Isaiah 42:11

KJV

Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice], the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let the wilderness {H4057} and the cities {H5892} thereof lift up {H5375} their voice, the villages {H2691} that Kedar {H6938} doth inhabit {H3427}: let the inhabitants {H3427} of the rock {H5553} sing {H7442}, let them shout {H6681} from the top {H7218} of the mountains {H2022}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Let the desert and its cities raise their voices, the villages where Kedar lives; let those living in Sela shout for joy; let them cry out from the mountaintops!

Berean Standard Bible

Let the desert and its cities raise their voices; let the villages of Kedar cry aloud. Let the people of Sela sing for joy; let them cry out from the mountaintops.

American Standard Version

Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up their voice, the villages that Kedar doth inhabit; let the inhabitants of Sela sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 42:11 serves as a vibrant poetic expansion of the universal call to praise initiated in the preceding verse, dramatically extending the invitation to adoration to the most unexpected and remote corners of the earth. It envisions a global chorus of worship for the Lord, specifically highlighting those dwelling in desolate regions, nomadic encampments, and fortified mountainous areas, thereby underscoring the boundless reach of God's redemptive plan and the far-reaching impact of His Servant's work. This verse powerfully declares that no place or people group is beyond the scope of divine salvation and the subsequent outpouring of spontaneous, joyful praise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of the first of Isaiah's four "Servant Songs" (specifically, [Isaiah 42:1-9](/isaiah/42 "Isaiah 42 - The First Servant Song")), which introduces the Lord's chosen Servant. This Servant is depicted as one endowed with the Spirit, whose mission is to bring justice and light not only to Israel but also to the nations, the Gentiles. Following the Servant's commission and the declaration of God's unique glory (as seen in [Isaiah 42:8](/isaiah/42-8 "Isaiah 42:8 - God's Sole Glory")), [Isaiah 42:10](/isaiah/42-10 "Isaiah 42:10 - A New Song to the Lord") issues a grand command to "sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth." Verse 11 then concretizes this global call to worship, identifying specific, geographically and culturally diverse groups who will participate in this unprecedented chorus of praise, thereby emphasizing the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "Kedar" is particularly significant. Kedar (H6938) refers to a prominent nomadic Arab tribe, descendants of Ishmael ([Genesis 25:13](/genesis/25-13 "Genesis 25:13 - Descendants of Ishmael")), known for their black tents and dwelling in the Arabian desert. They were often associated with trade and warfare, representing peoples outside the traditional covenant community of Israel. Their inclusion signifies that God's redemptive plan extends beyond the settled nations to the nomadic, often independent, peoples of the desert. The "inhabitants of the rock" (H5553) likely refers to those dwelling in rugged, fortified mountainous regions, such as Edom (Petra) or other strongholds in the Near East. These groups, often perceived as isolated or hostile, are also summoned to praise, reinforcing the universal and inclusive nature of God's sovereignty and salvation.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme resonating throughout [Isaiah 42](/isaiah/42 "Isaiah 42 - The Servant of the Lord") and powerfully encapsulated in verse 11 is **Universal Praise and Inclusivity**. The prophecy boldly declares that God's salvation and glory are not exclusive to Israel but are destined to encompass all peoples, even those in remote or seemingly inhospitable regions. This underscores the profound truth that God desires praise from every nation, tribe, people, and language, a vision that culminates in the New Testament's portrayal of the redeemed multitude before the throne ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). Another key theme is **God's Global Sovereignty**, as the command for the "wilderness" and "mountains" to participate in worship illustrates God's ultimate authority over all creation and all humanity. Finally, the verse speaks to the **Transformative Impact of the Servant's Work**, anticipating a future where the knowledge of the Lord's glory will cover the earth, prompting spontaneous and joyous celebration as a direct result of the Servant's mission to bring justice and salvation to the ends of the earth ([Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **wilderness (Hebrew, _midbâr'_):** From H4057, meaning a pasture or desert. In this context, it refers to desolate, uncultivated, and often uninhabited regions. Its inclusion in the call to praise is striking, as it represents places typically devoid of human settlement and, by extension, human worship. The "cities thereof" suggests that even the sparse settlements within these wild regions are to participate.
* **Kedar (Hebrew, _Qêdâr'_):** From H6938, referring to a son of Ishmael and, collectively, to a nomadic Bedouin tribe known for dwelling in the Arabian desert. Their mention specifically names a non-Israelite, often independent, and geographically distant people group, signifying the truly global and inclusive nature of the divine call to worship.
* **sing (Hebrew, _rânan'_):** From H7442, a primitive root meaning to creak or emit a stridulous sound, but primarily used to mean to shout, usually for joy; to rejoice or triumph. This verb conveys an unbridled, exuberant, and joyful expression of worship, indicating a spontaneous and heartfelt response to God's redemptive work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up [their voice]":** This clause personifies the desolate and sparsely populated regions, commanding them to join the chorus of praise. The "cities thereof" indicates that even the scattered settlements within these wild areas are included, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the call. "Lift up [their voice]" (H5375, _nâsâʼ_) signifies a loud, public declaration of praise, an open and uninhibited expression.
* **"the villages [that] Kedar doth inhabit":** This specifies a particular nomadic people group, the Kedarites (H6938), known for dwelling in tents and villages (H2691, _châtsêr_) in the Arabian desert. Their inclusion explicitly extends the call to those outside the traditional Israelite sphere, highlighting God's desire for all peoples (H3427, _yâshab_ - to inhabit/dwell) to worship Him.
* **"let the inhabitants of the rock sing":** This phrase likely refers to people dwelling in craggy, fortified mountainous regions (H5553, _çelaʻ_ - rock/stronghold), perhaps like Edom or other rugged areas. The command to "sing" (H7442, _rânan_) reiterates the joyful and vocal nature of the worship expected from these geographically isolated or seemingly inaccessible peoples.
* **"let them shout from the top of the mountains":** This final clause intensifies the call to praise, commanding these inhabitants to "shout" (H6681, _tsâvach_ - to screech exultingly) from the highest points (H7218, _rôʼsh_ - top) of the mountains (H2022, _har_). The image of shouting from mountaintops signifies an uncontainable, far-reaching, and public declaration of God's glory, visible and audible to all.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 42:11 is rich in **Personification**, where the "wilderness" and its "cities" are given the human capacity to "lift up their voice," as if the very landscape is joining the chorus of praise. This device vividly portrays the comprehensive nature of God's sovereignty, extending even to the inanimate world. **Hyperbole** is also evident in the expansive scope of the command, suggesting an almost unimaginable, all-encompassing worship that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The verse employs powerful **Imagery**, painting a picture of remote deserts, nomadic encampments, and rugged mountain peaks erupting in joyous song and shouts. This vivid imagery underscores the universality of God's redemptive plan and the profound impact of the Servant's mission. Furthermore, the **Parallelism** between "sing" and "shout," and between "wilderness" and "Kedar," reinforces the central message of widespread, enthusiastic praise from diverse and unexpected sources.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 42:11 stands as a profound theological statement on the expansive nature of God's redemptive plan, revealing His heart for all humanity, not just Israel. It anticipates a future where the knowledge of the Lord's glory will not be confined to a single nation but will extend to the "ends of the earth," prompting a spontaneous and joyous response from every corner. This vision of universal praise is a direct consequence of the Servant's mission to bring justice and light to the Gentiles, demonstrating that God's covenant promises ultimately encompass all peoples. The inclusion of the "wilderness," "Kedar," and "inhabitants of the rock" highlights God's sovereign authority over all creation and His desire to reconcile even the most estranged or isolated communities to Himself, inviting them into a relationship of worship and adoration. This prophetic declaration lays the groundwork for the New Testament's emphasis on the Great Commission and the global reach of the Gospel.

* [Psalm 67:1-3](/psalm/67-1 "Psalm 67:1-3 - God's Blessing and Global Knowledge")
* [Romans 15:9-12](/romans/15-9 "Romans 15:9-12 - Gentiles Glorifying God")
* [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 42:11 calls us to expand our vision of God's kingdom beyond our immediate communities and cultural comfort zones. It challenges us to embrace a global perspective on God's redemptive work, recognizing that His desire is for every people group, from the most populated cities to the most remote wildernesses, to come to know Him and offer Him praise. This verse should ignite within us a passion for missions and evangelism, compelling us to participate in God's grand plan to gather worshippers from every nation. It also reminds us that true worship is not confined to sacred spaces or formal liturgies but can erupt spontaneously and joyfully from any heart touched by God's grace, even from those we might consider "unlikely" or "outsiders." Embracing this inclusivity means actively seeking to welcome and integrate people from all backgrounds into the body of Christ, celebrating the diverse expressions of worship that reflect the multifaceted glory of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of the "wilderness" and "Kedar" lifting their voices challenge my preconceived notions about who is included in God's redemptive plan?**
* **In what ways can I personally contribute to the global chorus of praise that Isaiah 42:11 envisions?**
* **How might my local church better reflect the universal and inclusive nature of God's call to worship?**
* **What does it mean for me to "shout from the top of the mountains" in my own context, expressing uninhibited joy in God?**

### FAQ
**Why does Isaiah specifically mention "Kedar" and "inhabitants of the rock" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The specific mention of "Kedar" and "inhabitants of the rock" is highly significant because it emphasizes the truly universal and inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan. Kedar (H6938) refers to a nomadic Arab tribe, descendants of Ishmael, known for dwelling in the Arabian desert. They represent peoples outside the traditional covenant community of Israel, often seen as distant or even hostile. Similarly, "inhabitants of the rock" (H5553) likely refers to those dwelling in rugged, fortified mountainous regions, such as Edom (Petra) or other seemingly inaccessible strongholds. By including these groups, Isaiah underscores that God's salvation and call to worship are not limited to a single nation or geographical area but extend to all peoples, even those considered remote, wild, or historically estranged from Israel. This highlights the boundless reach of the Servant's mission to bring light to the Gentiles ([Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")) and the ultimate desire of God for all creation to offer Him praise ([Psalm 67:1-3](/psalm/67-1 "Psalm 67:1-3 - God's Blessing and Global Knowledge")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 42:11 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Servant of the Lord. The prophetic call for the "wilderness," "Kedar," and "inhabitants of the rock" to lift their voices in praise is realized through the global expansion of the Gospel, initiated by Christ's life, death, and resurrection. Jesus, as the true light to the Gentiles ([Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - A Light for Revelation to the Gentiles")), broke down the dividing wall of hostility between Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). His Great Commission to His disciples—to "go and make disciples of all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission"))—directly translates this ancient prophecy into a living reality. The "new song" of [Isaiah 42:10](/isaiah/42-10 "Isaiah 42:10 - A New Song to the Lord") becomes the song of redemption sung by a multitude from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation, as envisioned in [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation"). Through Christ, the once-estranged and isolated peoples, symbolized by the "wilderness" and "Kedar," are brought near and empowered by the Holy Spirit to join the universal chorus, shouting His praises from the "top of the mountains," declaring His glory to the ends of the earth ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")).

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 32:16

Then judgment shall dwell in the wilderness, and righteousness remain in the fruitful field.

Isaiah 60:7

All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.

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.

Isaiah 41:19

I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, [and] the pine, and the box tree together:

Psalms 72:8

He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.

Psalms 72:10

The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

Nahum 1:15

Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace! O Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked shall no more pass through thee; he is utterly cut off.