Isaiah 29:19

KJV

The meek also shall increase [their] joy in the LORD, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

The meek {H6035} also shall increase {H3254} their joy {H8057} in the LORD {H3068}, and the poor {H34} among men {H120} shall rejoice {H1523} in the Holy One {H6918} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The humble will again rejoice in ADONAI and the poor exult in the Holy One of Isra'el,

Berean Standard Bible

The humble will increase their joy in the LORD, and the poor among men will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

American Standard Version

The meek also shall increase their joy in Jehovah, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 29:19 delivers a powerful prophetic promise of future restoration and divine justice, envisioning a time when those who are humble in spirit and those who are socio-economically disadvantaged will experience an overflowing and ever-increasing joy, rooted deeply in their relationship with the Lord. This verse stands as a profound declaration of God's particular care for the meek and dependent, contrasting their blessed state of spiritual flourishing with the spiritual blindness and arrogance that characterizes much of the preceding prophecy, highlighting God's ultimate vindication of the righteous.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 29, often referred to as "Woe to Ariel," primarily addresses Jerusalem, using a poetic name that alludes to its identity as God's altar city, yet also a city under siege. The chapter begins with stern pronouncements of judgment against Jerusalem for its spiritual stupor, hypocrisy, and reliance on human wisdom rather than divine revelation. The people and their leaders are depicted as spiritually blind and deaf, unable to discern God's word, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 29:9-12](/isaiah/29-9-12 "Isaiah 29:9-12 - Spiritual Blindness and Judgment"). However, amidst these severe warnings, the chapter transitions into a remarkable promise of future transformation and restoration, beginning around [Isaiah 29:17](/isaiah/29-17 "Isaiah 29:17 - Lebanon Becomes a Fertile Field"). Verse 19 falls squarely within this hopeful interlude ([Isaiah 29:17-24](/isaiah/29-17-24 "Isaiah 29:17-24 - Prophecy of Transformation and Restoration")), which prophesies a radical reversal: the deaf will hear, the blind will see, and the humble will rejoice, signifying a complete divine overturning of the prevailing spiritual and social order. This promise of joy for the meek directly follows the miraculous transformation of Lebanon into a fertile field, symbolizing a dramatic and seemingly impossible change initiated by God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Isaiah are generally situated in the tumultuous late 8th century BCE, a period marked by the aggressive expansion of the Assyrian Empire. Judah, particularly Jerusalem, found itself precariously positioned between the Assyrian superpower and the declining influence of Egypt. Rather than trusting in the Lord for deliverance, Judah's leaders often sought pragmatic political alliances with foreign powers, a practice frequently condemned by Isaiah. Culturally, the period was characterized by a widespread spiritual apathy and a form of religious observance that was external and ritualistic, lacking genuine heart devotion and social justice, as powerfully critiqued in [Isaiah 29:13](/isaiah/29-13 "Isaiah 29:13 - Hypocrisy and Lip Service"). In this societal backdrop, "the meek" and "the poor among men" would have represented the marginalized, the vulnerable, and those lacking social standing or material resources, often exploited or overlooked by the powerful elite. The promise of their vindication and joy speaks directly to a society where justice was frequently perverted and the vulnerable were neglected, offering a divine counter-narrative to human injustice.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 29:19 significantly contributes to several profound theological and narrative themes woven throughout the book of Isaiah and the broader biblical canon. Firstly, it vividly illustrates the theme of **Divine Reversal of Fortunes**, a consistent motif in prophetic literature where God actively intervenes to exalt the humble and bring low the proud. This principle underscores God's unwavering commitment to justice and His preferential concern for the oppressed and marginalized, echoing sentiments found in [1 Samuel 2:7-8](/1_samuel/2-7-8 "1 Samuel 2:7-8 - Hannah's Song of Reversal"). Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **True Joy and Its Divine Source**, asserting that genuine, lasting joy is not derived from worldly status, material possessions, or human power, but from a deep, covenantal relationship with "the LORD" and "the Holy One of Israel." This spiritual joy is portrayed as an increasing and enduring state, standing in stark contrast to the fleeting pleasures of the world. Thirdly, it emphasizes the **Blessedness of Meekness and Dependence on God**, presenting humility and reliance on God as prerequisites for receiving divine favor and experiencing true spiritual delight, rather than as weaknesses. This theme anticipates and aligns with later biblical teachings on humility and spiritual poverty, most notably articulated in [Matthew 5:3-5](/matthew/5-3-5 "Matthew 5:3-5 - The Beatitudes on Humility and Righteousness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Meek (Hebrew, _ʻânâv'_):** This term (H6035) denotes someone who is depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly). It describes those who are not self-sufficient but are humble, lowly, and look to the Lord for their sustenance and vindication. It implies a gentle, submissive disposition, often cultivated through experiences of oppression or need, leading to a profound reliance on God rather than on self or worldly power.
* **Increase (Hebrew, _yâçaph'_):** This primitive root (H3254) means "to add or augment," often adverbially, to continue to do a thing. In this context, it signifies that the joy of the meek will not be static but will progressively grow, becoming more abundant, profound, and continuous. It points to a dynamic and ever-deepening experience of divine favor and spiritual delight.
* **Rejoice (Hebrew, _gîyl'_):** This word (H1523) conveys a sense of spinning round (under the influence of any violent emotion), usually in the context of gladness or joy. It describes an exuberant, often demonstrative, expression of delight and elation. Its use here emphasizes the profound, uncontainable, and outward manifestation of happiness that the poor will experience in the presence of the Holy One of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The meek also shall increase [their] joy in the LORD,"**: This opening clause identifies the primary recipients of God's promised blessing: "the meek" (Hebrew: *ʻânâv*), those characterized by humility, affliction, and a dependent spirit before God. Their promised blessing is an "increasing joy" (Hebrew: *yâçaph simchâh*), indicating a progressive, growing, and deepening experience of delight that is not fleeting but enduring. The source of this profound joy is explicitly stated as "the LORD" (Hebrew: *Yᵉhôvâh*), emphasizing that their gladness is not circumstantial or self-generated, but is rooted in their covenant relationship with the sovereign, faithful God of Israel.
* **"and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel."**: This parallel clause powerfully reinforces the promise, identifying "the poor among men" (Hebrew: *ʼebyôwn ʼâdâm*), referring to the needy, destitute, or oppressed, as co-recipients of this divine favor. They "shall rejoice" (Hebrew: *gîyl*), using a word that denotes exuberant, often demonstrative, gladness. The object of their rejoicing is "the Holy One of Israel" (Hebrew: *qâdôwsh Yisrâʼêl*), a significant and frequently used title for God in Isaiah. This title highlights God's transcendent purity, His covenant faithfulness, and His active role as the unique, set-apart deliverer and vindicator of His people. The parallelism between the two clauses underscores the unified message of God's righteous vindication for all who are humble and dependent upon Him.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 29:19 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and hopeful message. Most prominently, **Parallelism** is evident in the two clauses of the verse, where "the meek" corresponds to "the poor among men," "shall increase their joy" parallels "shall rejoice," and "the LORD" is synonymous with "the Holy One of Israel." This synonymous parallelism serves to reinforce and intensify the central idea of God's vindication of the humble and the resulting profound joy. An implicit **Contrast** is also present, as the blessed state of the meek and poor stands in stark opposition to the spiritual blindness, arrogance, and impending judgment pronounced upon the proud and self-sufficient earlier in the chapter. The use of the distinct yet synonymous divine titles, "the LORD" (Yahweh) and "the Holy One of Israel," functions as a form of **Divine Identification** or **Theophany**, emphasizing the unchanging character, authority, and covenant faithfulness of the God who makes and fulfills these promises. This specific title, "Holy One of Israel," is a recurring **Motif** throughout the book of Isaiah, underscoring God's unique holiness and His intimate, yet transcendent, covenant relationship with His chosen people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully articulates a core biblical truth about God's unwavering commitment to justice and His profound, special regard for the humble, the afflicted, and the oppressed. It reveals that true, lasting joy is not found in worldly power, social status, or material possessions, but rather in a surrendered, dependent relationship with the sovereign and righteous God. The promise of "increasing joy" for the meek signifies a spiritual flourishing and inner contentment that transcends external circumstances, representing a divine reversal of fortunes where those overlooked or marginalized by human society are ultimately exalted and vindicated by God. This theological truth underscores the principle that God's kingdom values humility, dependence, and spiritual poverty, promising a future where His righteousness will prevail and those who trust in Him will find ultimate vindication, profound delight, and an enduring inheritance.

* [Psalm 37:11](/psalms/37-11 "Psalm 37:11 - The Meek Inherit the Land")
* [Zephaniah 2:3](/zephaniah/2-3 "Zephaniah 2:3 - Seek the Lord, All You Meek of the Earth")
* [Matthew 5:5](/matthew/5-5 "Matthew 5:5 - Blessed are the Meek")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 29:19 offers both profound encouragement and a challenging call for self-examination in a world that frequently exalts self-sufficiency, power, and material wealth. It reassures us that God sees, values, and deeply cares for those who are humble in spirit, dependent on Him, and often marginalized by societal standards. Our joy, as believers, is not intended to be a fleeting emotion tied to external circumstances or temporary achievements, but an ever-increasing and deepening reality rooted in our intimate relationship with the Lord, the Holy One of Israel. This verse invites us to cultivate a spirit of genuine meekness and humility, recognizing our absolute dependence on God for every aspect of our lives, and to find our deepest satisfaction, contentment, and delight in Him alone. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's perfect justice will ultimately prevail, and those who patiently wait on Him, align their hearts with His will, and embrace a spirit of humility will experience a joy that the world cannot provide and can never take away.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you tend to rely more on your own strength, wisdom, or resources rather than humbly depending on God?**
* **How does the promise of "increasing joy in the LORD" challenge your current understanding or pursuit of true happiness and fulfillment?**
* **What practical steps can you commit to taking this week to cultivate a more meek, humble, and dependent spirit before God and in your interactions with others?**
* **Considering the "poor among men," how might this verse inspire and equip you to advocate for, serve, or show compassion to the marginalized in your community or globally?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to be "meek" in a biblical sense, and how does it relate to strength?**

Answer: In a biblical sense, "meek" (Hebrew: *ʻânâv*, H6035) does not imply weakness, timidity, or a lack of conviction. Rather, it describes a humble, gentle, and submissive spirit, particularly in relation to God. It characterizes someone who is afflicted or lowly in circumstance, leading them to depend entirely on God for justice, vindication, and provision. It's a disposition of heart that acknowledges one's own limitations and God's absolute sovereignty, often characterized by patience, endurance, and quiet trust under suffering. Biblical meekness is strength under control, a power that chooses not to assert itself but to yield to God's will, as exemplified by Moses, who was described as "very meek, more than all people who were on the face of the earth" ([Numbers 12:3](/numbers/12-3 "Numbers 12:3 - Moses' Unparalleled Meekness")).

**How can joy "increase" in the Lord, and what is its source?**

Answer: Joy in the Lord is not a static emotion but a dynamic, spiritual reality that increases as our relationship with Him deepens, as we grow in faith, obedience, and a more profound understanding of His character, promises, and redemptive work. It's an ever-expanding experience that flourishes through spiritual maturity, even amidst trials, and a deeper appreciation of God's sovereign grace and unwavering faithfulness. As we learn to trust Him more fully, surrender our anxieties, and fix our gaze on His unfailing love, our spiritual joy—which is rooted in His presence and promises, not external circumstances—expands and becomes more profound. This is a joy independent of worldly conditions, as highlighted by Paul's exhortation to "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!" ([Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Paul's Exhortation to Rejoice in the Lord")). Its ultimate source is God Himself, the "God of hope," who fills us with all joy and peace in believing.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 29:19 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential embodiment of true meekness, declaring Himself to be "gentle and lowly in heart" ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Invitation: Gentle and Lowly in Heart")), inviting all who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently identified with and ministered to the "poor among men," not merely the materially destitute but also the spiritually impoverished, the outcasts, and all who recognized their desperate need for God's grace and salvation (e.g., [Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus' Inaugural Sermon and Mission to the Poor")). He taught that the "poor in spirit" and the "meek" are truly blessed, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven and they shall inherit the earth ([Matthew 5:3-5](/matthew/5-3-5 "Matthew 5:3-5 - The Beatitudes: Blessings for the Humble and Righteous")). Furthermore, Jesus is revealed as the very "Holy One of Israel" in whom all true, increasing joy is found. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, He secured the ultimate reversal of fortunes for all who believe, transforming sorrow into everlasting joy and spiritual poverty into an inheritance of abundant life ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Jesus Promises Abundant Life")). Believers, united with Christ, experience an increasing joy not based on fleeting worldly circumstances but on the indwelling Holy Spirit and the unshakeable assurance of salvation and eternal life ([Romans 15:13](/romans/15-13 "Romans 15:13 - The God of Hope Fills with Joy and Peace")). Thus, the prophetic promise of Isaiah 29:19 is realized in the new covenant community, where those who humble themselves before God through faith in Christ find their ultimate delight, vindication, and eternal joy in Him.

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

James 2:5

Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

Isaiah 61:1

¶ The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;

Matthew 11:29

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

Matthew 11:5

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

Psalms 25:9

The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

Matthew 5:5

Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

James 1:9

Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: