Isaiah 24:23

KJV

Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then the moon {H3842} shall be confounded {H2659}, and the sun {H2535} ashamed {H954}, when the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} shall reign {H4427} in mount {H2022} Zion {H6726}, and in Jerusalem {H3389}, and before his ancients {H2205} gloriously {H3519}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the moon will be confused and the sun ashamed, for ADONAI-Tzva'ot will rule on Mount Tziyon and in Yerushalayim, with his glory manifest to the rulers of his people.

Berean Standard Bible

The moon will be confounded and the sun will be ashamed; for the LORD of Hosts will reign on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, and before His elders with great glory.

American Standard Version

Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed; for Jehovah of hosts will reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem; and before his elders shall be glory.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 24:23 presents a vivid prophetic vision of the Lord's ultimate, glorious reign following a period of cosmic judgment and earthly desolation. It depicts a future where the celestial bodies, traditionally revered or seen as ultimate sources of light, will pale into insignificance and be "confounded" and "ashamed" in the overwhelming presence of God's manifest glory. This verse culminates the apocalyptic section of Isaiah, declaring that the Sovereign Lord of hosts will establish His eternal kingdom in Mount Zion and Jerusalem, reigning with unparalleled splendor before His chosen elders, signifying the complete and undeniable triumph of divine authority over all creation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 24:23 concludes a significant prophetic section often termed "Isaiah's Apocalypse" (chapters 24-27), which details a sweeping, global judgment upon the earth. Chapters 24-26 describe a universal devastation, portraying the earth as being "emptied" and "laid waste" due to humanity's rebellion against God's law [Isaiah 24:1-6](/isaiah/24-1 "Isaiah 24:1-6 - Earth's Desolation Due to Transgression"). This judgment is not limited to Israel but encompasses all nations, leading to widespread fear, desolation, and the collapse of human institutions. Amidst this backdrop of cosmic upheaval and human despair, verse 23 serves as the climactic resolution, shifting from the darkness of judgment to the radiant dawn of God's eternal kingdom. It provides the ultimate hope and purpose behind the preceding judgments, indicating that the chaos is a prelude to the establishment of divine order and sovereignty.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery of the sun and moon being "confounded" and "ashamed" holds particular significance within the ancient Near Eastern context. Many cultures, including those surrounding Israel, practiced astral worship, deifying celestial bodies or associating them with powerful deities. For example, the Babylonian and Canaanite pantheons often included sun and moon gods. Isaiah's prophecy directly confronts these pagan beliefs, asserting the absolute supremacy of Yahweh, the God of Israel, over all created entities, including those worshipped as divine. The prophecy of God reigning in "Mount Zion, and in Jerusalem" also taps into deeply rooted Israelite hopes concerning the restoration of the Davidic monarchy and the establishment of God's presence in His holy city, echoing promises found in texts like [Psalm 2:6](/psalm/2-6 "Psalm 2:6 - God's King on Zion"). This vision would have offered profound comfort and assurance to a people who often faced the threat of powerful empires and the temptation of idolatry.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, emphasizing that God alone holds ultimate authority over all creation, including the most powerful celestial bodies. Their "shame" highlights their created nature and subservience to the Creator. Secondly, it points to **Eschatological Hope and the Kingdom of God**, providing a vision of God's future, glorious reign on earth, centered in Jerusalem. This reign will be characterized by unparalleled splendor and righteousness, bringing an end to all earthly rebellion and suffering. Thirdly, the theme of **Cosmic Reversal and New Creation** is evident, where the established order of the heavens gives way to a new reality illuminated by God's own glory, foreshadowing later New Testament descriptions of a new heaven and new earth where the Lamb is the light [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God's Glory as the Light of New Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **confounded (Hebrew, _châphêr'_):** This primitive root means "to blush; figuratively, to be ashamed, disappointed; causatively, to shame, reproach." In the context of the moon, it signifies a profound humiliation or a paling into insignificance. The moon, a source of light in the night, will be utterly overshadowed and rendered without purpose or glory in the presence of the Lord's infinite radiance, experiencing a profound sense of inadequacy.
* **sun (Hebrew, _chammâh'_):** Derived from a word meaning "heat," this term refers to the sun, the most prominent and powerful celestial body, often associated with life-giving energy and, in pagan cultures, with divinity. Its inclusion alongside the moon emphasizes that even the greatest natural phenomena, revered by some, will be utterly diminished and "ashamed" when confronted with the unapproachable glory of the Creator, highlighting His absolute preeminence.
* **ancients (Hebrew, _zâqên'_):** Meaning "old; aged, ancient (man), elder(-est), senator," this word refers to venerable elders or leaders. In this prophetic context, "his ancients" likely refers to God's chosen, faithful people—perhaps the patriarchs, prophets, or a council of glorified saints—who will witness and participate in His glorious reign. Their presence underscores the communal and relational aspect of God's kingdom, where His people share in His glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed":** This dramatic opening sets the stage for a cosmic shift. The celestial bodies, which govern day and night and were often objects of worship in ancient cultures, are depicted as experiencing profound humiliation. Their natural brilliance and perceived authority are utterly eclipsed by a superior, divine glory, rendering them insignificant and exposed in their created limitations.
* **"when the LORD of hosts shall reign":** This clause introduces the central event that precipitates the cosmic humiliation: the enthronement and active dominion of God. The title "LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) emphasizes God's omnipotence as the commander of heavenly armies and all creation, highlighting His irresistible power and sovereign right to rule. His reign is the definitive event that reorders all reality.
* **"in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem":** This specifies the earthly locus of God's reign. Mount Zion and Jerusalem represent the spiritual and political heart of Israel, the place God chose for His dwelling. This indicates a literal and spiritual establishment of God's kingdom on earth, where His presence and authority will be visibly and undeniably manifested from His holy city, fulfilling ancient promises of restoration and divine presence.
* **"and before his ancients gloriously":** This final phrase describes the manner and witnesses of God's reign. "Gloriously" (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_) implies immense weight, splendor, honor, and copiousness, signifying the radiant majesty of God's presence and authority. The reign is not solitary but witnessed "before his ancients," suggesting a council of revered elders or glorified saints who participate in and bear witness to the King's unparalleled splendor, sharing in the honor of His presence.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 24:23 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Anthropomorphism**. The **moon** and **sun** symbolize the pinnacle of created light and, by extension, all created power, human authority, and even pagan deities. Their being "confounded" and "ashamed" is an **Anthropomorphic** depiction, attributing human emotions of embarrassment and humility to inanimate celestial bodies, vividly illustrating their absolute subordination to God. This also functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of God's glory by contrasting it with the perceived grandeur of the sun and moon. The phrase "LORD of hosts" is a powerful **Epithet**, underscoring God's military might and sovereign control over all forces. The entire verse functions as a **Prophetic Vision**, painting a future reality that transcends the present, using vivid imagery to convey profound theological truths about God's ultimate triumph and the establishment of His kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 24:23 is a profound statement on divine eschatology, asserting God's ultimate and undeniable sovereignty over all creation. It posits that the current cosmic order, with its seemingly unassailable celestial bodies, is temporary and will ultimately yield to the infinitely superior glory of the Creator. This vision provides a theological framework for understanding God's ultimate purpose in history: to establish His kingdom fully and perfectly on earth, centered in Jerusalem, where His presence will be the sole source of light and authority. The humiliation of the sun and moon serves as a powerful theological declaration against idolatry and any misplaced worship of creation over the Creator, reinforcing the truth that only God is worthy of absolute reverence and adoration.

This prophetic vision resonates with other biblical passages that describe God's ultimate reign and the new creation:
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")
* [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdoms of the World Become the Kingdoms of Our Lord")
* [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God's Glory Illuminates the New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 24:23 offers profound hope and a vital shift in perspective for believers navigating a world often characterized by chaos, uncertainty, and the allure of temporal powers. It reminds us that despite the apparent strength and brilliance of human achievements, political systems, or even natural forces, there is an ultimate reality where God's sovereignty reigns supreme. This vision calls us to anchor our hope not in the fleeting glories of this world, but in the eternal, unshakeable kingdom of God, which will one day be fully established. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing God's glory and purposes above all else, knowing that His reign will bring perfect justice, peace, and light. In times of personal or global turmoil, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is ultimately in control, and His glorious purposes will prevail, inviting us to trust in His sovereign plan and to orient our lives around His coming kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of the sun and moon being "confounded" and "ashamed" challenge your own perspectives on what holds ultimate power or significance in the world?**
* **In what ways does the promise of the "LORD of hosts" reigning in Zion and Jerusalem offer comfort or hope in your current circumstances?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live more consciously in light of God's ultimate, glorious reign, rather than being swayed by the temporary realities of this world?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "moon" and "sun" being confounded and ashamed?**

Answer: The imagery of the moon and sun being "confounded" and "ashamed" is highly symbolic. In ancient cultures, these celestial bodies were often revered or even worshipped as deities, or they represented the highest natural powers. Isaiah's prophecy declares that in the overwhelming presence of God's infinite glory and sovereign reign, even these most brilliant and powerful created entities will be utterly eclipsed, their light paling, and their perceived significance diminished to nothing. This signifies God's absolute supremacy over all creation, including anything that humanity might elevate or worship, emphasizing that only the Creator is worthy of ultimate reverence. It foreshadows a new cosmic order where God's glory is the only necessary light, as seen in [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God's Glory Illuminates the New Jerusalem").

**Who are "his ancients" mentioned in the verse?**

Answer: The phrase "his ancients" (Hebrew: *zâqên*) refers to venerable elders or leaders. In this prophetic context, it most likely signifies God's faithful people, perhaps the patriarchs, prophets, or a glorified assembly of saints who will be present with God when He establishes His glorious reign. Their presence indicates that God's kingdom will not be a solitary reign but one witnessed and participated in by His chosen ones, who will share in the honor and splendor of His ultimate triumph. This concept aligns with the idea of believers reigning with Christ, as mentioned in passages like [Revelation 20:6](/revelation/20-6 "Revelation 20:6 - Priests of God and of Christ, and Reign with Him").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 24:23 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the "LORD of hosts" in human flesh. While Isaiah prophesies a future, glorious reign in Jerusalem, the New Testament reveals that this reign began with Christ's first advent and will culminate in His second coming. Jesus, as the true light of the world, causes all earthly and even cosmic lights to dim in comparison, just as the sun and moon are "confounded" before the Lord's glory. His incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension establish His authority as King of kings and Lord of lords, fulfilling the promise that the Lord shall reign. The "mount Zion" and "Jerusalem" of Isaiah's prophecy are ultimately realized not just as earthly locations, but also in the spiritual reality of the Church, the New Jerusalem, where Christ reigns in the hearts of believers [Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - You Have Come to Mount Zion"). The "ancients" who witness His glorious reign foreshadow the redeemed saints from every tribe and nation who will gather before the Lamb, sharing in His glory and reigning with Him eternally [Revelation 5:9-10](/revelation/5-9 "Revelation 5:9-10 - Worthy Is the Lamb"). Thus, Isaiah 24:23 is a majestic prefigurement of Christ's cosmic and eternal dominion, where His glory will illuminate all things, and His kingdom will have no end [Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - His Kingdom Will Never End").

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 60:19

The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.

Revelation 21:23

And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb [is] the light thereof.

Isaiah 13:10

For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine.

Revelation 22:5

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Hebrews 12:22

But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,

Revelation 6:12

And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

Revelation 6:14

And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places.