Isaiah 25:3

KJV

Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore shall the strong {H5794} people {H5971} glorify {H3513} thee, the city {H7151} of the terrible {H6184} nations {H1471} shall fear {H3372} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore mighty peoples glorify you, the city of ruthless nations fears you.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, a strong people will honor You. The cities of ruthless nations will revere You.

American Standard Version

Therefore shall a strong people glorify thee; a city of terrible nations shall fear thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 25:3 stands as a powerful declaration of God's ultimate and undeniable sovereignty over all earthly powers. It prophesies a future time when even the most formidable and oppressive nations, those who once defied Him, will be compelled by His demonstrated might to acknowledge His supremacy, either glorifying Him in worship or fearing Him in awe-filled submission. This verse anticipates the universal recognition of God's righteous judgment and triumphant reign, a natural consequence of His mighty acts revealed in the preceding context.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a profound "song of praise" (Isaiah 25:1-5) that celebrates God's righteous judgments and His ultimate victory over the forces of chaos and oppression. The preceding verses vividly describe God's destructive power against the "city" and "fortified city" (likely symbolic of human pride and oppressive empires), turning them into a "heap of ruins" ([Isaiah 25:2](/isaiah/25-2 "Isaiah 25:2 - God's Judgment on the City")). The "Therefore" in verse 3 directly links to these acts of divine judgment, presenting the glorification and fear of God by the nations as the inevitable outcome of His demonstrated power. Following this, the chapter transitions to a glorious vision of a divine banquet on Mount Zion, where God will "swallow up death forever" ([Isaiah 25:6-8](/isaiah/25-6 "Isaiah 25:6-8 - The Feast on Mount Zion and Victory Over Death")), highlighting the eschatological hope that undergirds God's triumph.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Isaiah's prophecy was delivered during a tumultuous period for Judah, caught between the rising and falling empires of Assyria and Babylon. These "strong people" and "terrible nations" would have resonated deeply with the contemporary experience of Israel, who faced constant threats from powerful, often brutal, foreign powers. The concept of a conquering deity being feared and glorified by vanquished nations was common in the ancient Near East, where military victory was often attributed to a nation's god. However, Isaiah subverts this by declaring that it is Yahweh, the God of Israel, who will ultimately be acknowledged by *all* nations, not merely as a tribal deity, but as the supreme ruler of the cosmos. This universal acknowledgment transcends typical geopolitical power dynamics, pointing to a divine, rather than human, ultimate authority.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 25:3 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it underscores **God's Unquestionable Sovereignty**, declaring that all earthly power, no matter how formidable, is ultimately subordinate to His divine authority. This speaks to God's absolute control over human history and destiny, a truth echoed in passages like [Psalm 103:19](/psalm/103-19 "Psalm 103:19 - God's Sovereignty Over All"). Secondly, it highlights **Divine Judgment and Transformation**, where the destruction of oppressive powers (implied from previous verses) leads not merely to punishment, but to a revelation of God's true nature that compels awe and reverence, even from His former adversaries. Finally, it foretells the **Universal Recognition of God**, anticipating a future where the knowledge and glory of the Lord will fill the earth ([Habakkuk 2:14](/habakkuk/2-14 "Habakkuk 2:14 - The Earth Filled with God's Glory")). Even the most formidable and hostile nations will be forced to concede His power and majesty, leading to a compelled glorification or fear.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Strong (Hebrew, _ʻaz'_):** From H5794, this word denotes something "strong, vehement, harsh." When applied to "people" (H5971, _ʻam'_), it describes nations or armies that are mighty, formidable, and perhaps even fierce or oppressive in their power. It emphasizes their physical or military strength, setting them apart as significant earthly powers that would typically inspire fear in others.
* **Glorify (Hebrew, _kâbad'_):** From H3513, this primitive root means "to be heavy," which extends to various senses including "to be numerous, rich, honorable." In a causative sense, it means "to make weighty," "to make glorious," or "to honor." Here, it signifies giving God the weight, honor, and respect due to His inherent greatness and majesty. It implies acknowledging His inherent glory and responding with praise and worship.
* **Fear (Hebrew, _yârêʼ'_):** From H3372, this primitive root means "to fear," but morally, it also means "to revere." While it can denote terror or fright, especially in the context of judgment, when applied to God, it often carries the deeper theological meaning of profound awe, reverence, and respectful submission. It's an acknowledgment of God's irresistible power and dominion, leading to a compelled bowing before His authority, whether willingly or unwillingly.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee":** This clause presents the first consequence of God's demonstrated power and judgment. The "strong people," representing the most formidable and powerful nations of the world, will be compelled to "glorify" God. This glorification is not necessarily a willing act of worship from a converted heart, but rather a compelled acknowledgment of God's overwhelming might and inherent majesty, forced by the undeniable evidence of His dominion over all earthly affairs.
* **"the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee":** This second clause parallels and reinforces the first. "The city of the terrible nations" serves as a metonymy for the centers of power and the very essence of oppressive, tyrannical empires (the "terrible nations" from H6184, _ʻârîyts'_). These nations, characterized by their ruthlessness and might, will "fear" God. This fear encompasses not only terror in the face of His judgment but also a profound, awe-filled recognition of His unchallengeable authority and power, leading to their ultimate submission.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 25:3 employs several powerful **Literary Devices** to convey its message. The most prominent is **Parallelism**, specifically synonymous parallelism, where the two clauses ("the strong people glorify thee" and "the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee") express similar ideas using different but reinforcing imagery. This repetition emphasizes the certainty and universality of God's ultimate recognition. **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** is evident in "the city of the terrible nations," where "city" represents the entire oppressive system, its power, and its inhabitants, rather than a literal urban center. This device allows the prophet to encapsulate the essence of hostile human power in a concise image. Furthermore, the verse uses **Prophetic Language**, speaking of a future event with absolute certainty, as if it has already happened or is inevitable. This certainty instills hope and reinforces the divine authority behind the prophecy. The description of *all* "strong people" and "terrible nations" bowing before God also contains an element of **Hyperbole**, underscoring the absolute and comprehensive nature of God's future triumph over all opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 25:3 is a profound statement about God's ultimate victory and the eschatological hope for His universal reign. It asserts that despite the present dominance of oppressive human powers, God's sovereignty will ultimately be acknowledged by all. This recognition is not merely intellectual assent but a compelled response to His overwhelming power and righteous judgment. The verse points to a future where divine justice is fully revealed, leading to the subjugation of all opposition and the establishment of God's kingdom as the supreme authority. It offers immense comfort, assuring believers that no earthly power can ultimately thwart God's purposes.

* [Psalm 86:9](/psalm/86-9 "Psalm 86:9 - All Nations Worship God")
* [Revelation 15:4](/revelation/15-4 "Revelation 15:4 - Who Shall Not Fear and Glorify God's Name?")
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 25:3 offers a powerful anchor for faith in a world often characterized by the apparent triumph of oppressive regimes and the seemingly insurmountable challenges posed by human wickedness. It reminds us that God is not merely a passive observer but the active, sovereign ruler of history, whose justice will ultimately prevail. This prophecy encourages us to maintain a long-term perspective, trusting that even the most resistant hearts and nations will one day be compelled to acknowledge His supreme authority. For believers, it serves as a call to live now in a way that glorifies God, anticipating the day when all creation will do so. It also challenges us to boldly proclaim His sovereignty, knowing that His kingdom will ultimately encompass all.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this verse challenge our perception of earthly power and authority in light of God's ultimate sovereignty?**
* **In what practical ways can we, as individuals and as the church, "glorify" God in our daily lives, even amidst challenging circumstances or societal opposition?**
* **What comfort and hope does this prophecy offer regarding God's ultimate justice and the future of His kingdom?**

### FAQ
**What does "strong people" and "terrible nations" refer to in this verse?**

Answer: In Isaiah 25:3, "strong people" (Hebrew: `ʻam ʻaz`) and "terrible nations" (Hebrew: `goyim ʻaritsim`) refer to the formidable, often oppressive, human powers, empires, and their centers of influence that have historically opposed God and His people. While it could have had specific contemporary applications for Isaiah's audience (e.g., Assyria, Babylon), prophetically, it encompasses any earthly authority or system that operates outside of God's righteous will, emphasizing their eventual, compelled submission to Him. It highlights the contrast between finite human might and infinite divine power.

**Is the "fear" mentioned here a fear of terror or reverence?**

Answer: While an element of terror for those who have opposed God and are facing His judgment is certainly implied, the primary sense of "fear" (Hebrew: `yârêʼ`) in a theological context often denotes profound awe, reverence, and respectful submission to God's ultimate power and holiness. It's a recognition of His unchallengeable authority and majesty, leading to worship or compelled obedience. This "fear" is not merely a cowering fright but an acknowledgment of God's rightful place as supreme ruler, similar to the concept of the [fear of the Lord being the beginning of wisdom](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord"). For those who have resisted Him, it is a forced recognition; for those who love Him, it is a willing adoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 25:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "strong people" and "terrible nations" who are compelled to glorify and fear God ultimately bow before the Lamb of God. Jesus, through His death, resurrection, and ascension, has triumphed over all the powers of darkness and oppression that once held humanity captive ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). His first coming inaugurated the kingdom of God, and His second coming will fully establish it, when He returns as the [King of Kings and Lord of Lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"). It is before Him that [every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow and Every Tongue Confess"), to the glory of God the Father. The destruction of oppressive powers and the universal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty prophesied in Isaiah 25:3 are realized in Christ's victory over sin, death, and the devil, culminating in a new heavens and new earth where [God will dwell with His people](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with His People") and His glory will fill all things.

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

Psalms 46:10

Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

Psalms 46:11

The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

Zechariah 14:16

¶ And it shall come to pass, [that] every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles.

Zechariah 14:9

And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

Isaiah 49:23

And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with [their] face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I [am] the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.

Isaiah 49:26

And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD [am] thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.

Revelation 11:15

And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.