Isaiah 32:17

KJV

And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the work {H4639} of righteousness {H6666} shall be peace {H7965}; and the effect {H5656} of righteousness {H6666} quietness {H8252} and assurance {H983} for {H5704} ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The effect of righteousness will be peace; the result of righteousness, quiet trust forever.

Berean Standard Bible

The work of righteousness will be peace; the service of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever.

American Standard Version

And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness, quietness and confidence for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 32:17 profoundly declares the inherent and enduring connection between righteous living and a state of comprehensive well-being. It posits that the active pursuit and manifestation of righteousness will inevitably result in a deep, abiding peace, accompanied by a settled quietness and unshakeable assurance that lasts eternally. This verse serves as a foundational promise, illustrating God's established order where moral uprightness is the direct pathway to spiritual and existential tranquility and security, contrasting sharply with the instability brought by unrighteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 32:17 is situated within a prophetic section (chapters 28-33) that addresses Judah's reliance on human alliances rather than God, alternating between pronouncements of judgment and promises of future restoration. Specifically, chapter 32 shifts from lamenting the complacency and impending desolation of the "daughters who are at ease" (`/isaiah/32-9`) and the desolation of the land (`/isaiah/32-14`) to a dramatic vision of renewal. This shift is catalyzed by the promise of the Spirit being poured out from on high (`/isaiah/32-15`), transforming the wilderness into a fruitful field and the fruitful field into a forest. It is in this divinely initiated era of spiritual renewal and the establishment of a just kingdom, ruled by a righteous king (`/isaiah/32-1 "Isaiah 32:1 - A Righteous King to Reign"`), that the profound tranquility described in verse 17 becomes a tangible reality. The verse thus functions as a direct consequence and hallmark of this promised messianic age of justice and spiritual transformation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies of Isaiah were delivered during a tumultuous period for Judah, marked by the rising Assyrian empire and the constant threat of invasion. The people often sought security in political alliances (e.g., with Egypt) rather than trusting in God, leading to spiritual complacency and social injustice. Isaiah's message frequently condemned this moral decay and warned of impending judgment, but also offered hope for a future restoration under God's sovereign hand. Culturally, "righteousness" (Hebrew: *tsedeq* or *tsedaqah*) in ancient Israel was not merely individual piety but encompassed social justice, ethical conduct, and conformity to God's covenantal standards. "Peace" (*shalom*) was a comprehensive concept extending beyond the absence of conflict to include wholeness, prosperity, and well-being in all aspects of life—individual, communal, and national. The promise of "quietness and assurance for ever" would have resonated deeply with a people living under constant threat and uncertainty, longing for a stable and secure future.

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully articulates several key themes prevalent in Isaiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the **fruit of righteousness**, portraying it not as an abstract virtue but as an active "work" or "effect" that yields tangible, positive outcomes, specifically peace, quietness, and assurance. This underscores the biblical principle of sowing and reaping, where godly living produces blessed results. Secondly, it emphasizes **comprehensive *shalom***, using the rich Hebrew term for "peace" that denotes wholeness, harmony, and flourishing in every dimension of existence, contrasting with the superficial or temporary peace offered by human efforts. Thirdly, the phrase "quietness and assurance for ever" points to **lasting security and stability**, a deep, unshakeable confidence and tranquility that transcends temporal circumstances. This divine steadfastness is a hallmark of God's covenant faithfulness and the blessings of His kingdom, offering a stark contrast to the fleeting nature of worldly security. Finally, the verse implicitly speaks to **divine order and justice**, affirming that true societal and individual well-being is intrinsically linked to adherence to God's righteous standards, establishing a moral universe where justice and peace are inextricably bound. This theme is echoed throughout the prophetic literature, such as in [Psalm 85:10](/psalms/85-10 "Psalm 85:10 - Righteousness and Peace Kiss Each Other").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Work (Hebrew, _maʻăseh'_):** Derived from the verb "to do" or "to make," this term signifies an action, deed, or product. In Isaiah 32:17, it emphasizes the active, tangible nature of righteousness. It's not merely a state of being but something performed or manifested. The "work of righteousness" implies the practical outworking of justice, integrity, and conformity to God's will in daily life, producing discernible results.
* **Peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** This is the well-known Hebrew concept of *shalom*, which is far more expansive than the English "peace." It encompasses wholeness, completeness, well-being, health, prosperity, harmony, and safety. It signifies a state of flourishing in all aspects—physical, spiritual, social, and psychological. The verse declares that righteousness actively generates this holistic *shalom*, indicating a profound state of flourishing and absence of discord, both internally and externally.
* **Assurance (Hebrew, _beṭach'_):** This word conveys the idea of safety, security, and confidence. It stems from a root meaning "to trust" or "to be confident." In this context, "assurance" denotes an unshakeable inner certainty and external stability, a profound sense of security that comes from being in right relationship with God and living according to His ways. It implies freedom from fear, anxiety, and doubt, grounded in divine protection and steadfastness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the work of righteousness shall be peace":** This initial clause establishes a direct, causal relationship. The active manifestation of righteousness—living justly, ethically, and in conformity to God's standards—is presented as the very source or generator of *shalom*. It implies that peace is not merely a passive state but a dynamic outcome produced by righteous deeds and character.
* **"and the effect of righteousness quietness":** This parallel clause reinforces the previous statement, using "effect" (Hebrew, *ʻăbôdâh* H5656, meaning "work" or "service") to further emphasize the tangible results of righteousness. "Quietness" (Hebrew, *shâqaṭ* H8252) denotes tranquility, stillness, and repose, suggesting a calm and undisturbed state of mind and circumstance. This quietness is a direct dividend of living uprightly, contrasting with the turmoil and unrest often associated with injustice.
* **"and assurance for ever."**: This final phrase amplifies the depth and duration of the blessings. "Assurance" (Hebrew, *beṭach* H983) speaks to profound security and confidence, a settled trust that banishes fear. The addition of "for ever" (Hebrew, *ʻad ʻôwlâm* H5704 H5769) underscores the eternal, perpetual nature of this peace, quietness, and assurance. It is not a temporary calm but an everlasting state of divine steadfastness and security, guaranteed by God's righteous order.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 32:17 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. Primarily, it utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where the second half of the verse ("and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever") largely reiterates and expands upon the first ("And the work of righteousness shall be peace"). This repetition with slight variation serves to emphasize the core message and enrich its meaning, ensuring the reader grasps the multifaceted benefits of righteousness. The verse also employs **Cause and Effect** as its central structural principle, clearly articulating that righteousness (the cause) directly produces peace, quietness, and assurance (the effects). This establishes a moral and spiritual law within God's created order. Furthermore, the use of abstract nouns like "work," "effect," "peace," "quietness," and "assurance" to describe the outcomes of righteousness functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where the abstract qualities stand in for the tangible experiences and blessings they represent. Finally, the phrase "for ever" provides a powerful element of **Hyperbole** or **Emphasis**, underscoring the enduring and eternal nature of the promised blessings, contrasting with the fleeting nature of worldly security.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 32:17 articulates a profound theological truth: God's moral order is inherently designed such that righteousness is the pathway to true peace and security. This principle is not merely a promise but a reflection of God's own character, as He is a God of justice and peace. The verse links human conduct directly to divine blessing, demonstrating that living in alignment with God's will brings about not only internal tranquility but also external stability and prosperity. It anticipates a future where God's kingdom, characterized by perfect righteousness, will usher in an era of unparalleled *shalom*. This concept is foundational to biblical teaching, emphasizing that genuine well-being is inextricably tied to a right relationship with God and obedient living.

* [Psalm 119:165](/psalms/119-165 "Psalm 119:165 - Great Peace for Those Who Love God's Law")
* [Proverbs 3:1-2](/proverbs/3-1-2 "Proverbs 3:1-2 - Long Life and Peace from Wisdom")
* [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 32:17 offers a timeless and deeply encouraging message for believers navigating a world often marked by anxiety, conflict, and uncertainty. It calls us to recognize that true, lasting peace and security are not found in external circumstances, material possessions, or human strategies, but in the active pursuit and embodiment of righteousness. This means diligently striving to live in integrity, justice, and obedience to God's Word in every sphere of life—our thoughts, words, actions, and relationships. When we prioritize God's standards and seek to do what is right in His eyes, we unlock a divine pathway to inner quietness and an unshakeable assurance that transcends fleeting troubles. This verse encourages us to trust in God's established order, knowing that His promises are steadfast and that a life committed to righteousness yields eternal dividends of peace and security, providing a stable anchor in turbulent times.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I actively pursue righteousness, and how does that pursuit contribute to my sense of peace and assurance?**
* **How does the biblical concept of *shalom* (wholeness, well-being) challenge my understanding of "peace" in today's world?**
* **What specific actions can I take this week to align my "work" and "effect" more closely with God's righteousness?**
* **How does the promise of "quietness and assurance for ever" impact my perspective on current anxieties or uncertainties?**

### FAQ

**What does "the work of righteousness" specifically mean in this verse?**

Answer: "The work of righteousness" (Hebrew: *maʻăseh tsᵉdâqâh*) refers to the active, practical outworking of justice, moral integrity, and conformity to God's divine standards in one's daily life. It's not merely a passive state of being righteous but involves concrete deeds, ethical choices, and a lifestyle that reflects God's character. This concept emphasizes that righteousness is a dynamic process, a "doing" that yields tangible results, rather than just an abstract virtue. It aligns with other biblical calls to action, such as [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - To Do Justice, Love Kindness, and Walk Humbly").

**How does this verse relate to the concept of *shalom* (peace) in the Old Testament?**

Answer: Isaiah 32:17 uses the rich Hebrew term *shâlôwm* (peace), which is far more comprehensive than the English word. *Shalom* encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also wholeness, completeness, well-being, health, prosperity, harmony, and safety in all aspects of life—spiritual, physical, social, and psychological. The verse teaches that this holistic state of flourishing is a direct result of righteousness. It's a divinely established principle that living in right relationship with God and others, according to His just ways, leads to a profound and comprehensive state of well-being, both individually and communally.

**Does "for ever" imply an immediate or future fulfillment of this promise?**

Answer: The phrase "for ever" (Hebrew: *ʻad ʻôwlâm*) indicates a perpetual, enduring, and eternal quality. In the immediate context of Isaiah 32, it points to the lasting peace and security that will characterize the future messianic kingdom, a time when a righteous king will reign (`/isaiah/32-1`). While believers can experience aspects of this peace and assurance in the present through faith and righteous living, the ultimate and complete fulfillment of "for ever" points to the eschatological reality of God's eternal kingdom, where perfect righteousness will reign supreme, bringing everlasting peace and security without end. This dual fulfillment—both present experience and future consummation—is common in prophetic literature.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 32:17 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The prophecy of a righteous king who would bring justice and peace (`/isaiah/32-1 "Isaiah 32:1 - A King Will Reign in Righteousness"`) is perfectly realized in Jesus, who is the embodiment of divine righteousness. He lived a life of perfect obedience to God's will, fulfilling all righteousness (`/matthew/3-15 "Matthew 3:15 - Jesus Fulfills All Righteousness"`), and through His atoning sacrifice, He became "our righteousness" (`/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Righteousness"`). Therefore, the "work of righteousness" that produces peace is not merely human effort but primarily the redemptive work of Christ. It is through faith in Him that believers are declared righteous (`/romans/3-22 "Romans 3:22 - Righteousness Through Faith in Jesus Christ"`) and receive the peace that surpasses all understanding (`/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God"`) and an unshakeable assurance (`/hebrews/10-22 "Hebrews 10:22 - Full Assurance of Faith"`). The "quietness and assurance for ever" are guaranteed by His eternal reign as the Prince of Peace (`/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace"`), establishing a kingdom that is "righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (`/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God"`) and will have no end (`/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - His Kingdom Will Never End"`). Thus, the peace and security promised in Isaiah 32:17 are ultimately gifts of God, mediated through Christ's perfect righteousness and His finished work on the cross.

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 26:3

Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee.

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:9

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Psalms 119:165

¶ Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.

Psalms 85:8

¶ I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.