Isaiah 25:8

KJV

He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

He will swallow up {H1104} death {H4194} in victory {H5331}; and the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069} will wipe away {H4229} tears {H1832} from off all faces {H6440}; and the rebuke {H2781} of his people {H5971} shall he take away {H5493} from off all the earth {H776}: for the LORD {H3068} hath spoken {H1696} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

He will swallow up death forever. Adonai ELOHIM will wipe away the tears from every face, and he will remove from all the earth the disgrace his people suffer. For ADONAI has spoken.

Berean Standard Bible

He will swallow up death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from every face and remove the disgrace of His people from the whole earth. For the LORD has spoken.

American Standard Version

He hath swallowed up death for ever; and the Lord Jehovah will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the reproach of his people will he take away from off all the earth: for Jehovah hath spoken it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 25:8 is a profound prophetic declaration, offering immense hope by unveiling God's ultimate triumph over death, sorrow, and the shame endured by His people. This verse serves as a cornerstone of eschatological promise within the Old Testament, pointing forward to a future where mortality is eternally vanquished, every tear is wiped away, and all reproach is removed, all guaranteed by the unwavering word of the sovereign Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 25:8 is situated within a section of Isaiah (chapters 24-27) often referred to as the "Little Apocalypse" due to its sweeping scope encompassing universal judgment and the glorious establishment of God's kingdom. Specifically, chapter 25 opens with a hymn of praise for God's mighty deeds and faithfulness. Verses 6-7 vividly depict a grand messianic banquet prepared by the Lord on Mount Zion for all peoples, where the "covering cast over all people" and the "veil spread over all nations"—symbolizing spiritual blindness, mourning, and the shadow of death—are removed. Verse 8 naturally follows this vision of divine revelation and victory, detailing the glorious, permanent consequences for humanity and God's covenant people, solidifying the hope presented in the preceding verses. The promise of God's dwelling among His people and the removal of the veil sets the stage for the ultimate eradication of death and sorrow, as seen in [Isaiah 25:6-7](/isaiah/25-6 "Isaiah 25:6-7 - The Lord's Feast and Removal of the Veil").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While Isaiah delivered his prophecies during a period of significant geopolitical upheaval involving the Assyrian and later Babylonian empires, the immediate historical context for Isaiah 25:8 transcends a specific contemporary event. This verse looks far beyond the immediate suffering or political fortunes of Judah, focusing instead on a future, ultimate divine intervention. Culturally, the concept of "rebuke" or "reproach" (`cherpâh`) was deeply significant in ancient Israel, often associated with national humiliation, defeat, exile, or the perception of divine disfavor (e.g., [Lamentations 3:61](/lamentations/3-61 "Lamentations 3:61 - Reproach and Plans of Enemies")). For a people who understood their identity and well-being as intrinsically linked to their covenant relationship with Yahweh, experiencing such shame was profoundly painful. The promise of its removal speaks to a complete restoration of honor, dignity, and divine favor, signifying a reversal of all past indignities.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully articulates the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Triumph**, showcasing God's absolute power to overcome the most formidable enemies of humanity: death and sorrow. Secondly, it underscores God's **Faithfulness to His Covenant Promises**, particularly the restoration and vindication of His people, who have often faced reproach and suffering (e.g., [Isaiah 40:1-2](/isaiah/40-1 "Isaiah 40:1-2 - Comfort for God's People")). Thirdly, the verse introduces a profound **Eschatological Hope**, pointing to a future new creation where the conditions of the fallen world are utterly reversed. This vision of a world without death or tears is a recurring motif in prophetic literature, culminating in the New Testament's depiction of the new heavens and new earth (e.g., [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - God Wipes Away Every Tear")). Finally, the concluding phrase, "for the LORD hath spoken [it]," reinforces the theme of **Divine Assurance and the Irrevocability of God's Word**, emphasizing that these promises are not mere wishes but certainties guaranteed by the character of God Himself (e.g., [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Swallow up (Hebrew, _bâlaʻ'_):** This primitive root (H1104) signifies a complete absorption, consumption, or destruction. It implies not merely a cessation or removal, but an active, decisive act of devouring, rendering something utterly powerless and nonexistent. When applied to death, it suggests death's total annihilation, not just its temporary subjugation.
* **Death (Hebrew, _mâveth'_):** The noun (H4194) refers to both natural and violent death, the state of the dead, and figuratively, pestilence or ruin. In this context, it embodies the ultimate enemy of humanity, the consequence of sin, and the source of immense sorrow. The promise is that this formidable foe will be utterly consumed.
* **In victory (Hebrew, _netsach'_):** This term (H5331) can mean "perpetuity," "eternity," "splendor," or "victory." Here, combined with the preposition "lā-" (to, for), "lānetsach" means "forever," "eternally," or "to victory." It emphasizes the permanent, irreversible nature of God's triumph over death. This is not a temporary reprieve but an everlasting conquest, a definitive and final victory.
* **Rebuke (Hebrew, _cherpâh'_):** This noun (H2781) denotes contumely, disgrace, or reproach. It refers to the shame, humiliation, and scorn that God's people have endured, whether from their enemies, their own failings, or the perceived absence of God's favor. The promise is that this source of deep pain and dishonor will be completely removed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He will swallow up death in victory":** This powerful opening clause declares God's decisive and permanent conquest over death. The imagery of "swallowing up" (Hebrew: `bâlaʻ`) conveys a complete and irreversible consumption, indicating that death will be utterly annihilated, its power and existence rendered null. The phrase "in victory" (Hebrew: `lānetsach`) emphasizes the eternal and definitive nature of this triumph, signifying an everlasting conquest rather than a temporary reprieve. This is the ultimate reversal of the curse of mortality.
* **"and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces":** This clause shifts from the cosmic defeat of death to the intimate, personal comfort provided by God. The "Lord GOD" (`ʼĂdônây Yᵉhôvih`) emphasizes His sovereign authority and covenant faithfulness. The act of "wiping away" (Hebrew: `mâchâh`) tears signifies a complete removal of all sorrow, grief, and pain. The scope of "all faces" indicates a universal consolation, encompassing every individual who experiences the redemptive work of God, ensuring a state of eternal joy and peace.
* **"and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth":** This third promise addresses the vindication and restoration of God's chosen people. "Rebuke" (Hebrew: `cherpâh`) refers to the shame, disgrace, and public humiliation that Israel has suffered throughout its history, often due to sin, exile, or the scorn of nations. God's promise to "take away" (Hebrew: `çûwr`) this reproach from "all the earth" signifies a complete and public removal of their dishonor, leading to their ultimate vindication, honor, and freedom from all forms of societal or spiritual oppression. It speaks to a global recognition of God's faithfulness to His covenant and the restored glory of His people.
* **"for the LORD hath spoken [it].":** This concluding phrase serves as an emphatic divine seal, underscoring the absolute certainty and irrevocability of the entire prophecy. The use of "the LORD" (Hebrew: `Yᵉhôvâh`, the covenant name of God) combined with "hath spoken" (Hebrew: `dâbar`) highlights God's omnipotence and faithfulness. What God declares, He will unquestionably bring to pass, reinforcing that these promises are not mere possibilities but guaranteed future realities.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 25:8 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message of hope and divine triumph. **Personification** is evident in the phrase "He will swallow up death," where death is treated as a formidable enemy or entity that can be actively consumed and defeated. This gives a vivid, almost tangible sense of its annihilation. **Hyperbole** is used in "wipe away tears from off all faces" and "take away [rebuke] from off all the earth," emphasizing the comprehensive and universal scope of God's redemptive work. While not literally every single face on earth, it conveys the totality of comfort for those in God's kingdom. The verse also functions as a **Divine Pronouncement**, with the concluding "for the LORD hath spoken [it]" serving as an authoritative and irreversible declaration, sealing the promises with the weight of God's own word. This reinforces the certainty and trustworthiness of the prophecy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 25:8 is a pivotal prophetic statement that profoundly shapes our understanding of God's ultimate redemptive plan. Theologically, it speaks to God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, including the forces of decay and destruction. It reveals a God who is not only powerful enough to judge the nations but also intimately compassionate, desiring to comfort His people and remove every cause of sorrow. This verse is a foundational text for Christian eschatology, pointing forward to a future reality where the effects of sin are completely undone, and God's perfect kingdom is fully established. It assures believers that present suffering and the sting of death are temporary, ultimately yielding to eternal joy and vindication in God's presence.

* [1 Corinthians 15:54](/1_corinthians/15-54 "1 Corinthians 15:54 - Death Swallowed Up in Victory")
* [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - God Wipes Away Every Tear in the New Creation")
* [Zephaniah 3:19](/zephaniah/3-19 "Zephaniah 3:19 - God Gathers and Gives Praise to His People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 25:8 offers immense comfort and profound hope for believers navigating a world marked by suffering, loss, and the inevitability of death. This verse reminds us that our present tears, grief, and the sting of mortality are not the final word. God, in His infinite power and compassion, has promised a future where these realities are utterly vanquished. This truth empowers us to face life's challenges with unwavering hope, knowing that our ultimate destiny is one of eternal joy, peace, and freedom from all forms of suffering and shame. It calls us to live in light of this glorious future, trusting in the faithfulness of the God who has spoken this promise, and to share this hope with a world desperately in need of it. Our temporary afflictions are light and momentary compared to the eternal weight of glory that awaits us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of death being "swallowed up in victory" transform your perspective on mortality and the fear of death?**
* **In what ways does the assurance that "the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces" bring you comfort in your present sorrows or losses?**
* **Considering the promise that God will "take away the rebuke of his people," how does this encourage you when you face shame, criticism, or feel marginalized for your faith?**
* **What practical steps can you take today to live more fully in the hope of Isaiah 25:8, even amidst current difficulties?**

### FAQ

**When will the promises of Isaiah 25:8 be fully fulfilled?**

Answer: The promises of Isaiah 25:8 have a multi-layered fulfillment, beginning with Christ's first coming and culminating in His second coming and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth. Jesus' resurrection was the decisive blow against death, demonstrating its ultimate defeat (e.g., [1 Corinthians 15:26](/1_corinthians/15-26 "1 Corinthians 15:26 - The Last Enemy to Be Destroyed is Death")). Believers now experience a foretaste of this victory through the Holy Spirit, finding comfort and freedom from spiritual reproach. However, the complete and visible fulfillment—where death is physically annihilated, every tear is wiped away from all faces, and all earthly shame is removed for God's people—awaits the return of Christ and the new creation (e.g., [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

**Does "all faces" mean everyone, or specifically God's people?**

Answer: While the phrase "all faces" (Hebrew: `pânîym`) can suggest universality, the immediate context of Isaiah 25:6-8 points to a universal invitation to the Lord's feast, yet the specific promise of removing "the rebuke of his people" (Isaiah 25:8b) focuses the ultimate, permanent comfort on those who are identified as God's redeemed. The "veil" removed in [Isaiah 25:7](/isaiah/25-7 "Isaiah 25:7 - The Veil Over All Nations") is for "all nations," implying a universal revelation of God's glory. Therefore, while God's comfort is offered broadly, the full experience of having tears wiped away and rebuke removed is for those who embrace His salvation and become part of His people, whether Jew or Gentile, through faith in Christ (e.g., [Galatians 3:28-29](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28-29 - One in Christ Jesus")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 25:8 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The prophecy that "He will swallow up death in victory" is realized in Christ's death and glorious resurrection. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus conquered the power of sin, which is the sting of death, and by His resurrection, He definitively triumphed over death itself, offering eternal life to all who believe (e.g., [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Jesus Destroys the Power of Death")). He is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, guaranteeing the future resurrection of all believers (e.g., [1 Corinthians 15:20-22](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20-22 - Christ, the Firstfruits of Resurrection")). Furthermore, Jesus is the ultimate Comforter who "will wipe away tears from off all faces." His ministry was characterized by compassion for the suffering, and through the Holy Spirit, He continues to comfort His people in their present sorrows (e.g., [John 14:18](/john/14-18 "John 14:18 - Jesus Will Not Leave Us as Orphans")). The full realization of this promise awaits His glorious return, when He will establish the new heavens and new earth, where "there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain" (e.g., [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death, Mourning, Crying, or Pain")). Finally, the promise that "the rebuke of his people shall he take away" is fulfilled in Christ's vindication of all who are in Him. Through His righteousness, believers are clothed with His perfect standing before God, removing all spiritual reproach and shame, and securing their eternal honor and acceptance as God's beloved children (e.g., [Romans 8:1-2](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1-2 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). Thus, Isaiah 25:8 is not merely a future hope, but a present reality for those united to Christ, and a certain promise of ultimate glory to come.

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

Revelation 21:4

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

Revelation 7:17

For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

1 Corinthians 15:54

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Hosea 13:14

I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from mine eyes.

1 Corinthians 15:26

The last enemy [that] shall be destroyed [is] death.

Revelation 20:14

And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

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.