Isaiah 55:12

KJV

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands.

KJV (with Strong's)

For ye shall go out {H3318} with joy {H8057}, and be led forth {H2986} with peace {H7965}: the mountains {H2022} and the hills {H1389} shall break forth {H6476} before {H6440} you into singing {H7440}, and all the trees {H6086} of the field {H7704} shall clap {H4222} their hands {H3709}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, you will go out with joy, you will be led forth in peace. As you come, the mountains and hills will burst out into song, and all the trees in the countryside will clap their hands.

Berean Standard Bible

You will indeed go out with joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.

American Standard Version

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing; and all the trees of the fields shall clap their hands.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 55:12 is a powerful prophetic declaration of God's redemptive work, portraying the joyous and peaceful restoration of His people, culminating in a celebration so profound that even creation itself participates. It serves as a vivid poetic assurance of divine leading and the ultimate triumph of God's covenant faithfulness, transforming sorrow into exuberant delight and desolation into a harmonious symphony of praise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is nestled within the latter half of the book of Isaiah, often referred to as "Second Isaiah" (chapters 40-55 or 40-66), a section renowned for its messages of comfort, hope, and restoration for Israel. Specifically, Isaiah 55 is a climactic chapter, serving as a grand invitation to all who thirst for spiritual nourishment and salvation. It begins with an open call to "everyone who thirsts, come to the waters" [Isaiah 55:1](/isaiah/55-1 "Isaiah 55 - The Great Invitation"), emphasizing God's free and abundant grace. The preceding verses (Isaiah 55:10-11) speak of the unstoppable power and effectiveness of God's Word, likening it to rain and snow that accomplish their purpose, ensuring that God's promises will not return to Him empty. Verse 12, therefore, stands as a glorious outcome and tangible manifestation of the Word's efficacy, depicting the joyful return and flourishing of God's people as a direct result of His unfailing promises. It transitions from the theological assurance of God's Word to the experiential reality of His people's restoration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The primary historical context for Isaiah 40-55 is the Babylonian exile, a period of immense suffering, displacement, and spiritual despair for the Jewish people. Having been conquered and deported from their homeland, they longed for liberation and restoration. Isaiah's prophecy, delivered centuries before the actual return, offered a message of profound hope, promising a divinely orchestrated exodus from Babylon that would surpass even the first exodus from Egypt in its glory and miraculous nature. The imagery of a peaceful journey through a transformed wilderness (as hinted in earlier chapters like [Isaiah 43:19](/isaiah/43-19 "Isaiah 43:19 - New Things in the Wilderness")) and nature's rejoicing would have resonated deeply with a people yearning for their land and the renewal of their covenant relationship with God. Culturally, the concept of a divine "leading forth" (similar to a shepherd guiding his flock) was deeply ingrained in ancient Israelite thought, signifying protection, provision, and purpose. The anthropomorphic portrayal of nature was also common in ancient Near Eastern poetry, used to express profound emotional or spiritual significance, elevating the event to a cosmic scale.
* **Key Themes:** Isaiah 55:12 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes found within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. Central among these is **Divine Restoration**, highlighting God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to bring His scattered people back to their land and to spiritual vitality, as seen in [Isaiah 49:8-13](/isaiah/49-8 "Isaiah 49:8-13 - God's Promise to Restore Israel"). The verse also emphasizes **Abundant Joy and Peace** as the hallmarks of God's redemptive work, contrasting sharply with the sorrow and turmoil of exile. This joy is not merely an emotion but a divinely bestowed state of well-being, reflecting the Shalom (peace) that God provides, a concept deeply explored in [Psalm 29:11](/psalm/29-11 "Psalm 29:11 - The Lord Blesses His People with Peace"). Furthermore, the imagery of nature's participation underscores the theme of **Cosmic Harmony and Creation's Praise**. God's redemptive acts are so grand that they resonate throughout the entire created order, signaling a restoration that affects not just humanity but the very fabric of the cosmos, a theme echoed in [Psalm 148:7-13](/psalm/148-7 "Psalm 148:7-13 - All Creation Praises the Lord"). Finally, the verse speaks to **The Efficacy of God's Word and Promises**, demonstrating that God's declarations of salvation and blessing are not idle but bring about tangible and glorious realities, a truth foundational to [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - The Power of God's Word").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **go out (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** H3318 - This primitive root signifies "to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively." In this context, it denotes a physical departure, specifically from captivity, but imbued with the spiritual significance of liberation and initiation into a new, blessed state. It implies a divinely orchestrated exit, not merely an escape, but a purposeful leading into freedom.
* **peace (Hebrew, _shâlôwm'_):** H7965 - More than just the absence of conflict, _shalom_ encompasses a holistic state of well-being, completeness, prosperity, health, and harmony. It signifies wholeness in every aspect of life – spiritual, physical, social, and relational. Here, it describes the profound tranquility and security that accompanies God's guidance, ensuring a journey free from anxiety and filled with divine favor.
* **break forth (Hebrew, _pâtsach'_):** H6476 - This primitive root means "to break out (in joyful sound); break (forth, forth into joy), make a loud noise." It conveys an explosive, spontaneous outburst of sound, specifically joyful singing. Applied to mountains and hills, it vividly portrays an irrepressible, overwhelming expression of delight, suggesting that the very landscape cannot contain its celebratory response to God's redemptive work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For ye shall go out with joy,"**: This clause initiates the promise, directly addressing the exiles and assuring them of their future departure from their current state of oppression. The journey is not merely a physical relocation but is characterized by an internal, profound sense of "joy" (_simchâh_). This joy is a divinely bestowed attribute, transforming the hardship of exile into an exuberant release, marking the beginning of their restoration.
* **"and be led forth with peace:"**: Complementing the initial promise of joy, this phrase emphasizes the divine guidance and the tranquil nature of their return. The passive voice "be led forth" (from _yâbal_) highlights God as the active agent, orchestrating their journey. The accompanying "peace" (_shâlôwm_) signifies not just an absence of conflict but a comprehensive well-being, security, and harmony that envelops their journey, assuring them of God's protective presence and the ultimate success of their restoration.
* **"the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing,"**: This is where the imagery becomes strikingly vivid. The inanimate elements of nature—the "mountains" (_har_) and "hills" (_gibʻâh_)—are personified, depicted as spontaneously bursting into "singing" (_rinnâh_). This powerful **anthropomorphism** signifies that the scope of God's redemptive act is so immense and glorious that even the natural world cannot remain silent but joins in the celebration, acknowledging the divine triumph. The phrase "before you" implies that this cosmic celebration is directly witnessed by and performed in honor of the returning people.
* **"and all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands."**: This second half of the nature imagery continues the **personification**, attributing another human action—"clapping hands" (_mâchâʼ_ and _kaph_)—to the "trees of the field" (_ʻêts_ and _sâdeh_). Clapping hands is a universal gesture of applause, approval, and joyous acclamation. This further emphasizes the universal, cosmic rejoicing over God's redemptive work. The "trees of the field" represent the broader natural landscape, reinforcing the idea that the entire creation participates in and affirms the divine restoration, transforming the desolate wilderness into a vibrant, celebratory landscape.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 55:12 is rich with **Personification** and **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human qualities and actions (singing, clapping hands) to inanimate objects (mountains, hills, trees). This is not meant to be taken literally but serves to convey the profound impact and cosmic significance of God's redemptive work. The use of these devices creates a vivid and memorable image, suggesting that the joy and peace accompanying God's people are so immense that the entire created order cannot help but participate in the celebration. This is also an example of **Hyperbole**, as the literal singing of mountains and clapping of trees exaggerates the reality to emphasize the overwhelming nature of the divine triumph and the universal rejoicing it evokes. The verse also employs striking **Imagery**, painting a picture of a transformed landscape that mirrors the transformed hearts and circumstances of God's people, moving from a state of desolation to one of vibrant, harmonious celebration.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 55:12 is a profound theological statement on God's character and His redemptive plan. It reveals a God who not only delivers His people from bondage but does so with overflowing joy and complete peace, transforming their journey into a celebration. This divine restoration is so comprehensive that it extends beyond humanity, inviting the entire creation to participate in the praise, underscoring the holistic and cosmic nature of God's sovereignty and salvation. It speaks to the ultimate hope of a renewed creation, where all things align in harmony with God's will, a future where sorrow and groaning are replaced by universal rejoicing. This vision assures believers that God's promises are steadfast, leading to a future marked by His enduring faithfulness and the flourishing of His people.

* [Psalm 96:11-12](/psalm/96-11 "Let the Heavens Rejoice, Let the Earth Be Glad")
* [Psalm 98:7-9](/psalm/98-7 "Let the Sea Roar and the Rivers Clap Their Hands")
* [Romans 8:19-21](/romans/8-19 "Creation Groans and Awaits Redemption")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 55:12 offers profound encouragement for believers navigating life's challenges. It reminds us that our spiritual journey, though it may involve seasons of wilderness or exile, is ultimately guided by a faithful God who promises to lead us "out with joy, and be led forth with peace." This verse encourages us to cultivate an eschatological hope, knowing that our ultimate destination is one of divine triumph and cosmic celebration, where even creation bears witness to God's goodness. It challenges us to look beyond immediate circumstances and embrace the larger narrative of God's redemptive plan, trusting that He is actively working to bring about wholeness, joy, and peace in our lives. Furthermore, it invites us to recognize the interconnectedness of all creation and to join in the chorus of praise, anticipating the day when all things will be made new and perfectly aligned with God's glorious purposes. Our present struggles are temporary; God's promised joy and peace are eternal.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to "go out with joy" or "be led forth with peace" by God?**
* **How does the imagery of creation singing and clapping hands impact your understanding of God's redemptive work?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live with more anticipation and joy, even amidst current challenges, based on the promises of God?**
* **How can you participate in the "singing" and "clapping hands" of creation by living a life that honors God and reflects His redemptive power?**

### FAQ

**Does Isaiah 55:12 imply that mountains and trees will literally sing and clap?**

Answer: No, Isaiah 55:12 uses **poetic language** and **literary devices** such as **personification** and **anthropomorphism**. These figures of speech attribute human actions and emotions (singing, clapping hands) to inanimate objects (mountains, hills, trees) to create a vivid and powerful image. The intent is not to describe a literal event but to convey the overwhelming, universal joy and celebration that will accompany God's redemptive work and the return of His people. It signifies that God's restoration is so grand and glorious that the entire creation will acknowledge and participate in the triumph, reflecting the harmony and renewal that will permeate the earth. This is a common biblical motif, as seen in other passages like [Psalm 98:8](/psalm/98-8 "Psalm 98:8 - The Rivers Clap Their Hands").

**What is the significance of "joy" and "peace" in this verse?**

Answer: "Joy" (Hebrew: _simchâh_) and "peace" (Hebrew: _shâlôwm_) are not merely fleeting emotions in this context but divinely bestowed states of being that characterize God's redemptive work. _Simchâh_ refers to a deep, abiding gladness and exultation, often associated with religious festivals and God's presence. _Shâlôwm_ is a comprehensive term meaning wholeness, completeness, prosperity, well-being, and harmony in every aspect of life. Their inclusion signifies that God's restoration brings about not just physical liberation but also profound spiritual and emotional flourishing. The journey of God's people will be marked by inner delight and tranquility, a testament to God's faithfulness and the blessed state of those under His care. These are the fruits of God's covenant with His people, as promised in [Isaiah 26:3](/isaiah/26-3 "Isaiah 26:3 - God Keeps in Perfect Peace").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 55:12, while historically pointing to the return from Babylonian exile, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the new creation He inaugurates. The "joy" and "peace" promised here are fully realized in the person and work of Christ, who is our true [Prince of Peace](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Jesus, Prince of Peace") and the source of all spiritual joy. Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, Christ leads His people "out" of the bondage of sin and death, ushering them into a new covenant marked by spiritual freedom and reconciliation with God. This spiritual exodus is far greater than any physical return, as believers are "led forth with peace" that "surpasses all understanding" ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "The Peace of God")). The cosmic rejoicing of mountains and trees foreshadows the grand culmination of God's redemptive plan in Christ, where not only humanity but all of creation will be liberated from its bondage to decay and share in the "glorious freedom of the children of God" ([Romans 8:21](/romans/8-21 "Creation's Hope for Redemption")). The new heaven and new earth, where righteousness dwells and there is no more sorrow or crying ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "The New Heaven and New Earth")), represent the ultimate fulfillment of this prophetic vision, a time when all creation will indeed "sing" and "clap its hands" in perfect harmony, celebrating the reign of the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God").

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

Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Isaiah 44:23

Sing, O ye heavens; for the LORD hath done [it]: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree therein: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and glorified himself in Israel.

Psalms 105:43

And he brought forth his people with joy, [and] his chosen with gladness:

Psalms 96:11

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.

Psalms 96:13

Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.

Romans 15:13

¶ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

Psalms 98:7

Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.