Isaiah 33:21

But there the glorious LORD [will be] unto us a place of broad rivers [and] streams; wherein shall go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby.

But there the glorious {H117} LORD {H3068} will be unto us a place {H4725} of broad {H7342}{H3027} rivers {H5104} and streams {H2975}; wherein shall go {H3212} no {H1077} galley {H590} with oars {H7885}, neither shall gallant {H117} ship {H6716} pass {H5674} thereby.

But there in his splendor ADONAI will be with us, in a place of rivers and broad streams. But no boat with oars will go there, no majestic ship will pass by.

But there the Majestic One, our LORD, will be for us a place of rivers and wide canals, where no galley with oars will row, and no majestic vessel will pass.

But there Jehovah will be with us in majesty, a place of broad rivers and streams, wherein shall go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby.

Isaiah 33:21 presents a beautiful prophetic vision of the peace, security, and abundant provision that God will provide for His people, particularly for Zion (Jerusalem), in a future glorious era. It contrasts sharply with the turmoil and judgment described earlier in the chapter, offering a glimpse of divine protection and blessing.

Context

Chapter 33 of Isaiah opens with a declaration of judgment against the oppressor (likely Assyria, a dominant military power of Isaiah's time), followed by the distress of God's people. However, the tone shifts dramatically, moving towards a powerful affirmation of God's sovereignty and His ultimate salvation for those who trust in Him. Verses 20-24 describe a secure and prosperous Zion, where God Himself is its ultimate defense and source of life. This verse is part of a larger promise of lasting peace and divine governance.

Key Themes

  • Divine Protection and Security: The imagery of "broad rivers and streams" traditionally signifies natural defense and abundant resources. However, the crucial point here is that God Himself is the "place" – the source of this security. Unlike earthly rivers used for military navigation, these divine "rivers" are safe from hostile forces, as "no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby." This illustrates a profound spiritual security provided by the glorious LORD.
  • Abundant Provision: Rivers and streams also symbolize life-giving sustenance and refreshment. In a land often prone to drought, this imagery speaks to God's generous and continuous provision for His people, ensuring their well-being and prosperity.
  • End of Hostility: The explicit mention that no warships will pass through these waters highlights the absolute cessation of military threats and invasions. It paints a picture of a future where God's people live in complete peace, free from fear of war or oppression. This resonates with the broader prophetic theme of a time when God will wipe away all tears and there will be no more sorrow.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "glorious LORD" uses the Hebrew word Yahweh (יהוה), God's covenant name, combined with an adjective emphasizing His majesty and splendor. The imagery of "broad rivers and streams" (Hebrew: נְהָרִים יְאֹרִים, neharim ye'orim) evokes large, flowing bodies of water, which in the ancient Near East were vital for life and trade, but also avenues for military invasion. The prophetic twist here is that God transforms this potential vulnerability into an impenetrable defense.

Practical Application

For believers today, Isaiah 33:21 offers immense comfort and hope. It reminds us that our ultimate security and provision come from the Lord. In a world full of uncertainties, conflicts, and challenges, this verse points to God as our unshakeable refuge and the source of all good things. It encourages us to trust in His sovereign protection, knowing that He is able to keep us in perfect peace, even when earthly circumstances are turbulent. It also looks forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom, where true and lasting peace will reign under His glorious presence.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 46:4

    [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.

  • Psalms 46:5

    God [is] in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, [and that] right early.

  • Isaiah 48:18

    O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea:

  • Isaiah 66:12

    For thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon [her] sides, and be dandled upon [her] knees.

  • Isaiah 41:18

    I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.

  • Acts 7:2

    And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,

  • 2 Corinthians 4:4

    In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

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