine judgment. "They" refers to the "host of the high ones" and "kings of the earth" from the preceding verse. The imagery of being "gathered in the pit" evokes a sense of being rounded up and confined in a deep, inescapable dungeon or cistern, a common ancient form of imprisonment. The comparison to "prisoners" emphasizes their complete subjugation and loss of freedom, stripped of their former power and authority.
* **"and shall be shut up in the prison":** This phrase reinforces the theme of confinement and inescapable judgment. "Shut up" (from _çâgar_) implies a secure and irreversible sealing, ensuring no escape. The "prison" (from _maçgêr_) further solidifies the image of a place of secure detention, emphasizing the comprehensive and permanent nature of their initial imprisonment.
* **"and after many days shall they be visited":** This is the crucial temporal and judicial element of the verse. "After many days" indicates a significant, but unspecified, period of time will pass between their initial confinement and their final disposition. The term "visited" (_pâqad_), in this context of judgment, points to a future divine inspection, accountability, or ultimate punishment. It suggests that their initial imprisonment is not their final state, but a holding period before a conclusive judgment or reckoning.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 24:22 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its message of divine judgment. **Symbolism** is prominent, with the "pit" and "prison" serving as powerful symbols of inescapable confinement, utter powerlessness, and the complete reversal of fortune for those who once held power. These are not merely physical locations but represent a state of being under divine condemnation. The phrase "as prisoners are gathered" is a **simile**, drawing a clear comparison to a familiar human experience of capture and incarceration, making the abstract concept of judging celestial and earthly powers more relatable and impactful. The verse also utilizes **foreshadowing**, particularly with the phrase "after many days shall they be visited," which hints at a future, decisive act of God, building anticipation for the ultimate resolution of divine justice. This creates a sense of deferred but certain reckoning, a common motif in apocalyptic literature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 24:22 profoundly articulates God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, both visible and invisible, and His unwavering commitment to justice. It assures believers that despite the apparent triumph of evil or the delay of justice, every rebellious power, whether spiritual or human, will ultimately be brought to account. The initial confinement described in the verse serves as a precursor to a final, decisive judgment, demonstrating that God's plan unfolds according to His perfect timing, not ours. This passage provides immense comfort and hope, reminding us that no evil goes unpunished and that God will ultimately establish His righteous kingdom, bringing an end to all rebellion and suffering, as anticipated in the broader scope of biblical prophecy.

* [Revelation 20:1-3](/revelation/20-1 "Revelation 20:1-3 - Satan Bound for a Thousand Years")
* [2 Peter 2:4](/2_peter/2-4 "2 Peter 2:4 - Angels in Chains of Darkness")
* [Jude 1:6](/jude/1-6 "Jude 1:6 - Angels in Everlasting Chains")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 24:22 offers profound reassurance and a call to patient endurance for believers living in a world still marred by injustice and evil. It reminds us that God is ultimately in control, and His justice is not only certain but also comprehensive, extending to every realm of existence. When we witness the proliferation of wickedness, the apparent impunity of powerful oppressors, or the unseen spiritual battles, this verse anchors our hope in the truth that God holds all powers accountable. It encourages us to trust in His perfect timing, knowing that even if justice seems delayed from a human perspective, it is absolutely certain and will be executed at the appointed time. This truth empowers us to persevere in faith, to live righteously, and to pray for the hastening of God's kingdom, confident that the day of reckoning will surely come for all who defy Him, and ultimate peace will prevail under His righteous reign.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment on all rebellious powers, both spiritual and earthly, impact your perspective on current world events and injustices?**
* **What comfort or challenge do you find in the idea that justice may be "after many days" but is absolutely certain?**
* **In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust God's timing and sovereignty, even when circumstances seem chaotic or out of control?**

### FAQ

**Who are "they" that are gathered and shut up in Isaiah 24:22?**

Answer: The "they" in Isaiah 24:22 refers to the entities mentioned in the preceding verse, [Isaiah 24:21](/isaiah/24-21 "Isaiah 24:21 - God's Judgment on Heavenly and Earthly Powers"): "the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth." This signifies a dual judgment. "The host of the high ones" typically refers to rebellious spiritual powers, possibly fallen angels or demonic forces, who operate in the heavenly realms. "The kings of the earth upon the earth" refers to human rulers and earthly authorities who have rebelled against God and His righteous decrees. Thus, the judgment is comprehensive, encompassing both spiritual and human rebellion against divine sovereignty.

**What does "after many days shall they be visited" imply about the timing and nature of this judgment?**

Answer: The phrase "after many days shall they be visited" is crucial for understanding the timing and nature of the judgment. It indicates that the initial act of gathering and shutting up these rebellious powers in a "prison" is not their final state. Instead, it is a period of confinement, a holding pattern, before a subsequent, conclusive divine action. The term "visited" (Hebrew: _paqad_) in this context carries the strong connotation of a visitation for the purpose of accountability, inspection, or, more specifically, punishment. Therefore, it implies that after an unspecified, significant period of time, these confined entities will face their ultimate and final reckoning or judgment. This speaks to God's perfect timing and the certainty that justice, though potentially delayed from a human perspective, will ultimately be served. It aligns with other biblical prophecies of future judgment, such as the final judgment of Satan and his forces in [Revelation 20:7-10](/revelation/20-7 "Revelation 20:7-10 - The Final Judgment of Satan").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 24:22 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound significance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the verse speaks of the future judgment and confinement of rebellious powers, both spiritual and earthly, Christ's first advent initiated their defeat and His second advent will consummate it. He is the one who, through His death and resurrection, "disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). The "gathering" and "shutting up" of evil forces, which Isaiah prophesies, foreshadows Christ's victory over sin, death, and the devil. Though evil powers still exert influence in the world, their ultimate fate is sealed. The "after many days shall they be visited" points directly to Christ's return, when He will fully establish His kingdom, cast all His enemies into the eternal "pit" ([Revelation 20:10](/revelation/20-10 "Revelation 20:10 - The Devil Thrown into the Lake of Fire")), and reign supreme. His future visitation will not be for their release, but for their final, just condemnation, bringing to completion the cosmic judgment begun at the cross. Thus, Isaiah's prophecy assures us that the Lamb of God, who came to take away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), will also ultimately conquer every foe and establish a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - The New Heavens and New Earth")).

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

Zechariah 9:11

As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein [is] no water.

Isaiah 42:22

But this [is] a people robbed and spoiled; [they are] all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore.

Jeremiah 38:6

Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the son of Hammelech, that [was] in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon [there was] no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire.

Jeremiah 38:13

So they drew up Jeremiah with cords, and took him up out of the dungeon: and Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison.

Joshua 10:16

But these five kings fled, and hid themselves in a cave at Makkedah.

Joshua 10:17

And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found hid in a cave at Makkedah.

Ezekiel 38:8

After many days thou shalt be visited: in the latter years thou shalt come into the land [that is] brought back from the sword, [and is] gathered out of many people, against the mountains of Israel, which have been always waste: but it is brought forth out of the nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them.