Isaiah 28:5

KJV

In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,

KJV (with Strong's)

In that day {H3117} shall the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} be for a crown {H5850} of glory {H6643}, and for a diadem {H6843} of beauty {H8597}, unto the residue {H7605} of his people {H5971},

Complete Jewish Bible

On that day, ADONAI-Tzva'ot will be a glorious crown, a brilliant diadem for the remnant of his people.

Berean Standard Bible

On that day the LORD of Hosts will be a crown of glory, a diadem of splendor to the remnant of His people,

American Standard Version

In that day will Jehovah of hosts become a crown of glory, and a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 28:5 presents a profound and hopeful contrast to the preceding verses, which detail God's impending judgment upon the proud and morally corrupt northern kingdom of Ephraim. Amidst prophecies of desolation and the fading glory of human pride, this verse declares that in a future "day," the LORD of hosts Himself will become the ultimate source of true glory, honor, and enduring beauty for the faithful remnant of His people. It powerfully shifts the focus from humanity's failure and transient worldly splendor to God's unwavering faithfulness and His divine purpose to confer lasting dignity upon those who remain loyal to Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 28:5 marks a pivotal turning point within a larger oracle (Isaiah 28:1-29) primarily directed against the "drunkards of Ephraim," symbolizing the spiritual and moral decay of the northern kingdom of Israel, particularly its capital, Samaria. The opening verses (Isaiah 28:1-4) vividly describe their pride, indulgence, and impending destruction, likening their "glorious beauty" to a fading flower. Verse 5 introduces a radical shift, moving from pronouncements of judgment on the unfaithful to a promise of divine restoration and honor for a faithful few. This "day" signifies a divinely appointed time of intervention, encompassing both the immediate aftermath of judgment and the ultimate Messianic era, where God's true kingdom will be established. This abrupt transition underscores God's ability to work His purposes of salvation even amidst widespread apostasy and destruction, a recurring motif throughout the book of Isaiah.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Isaiah 28 is delivered during a turbulent period in Israel's history, likely in the late 8th century BCE, as the Assyrian Empire posed a significant threat to both the northern kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) and the southern kingdom of Judah. Samaria, the capital of Ephraim, was known for its wealth, strategic location, and, as Isaiah indicates, its moral corruption and reliance on political alliances (rather than God) for security. The "crown" and "diadem" were potent symbols of royalty, honor, and national pride in the ancient Near East, often adorning kings or representing the splendor of a city. By declaring that the LORD Himself would become the "crown of glory" and "diadem of beauty," Isaiah subverts the worldly symbols of power and status that Ephraim had pursued, asserting that true honor and security come only from God, not from human strength or fleeting material splendor.

* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 28:5 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Faithfulness**, demonstrating that even in the face of widespread apostasy and impending judgment, God remains true to His covenant promises and preserves a people for Himself. Secondly, it emphasizes the **Contrast Between Human Pride and Divine Glory**, illustrating that worldly beauty and strength are transient and ultimately fade, whereas the glory conferred by God is eternal and true. This stands in stark opposition to the fleeting "glorious beauty" of Ephraim mentioned in [Isaiah 28:1](/isaiah/28-1 "Isaiah 28:1 - Woe to the Crown of Pride"). Thirdly, the verse introduces or reinforces the critical concept of the **Faithful Remnant**. The promise is specifically "unto the residue of his people," underscoring that God's salvation is for a preserved, faithful portion amidst widespread unfaithfulness or judgment. This theme is pervasive in Isaiah, as seen in [Isaiah 10:20-22](/isaiah/10-20 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant Will Return"), and is later picked up in the New Testament to describe God's elect, as in [Romans 9:27](/romans/9-27 "Romans 9:27 - Paul's Reference to the Remnant"). Finally, it establishes **God as the True Source of Honor and Identity**, replacing human-derived status with divine worth, a concept echoed in [Zechariah 2:5](/zechariah/2-5 "Zechariah 2:5 - God as the Glory in the Midst"), where the Lord promises to be a wall of fire and the glory in the midst of Jerusalem.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD of hosts (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh tsâbâʼ_):** This compound title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power. **Yᵉhôvâh** (H3068) refers to the self-Existent or Eternal God, the personal covenant name of God. **tsâbâʼ** (H6635) denotes a "mass of persons," specifically an organized army or host, implying God's command over all heavenly and earthly forces. Together, "LORD of hosts" portrays God as the sovereign commander of all creation, capable of executing His will, whether in judgment or salvation, and underscoring His might to fulfill the promises made in this verse.
* **crown (Hebrew, _ʻăṭârâh'_):** From the root meaning "to encircle," **ʻăṭârâh** (H5850) literally refers to a crown, signifying royalty, honor, and distinction. In this context, it is a powerful metaphor. Instead of a physical crown worn by a king or representing the glory of a city (like Samaria's fading "crown of pride" in Isaiah 28:1), God Himself becomes the source of this regal honor for His people. This implies that their true dignity and authority will be derived directly from their relationship with Him, not from earthly power or possessions.
* **glory (Hebrew, _tsᵉbîy'_):** **tsᵉbîy** (H6643) carries the sense of "splendor" or "prominence," often associated with beauty and magnificence. It can also refer to a gazelle, known for its beauty. When combined with "crown," it signifies a splendor that is conspicuous and highly esteemed. Here, it contrasts sharply with the fading "glory" of Ephraim, asserting that the glory God bestows is not only beautiful but also enduring and truly honorable, reflecting His own divine nature.
* **residue (Hebrew, _shᵉʼâr'_):** **shᵉʼâr** (H7605) signifies a "remainder" or "remnant." This term is crucial, as it specifies the recipients of God's promise. It indicates that while widespread judgment may occur, a faithful portion of God's people will be preserved. This remnant is not saved by their own merit but by God's sovereign choice and faithfulness to His covenant, ensuring the continuity of His redemptive plan.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In that day":** This phrase points to a specific, divinely appointed future time. It is a prophetic marker, often referring to a time of significant divine intervention, encompassing both judgment and salvation, and ultimately pointing towards the eschatological fulfillment of God's kingdom.
* **"shall the LORD of hosts be":** This emphasizes God's active role and sovereign initiative. He is not merely a passive observer or a distant deity; He Himself will be the direct source and embodiment of the promised blessings. The title "LORD of hosts" underscores His omnipotence and ability to bring about this radical transformation.
* **"for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty":** These are powerful metaphors. Instead of relying on earthly symbols of power, wealth, or beauty, God Himself will be the source of true honor, splendor, and dignity for His people. A "crown of glory" (ʻăṭârâh tsᵉbîy) and a "diadem of beauty" (tsᵉphîyrâh tiphʼârâh) represent regal splendor, divine favor, and an enduring, intrinsic worth that far surpasses any worldly adornment.
* **"unto the residue of his people":** This identifies the specific beneficiaries of God's promise. It is not for all Israel indiscriminately, but for the faithful "remnant" who, despite widespread apostasy and judgment, remain loyal to God. This highlights God's particular care for those who truly belong to Him and are preserved by His grace.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 28:5 is rich in **Metaphor**, primarily portraying God Himself as a **crown of glory** and a **diadem of beauty**. This central metaphor is a powerful substitution: instead of human kings or cities wearing crowns, or finding beauty in fleeting earthly splendor, God's faithful people will find their ultimate honor, dignity, and aesthetic worth in the Lord Himself. This creates a stark **Contrast** with the preceding verses (Isaiah 28:1-4), which describe the "fading flower" and "glorious beauty" of Ephraim, highlighting the transient nature of human pride versus the enduring majesty of God. The verse also employs **Symbolism**, where the "crown" and "diadem" are not literal ornaments but represent divine favor, regal status, and inherent worth bestowed by God. Furthermore, the phrase "In that day" functions as a **Prophetic Marker**, signaling a future time of divine intervention and fulfillment, underscoring the eschatological hope embedded within the immediate context of judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 28:5 serves as a profound theological statement on God's unwavering faithfulness and His redemptive purpose, even amidst human failure and judgment. It articulates that true glory and beauty are not found in worldly power, material wealth, or fleeting human achievements, but solely in a relationship with the sovereign LORD. This verse underscores the biblical concept of the remnant—a faithful few preserved by God's grace—through whom His covenant promises will ultimately be fulfilled. It reveals God's character as both righteous judge and merciful redeemer, demonstrating His commitment to His people, even when they stray, by preserving a core group through whom His ultimate plan of salvation will unfold. The promise that God Himself will be their "crown" and "diadem" signifies a complete transformation of their identity and worth, rooted in His divine presence and favor.

* [Isaiah 10:20-22](/isaiah/10-20 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant Will Return") - This passage similarly emphasizes the theme of a remnant of Israel returning to the LORD, highlighting God's faithfulness in preserving a portion of His people.
* [Zechariah 2:5](/zechariah/2-5 "Zechariah 2:5 - The Lord as a Wall of Fire and Glory") - Here, the Lord promises to be a "wall of fire around it, and I will be the glory in its midst," echoing the concept of God Himself being the source of protection and splendor for His people.
* [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - A Remnant Chosen by Grace") - Paul references the concept of a remnant in the New Testament, explaining that God, by His grace, has always preserved a faithful few, connecting this Old Testament theme to the election of believers in Christ.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 28:5 offers profound encouragement and a powerful reorientation for believers navigating a world often characterized by fleeting glories and moral decay. In times when societal values seem to crumble, or when the church itself faces challenges of compromise and unfaithfulness, this verse reminds us that our ultimate hope and source of identity lie not in human institutions, achievements, or even the outward appearance of success, but solely in the enduring character and promises of the LORD. He alone is the true "crown of glory" and "diadem of beauty," providing a dignity, security, and worth that no earthly power can bestow or diminish. This calls us to a radical trust in God's faithfulness, to prioritize spiritual integrity over worldly accolades, and to find our true adornment in His presence, living as part of that faithful remnant who persevere in their devotion to Him, regardless of the surrounding spiritual climate.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I primarily seek my sense of worth, honor, or "beauty" in my life? Is it in external achievements, possessions, or in my relationship with God?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to rely on "fading flowers" or transient worldly glories instead of God as my ultimate source of security and significance?**
* **How does the concept of God being my "crown of glory" and "diadem of beauty" transform my understanding of true spiritual dignity and identity?**
* **What does it mean for me to live as part of God's "residue" or faithful remnant in today's world, and how can I cultivate perseverance in faith amidst challenges?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "drunkards of Ephraim" mentioned before this verse?**

Answer: The "drunkards of Ephraim" (Isaiah 28:1) refers to the leaders and people of the northern kingdom of Israel, specifically its capital, Samaria. Isaiah uses this vivid imagery to denounce their moral corruption, spiritual complacency, and reliance on worldly alliances rather than trusting in God. Their indulgence and pride, symbolized by drunkenness, led to their spiritual and political downfall, ultimately resulting in their destruction by the Assyrians. The "crown of pride" mentioned in [Isaiah 28:1](/isaiah/28-1 "Isaiah 28:1 - Woe to the Crown of Pride") refers to Samaria itself, a city built on a hill, whose beauty and strategic position had become a source of arrogant self-reliance.

**What does "the residue of his people" mean in this context?**

Answer: "The residue of his people" (Hebrew: *shᵉʼâr*) refers to a faithful remnant, a small portion of God's people who remain loyal to Him amidst widespread apostasy and impending judgment. This concept is a significant theme throughout the book of Isaiah and other prophetic literature. It signifies that while God's judgment may fall upon the unfaithful majority, He will, by His grace and covenant faithfulness, preserve a core group through whom His promises will be carried forward. This remnant is not saved by their own merit but by God's sovereign choice, ensuring the continuity of His redemptive plan, as seen in [Isaiah 10:20-22](/isaiah/10-20 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant Will Return").

**How does this verse relate to the New Testament and Christian theology?**

Answer: Isaiah 28:5 finds profound fulfillment and expansion in New Testament theology. The promise that God Himself will be the "crown of glory" and "diadem of beauty" for His people is ultimately realized in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of God's glory and the one through whom believers receive true honor and an imperishable crown. The "residue of his people" expands to include all who are united to Christ by faith, forming the new covenant people of God, the Church. Believers are called to find their identity and worth in Christ, who is their life and their glory (e.g., [Colossians 3:4](/colossians/3-4 "Colossians 3:4 - Christ Is Our Life")). The New Testament teaches that the Church, as God's chosen people, is adorned with Christ's righteousness and glory, looking forward to the ultimate consummation where God's glory fully illuminates His people (e.g., [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God's Glory Illuminates the New Jerusalem")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 28:5, with its prophetic declaration that the LORD of hosts will be a "crown of glory" and a "diadem of beauty" for His faithful remnant, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While initially pointing to a future restoration for a preserved Israel, the New Testament reveals Christ as the very embodiment of God's glory and the means by which this divine adornment is bestowed upon His people. Jesus, as the incarnate Word, came "full of grace and truth; and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). Through His atoning work, Christ becomes the true source of honor, dignity, and spiritual beauty for all who believe. The Church, composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, becomes the "residue of his people," a royal priesthood and a holy nation ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")), whose true "crown" is not of this world but is Christ Himself, "Christ in you, the hope of glory" ([Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory")). In Him, believers are clothed with righteousness and splendor that far surpasses any earthly crown, anticipating the day when they will share in His eternal glory and fully reflect His beauty in the new heavens and new earth ([Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - God's Glory Illuminates the New Jerusalem")).

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 62:3

Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.

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.

1 Peter 5:4

And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

Romans 11:5

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

Romans 11:6

And if by grace, then [is it] no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if [it be] of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

Psalms 90:16

Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children.

Psalms 90:17

And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.