Isaiah 26:2

Translation
King James Version
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
Open H6605 ye the gates H8179, that the righteous H6662 nation H1471 which keepeth H8104 the truth H529 may enter in H935.
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
Open the gates! Let the righteous nation enter, a nation that keeps faith!
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
Open the gates so a righteous nation may enter— one that remains faithful.
Ask
American Standard Version
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth faith may enter in.
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
Open the gates, that the righteous nation may enter: the one which keeps faith.
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
Open ye the gates that the righteous nation, which keepeth the trueth, may enter in.
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
Open ye the gates, that enter may a righteous nation, Preserving stedfastness.
Ask
See also
Revelation 5:91 Peter 2:9Psalms 118:20Isaiah 60:11Isaiah 62:10Isaiah 62:2Isaiah 60:21
In the KJVVerse 18,133 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Isaiah 26:2 presents a powerful prophetic invitation within a song of eschatological salvation, declaring that the gates of God's secure, divine city are to be opened. This access is not indiscriminate, but specifically for a "righteous nation" that steadfastly "keepeth the truth." The verse encapsulates a foundational biblical principle: entry into God's presence and the enjoyment of His blessings are predicated upon a people's moral integrity, unwavering faithfulness to His revealed Word, and active embodiment of His character, foreshadowing the ultimate establishment of His righteous and eternal kingdom.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Isaiah 26:2 is situated within a profound prophetic section of Isaiah, often referred to as the "Little Apocalypse" (chapters 24-27). This segment marks a significant shift from prophecies of judgment against the nations to a glorious vision of God's ultimate triumph, the restoration of His people, and the establishment of His righteous kingdom. Chapter 26 itself is presented as a "song of salvation" that God's redeemed people will sing in that future day. The preceding verse, Isaiah 26:1, introduces the "strong city" whose salvation serves as its impregnable walls and bulwarks, immediately setting the stage for the divine invitation to enter in verse 2. The subsequent verses, such as Isaiah 26:3 and Isaiah 26:4, continue to extol God's perfect peace and eternal trustworthiness for those who trust in Him, reinforcing the theme of divine security and future hope for a purified people.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The imagery of a "strong city" with "gates" was deeply resonant and culturally significant in the ancient Near East. Walled cities were not merely settlements but primary centers of refuge, commerce, and governance, symbolizing security and power. Gates were far more than simple entrances; they were critical points of defense, public assembly, legal proceedings, and economic exchange. The opening of gates often signified welcome, victory, or the establishment of peace and open access, while closed gates implied siege, exclusion, or mourning. For ancient Israel, the concept of Jerusalem as God's holy city, though frequently besieged and conquered, carried the enduring hope of ultimate divine protection and restoration. This prophecy likely looks beyond any immediate historical restoration, such as the return from Babylonian exile, to a future, ultimate eschatological fulfillment, where God's people will dwell securely in His presence, free from all threats and in perfect peace.
  • Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes found throughout Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Divine Security and Protection, portraying God's kingdom as an impenetrable fortress where His people find ultimate refuge, a theme powerfully echoed in Psalm 46:1. Secondly, it emphatically underscores Righteousness as a Prerequisite for divine blessing and access. Entry into God's presence is not universal but reserved for those who align with His holy character, a principle consistently taught throughout Scripture, as seen in the qualifications for dwelling on God's holy hill in Psalm 15. Thirdly, the emphasis on "keeping the truth" points to Faithfulness and Adherence to God's Revealed Word. This implies not just intellectual assent to divine precepts but active preservation, diligent living, and unwavering loyalty to God's established word and character, a concept vital to the covenant relationship as outlined in passages like Deuteronomy 6:6-9. Finally, the verse carries strong Eschatological Hope, pointing to a future, perfected kingdom where God's people will dwell in everlasting righteousness and peace, a vision that culminates in the New Jerusalem described in Revelation 21.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Open (Hebrew, pâthach', H6605): This primitive root signifies "to open wide," whether literally or figuratively, implying unhindered access. It can also mean "to loosen," "to begin," or "to engrave." In Isaiah 26:2, it functions as an imperative command, indicating a divine decree for the gates to be opened. This suggests a welcoming, yet divinely controlled, invitation, signaling that this access is granted by God's authority and as a result of His sovereign action, rather than human effort.
  • Righteous (Hebrew, tsaddîyq', H6662): Derived from the root meaning "to be just," this adjective describes someone who is upright, innocent, and conforms to a divine standard of rightness. It denotes moral integrity, ethical conduct, and adherence to God's covenant demands. The "righteous nation" is therefore characterized by a collective character and conduct that are in alignment with God's own justice and holiness, making them fit to enter and dwell in His holy presence.
  • Truth (Hebrew, ʼêmûwn', H529): This word, stemming from the root "to be established" or "to be firm," signifies trustworthiness, faithfulness, and reliability. It refers to God's revealed truth, His unchanging character, His covenant promises, and His moral law. To "keepeth the truth" implies not merely intellectual knowledge or passive belief, but active preservation, diligent adherence, and faithful living according to God's established word and character. It speaks to both doctrinal fidelity and practical integrity, demonstrating a steadfast commitment.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Open ye the gates": This is a powerful imperative command, likely addressed to the angelic gatekeepers or personified gates themselves, signifying a divine decree. It announces the imminent and certain opening of access to the "strong city" mentioned in Isaiah 26:1, indicating a momentous time of welcome, security, and divine favor. The command underscores God's sovereign authority over His kingdom and its entrance.
  • "that the righteous nation": This clause specifies the exclusive qualification for entry. It is not just any nation, but one uniquely characterized by "righteousness" (tsaddîyq). This points to a people whose moral conduct, ethical character, and covenant faithfulness are aligned with God's holy standards, distinguishing them from the unrighteous world and marking them as recipients of divine favor. Their righteousness is the prerequisite for their privileged access.
  • "which keepeth the truth": This phrase further defines and elaborates upon the nature of the "righteous nation." Their righteousness is not merely passive or imputed but active; they "keep" (shâmar), meaning they guard, preserve, observe, and remain faithful to "the truth" (ʼêmûwn). This implies both diligent adherence to God's revealed Word and unwavering faithfulness in living out that truth consistently, demonstrating steadfast loyalty to God's covenant and His character in all aspects of life.
  • "may enter in": This is the ultimate purpose and blessed outcome of the gates being opened. The divinely qualified nation is granted full access and secure residency within the strong, blessed city. It signifies a state of profound divine favor, protection, and intimate communion with God, embodying the ultimate hope and destiny of God's redeemed people in His everlasting kingdom.

Literary Devices

Isaiah 26:2 employs several powerful literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. The most prominent is Metaphor, where the "strong city" with its "gates" serves as a profound image for God's secure kingdom, His protective presence, or the eschatological dwelling place of the redeemed. The opening of these gates symbolizes divine welcome, unhindered access to salvation, and the establishment of an era of peace. Personification is also evident in the phrase "the righteous nation which keepeth the truth," attributing the human actions of "keeping" or guarding to an entire nation, thereby emphasizing its collective character, moral responsibility, and active fidelity. Furthermore, the verse uses an Imperative ("Open ye the gates"), which functions as a divine command, underscoring the authority, certainty, and divine initiative behind this future event. The use of a Qualifying Clause ("that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth") acts as a condition for entry, highlighting the moral and spiritual prerequisites for dwelling in God's holy presence and receiving His blessings.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Isaiah 26:2 articulates a profound theological truth: access to God's ultimate salvation, His secure dwelling, and His intimate presence is not universal but conditional upon a people's righteousness and unwavering faithfulness to His truth. This aligns perfectly with the consistent biblical emphasis on God's absolute holiness and His demand for a holy people who reflect His character. The "righteous nation" anticipates a community transformed by God's grace, living out His justice and integrity in their lives. This verse speaks to the very nature of true worship and relationship with God—it is not merely ritualistic or external but involves a life of deep integrity and unwavering commitment to His revealed will. It also powerfully reinforces the theme of divine sovereignty, as God Himself dictates the terms and qualifications for entry into His dwelling.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Isaiah 26:2 serves as both an inspiring promise and a challenging call to introspection for believers today. It assures us that there is a secure dwelling in God's presence, a place of perfect peace and divine protection, reserved for those who truly belong to Him. This promise fosters profound hope and unwavering trust in God's ultimate victory and the certain establishment of His eternal kingdom. However, it also presents a vital challenge: are we, individually and corporately, truly a "righteous nation" that "keepeth the truth"? This compels us to a diligent and active pursuit of holiness, living lives that consistently reflect God's justice and integrity in all our dealings. It demands that we not only intellectually believe God's Word but also actively guard it against distortion, diligently live by its precepts, and courageously stand firm in its truth amidst a world often hostile to divine revelation. Our present walk of faith and obedience is intrinsically linked to our future entry into God's eternal presence.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what tangible ways does my life demonstrate a diligent pursuit of righteousness and unwavering adherence to God's truth?
  • How can I more actively "keep" or guard God's truth—both doctrinally and practically—in my daily life and against prevailing cultural pressures?
  • What specific steps can my local church take to collectively embody the characteristics of a "righteous nation" in its community and witness?
  • How does the promise of guaranteed entry into God's secure city strengthen my hope and resolve amidst the current challenges and uncertainties of life?

FAQ

Who is the "righteous nation" mentioned in this verse?

Answer: The "righteous nation" (Hebrew: gôwy tsaddîyq) initially referred to a purified remnant of Israel, those who remained faithful to God's covenant amidst widespread apostasy and judgment. However, in its broader prophetic and eschatological context, it points to God's true people, those who are justified by faith and live in accordance with His righteous standards. This concept expands significantly in the New Testament to include all believers, both Jew and Gentile, who constitute the Church, the spiritual Israel of God, as profoundly described in Galatians 3:26-29. It is a community defined not by ethnic origin, but by a shared relationship with God through faith and a life of obedience to His truth.

What does it mean to "keepeth the truth"?

Answer: To "keepeth the truth" (Hebrew: shâmar ʼêmûwn) means to actively guard, preserve, observe, and remain faithfully devoted to God's revealed truth. It implies far more than mere intellectual assent to doctrines; it involves diligent adherence to God's Word, living consistently according to its principles, and defending it against error or compromise. It encompasses both doctrinal fidelity—holding fast to what is true—and practical integrity—living out that truth in one's conduct and character. This active "keeping" is essential for a nation or an individual to be truly "righteous" and acceptable in God's sight, as powerfully highlighted by Jesus' words in John 8:31-32, where abiding in His word leads to true freedom and knowledge of the truth.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Isaiah 26:2 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "righteous nation" that is granted entry into God's secure city is ultimately comprised of those who are made righteous, not by their own merit, but through faith in Him. Jesus Himself is the very embodiment of "the truth," declaring, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life" in John 14:6. It is by believing in Him and actively "keeping" His word that believers become part of this truly righteous people. Through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross, the formidable barrier of sin that separated humanity from God was decisively removed, and the "gates" to God's presence, once guarded by cherubim after the fall in Genesis 3:24, were flung wide open. Believers, by virtue of their union with Christ, are now a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession" as proclaimed in 1 Peter 2:9, granted bold access to the Father through the new and living way that He inaugurated through His flesh, as described in Hebrews 10:19-20. Thus, the eschatological hope of Isaiah 26:2 is realized in the Church, the body of Christ, which anticipates full and glorious entry into the New Jerusalem, where only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life may enter, as revealed in Revelation 21:27.

Copy as

Commentary on Isaiah 26 verses 1–4

To the prophecies of gospel grace very fitly is a song annexed, in which we may give God the glory and take to ourselves the comfort of that grace: In that day, the gospel day, which the day of the victories and enlargements of the Old Testament church was typical of (to some of which perhaps this has a primary reference), in that day this song shall be sung; there shall be persons to sing it, and cause and hearts to sing it; it shall be sung in the land of Judah, which was a figure of the gospel church; for the gospel covenant is said to be made with the house of Judah, Heb 8:8. Glorious things are here said of the church of God.

I. That it is strongly fortified against those that are bad (Isa 26:1): We have a strong city. It is a city incorporated by the charter of the everlasting covenant, fitted for the reception of all that are made free by that charter, for their employment and entertainment; it is a strong city, as Jerusalem was, while it was a city compact together, and had God himself a wall of fire round about it, so strong that none would have believed that an enemy could ever enter into the gates of Jerusalem, Lam 4:12. The church is a strong city, for it has walls and bulwarks, or counterscarps, and those of God's own appointing; for he has, in his promise, appointed salvation itself to be its defence. Those that are designed for salvation will find that to be their protection, Pe1 1:4.

II. That it is richly replenished with those that are good, and they are instead of fortifications to it; for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, if they are such as they should be, are its strength, Zac 12:5. The gates are here ordered to be opened, that the righteous nation, which keeps the truth, may enter in, Isa 26:2. They had been banished and driven out by the iniquity of the former times, but now the laws that were made against them are repealed, and they have liberty to enter in again. Or, There is an act for a general naturalization of all the righteous, whatever nation they are of, encouraging them to come and settle in Jerusalem. When God has done great things for any place or people he expects that thus they should render according to the benefit done unto them; they should be kind to his people, and take them under their protection and into their bosom. Note, 1. It is the character of righteous men that they keep the truths of God, a firm belief of which will have a commanding influence upon the regularity of the whole conversation. Good principles fixed in the head will produce good resolutions in the heart and good practices in the life. 2. It is the interest of states to countenance such, and court them among them, for they bring a blessing with them.

III. That all who belong to it are safe and easy, and have a holy security and serenity of mind in the assurance of God's favour. 1. This is here the matter of a promise (Isa 26:3): Thou wilt keep him in peace, peace, in perfect peace, inward peace, outward peace, peace with God, peace of conscience, peace at all times, under all events; this peace shall he be put into, and kept in the possession of, whose mind is stayed upon God, because it trusts in him. It is the character of every good man that he trusts in God, puts himself under his guidance and government, and depends upon him that it shall be greatly to his advantage to do so. Those that trust in God must have their minds stayed upon him, must trust him at all times, under all events, must firmly and faithfully adhere to him, with an entire satisfaction in him; and such as do so God will keep in perpetual peace, and that peace shall keep them. When evil tidings are abroad those shall calmly expect the event, and not be disturbed by frightful apprehensions arising from them, whose hearts are fixed, trusting in the Lord, Psa 112:7. 2. It is the matter of a precept (Isa 26:4): "Let us make ourselves easy by trusting in the Lord for ever; since God has promised peace to those that stay themselves upon him, let us not lose the benefit of that promise, but repose an entire confidence in him. Trust in him for ever, at all times, when you have nothing else to trust to; trust in him for that peace, that portion, which will be for ever." Whatever we trust to the world for, it will be but for a moment: all we expect from it is confined within the limits of time. But what we trust in God for will last as long as we shall last. For in the Lord Jehovah-Jah, Jehovah, in him who was, and is, and is to come, there is a rock of ages, a firm and lasting foundation for faith and hope to build upon; and the house built on that rock will stand in a storm. Those that trust in God shall not only find in him, but receive from him, everlasting strength, strength that will carry them to everlasting life, to that blessedness which is for ever; and therefore let them trust in him for ever, and never cast away nor change their confidence.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–4. Public domain.
Copy as
JeromeAD 420
Commentary on Isaiah
(Vers. 2-4.) Open the gates, and let the just nation enter, guarding the truth. The ancient error has gone away, you shall keep peace: peace, because we have hoped in you. You have hoped in the Lord in eternal ages. LXX: Open the gates, let the nation enter, guarding justice, and guarding truth, holding onto truth, and guarding peace: peace, because they have hoped in you, Lord, forever. This entire chant, which is sung on earth by those who confess and praise the holy ones, suddenly changes personas, and is woven as if through question and answer. The people of God said: 'The city of our strength, the Savior, will be built with a wall and a rampart in it.' The Lord replied, or rather commanded, not those who said this, but the angels who presided over the gates of the Lord's city, to open the gates so that a righteous nation, guarding the truth, may enter through them, or as it is said in Hebrew, Emmunim, which in our language is translated as faith in the plural number, not singular. What are the gates, which are opened by angels, so that the people of Judah, who are rejected, may not enter, but rather the righteous nation, which has received its name from the faith of the faithful? Indeed, those of which the saint speaks: Open to me the gates of righteousness, I will enter through them and give thanks to the Lord (Ps. CXVII, 19). However, no one will be able to enter these gates unless they have been freed from the gates of death; and as the Psalmist says: You who lift me up from the gates of death, that I may declare all your praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion (Ps. IX, 15). For when we have been saved from the gates of death, then at the gates of the daughter of Zion we will be able to sing all the praises of the Lord. And just as I consider the gates of death to be sins, of which it is said to Peter: The gates of hell shall not prevail against you (Matthew 16:18); so the gates of righteousness, all the works of virtue, whoever enters them will find one gate, of which it is said: This is the gate of the Lord, the righteous shall enter it (Psalm 118:19). And how is it that through many pearls one arrives at one pearl: so through many paths and gates we come to Him who says He is the way and the gate, through which we enter to the Father. After the word of God, the people answered in Hebrew 'Jeser Samuch' (which Aquila and Symmachus similarly translated) which means 'our error is removed', or 'our thought is established', which previously wavered between you and idols, so that we are not carried about by every wind of doctrine, but with our whole mind we believe in you, the Lord and Savior. In order for us to have a clearer understanding, we have translated, the old error has gone away. And since our thought has been confirmed, therefore you will keep for us the peace that you promised to the Apostles, saying: My peace I give to you, my peace I leave to you (John 14:27); and not only once, but twice, so that the secure reward that is promised in twofold language may be assured, according to what the Apostle also spoke: Rejoice, I say again, rejoice (Philippians 4:4). But the consequence of this is what is said in Leviticus: 'A man, a man, of the sons of Israel' (Lev. 17). And in the book of Numbers: 'A husband, a husband, whose wife has defiled the marriage bed' (Num. 5:12): so that a double man and a double husband may obtain double peace. And they say, 'We merit peace because we trust in you with our whole mind.' After the words of the people and the response of the Lord, the voice of the Prophet speaks again to the believers: 'You have hoped, or continue to hope, in the Lord, in everlasting ages,' and so on. According to the Septuagint, he enters the gates of the Lord, who guards justice in good works, and preserves or embraces truth in the truth of faith, so that he may attain peace through good works and faith, which surpasses all understanding, and deserve to receive that same peace; for he believed in God who is the dispenser of eternal good works (Philippians 4). Therefore, it is also written in another place: You have desired wisdom, keep the commandments, and the Lord will grant it to you (Ecclesiastes 1:33).
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as

Continue studying Isaiah 26:2 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.