Isaiah 55:13

KJV

Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign [that] shall not be cut off.

KJV (with Strong's)

Instead of the thorn {H5285} shall come up {H5927} the fir tree {H1265}, and instead of the brier {H5636} shall come up {H5927} the myrtle tree {H1918}: and it shall be to the LORD {H3068} for a name {H8034}, for an everlasting {H5769} sign {H226} that shall not be cut off {H3772}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Cypresses will grow in place of thorns, myrtles will grow instead of briars. This will bring fame to ADONAI as an eternal, imperishable sign.

Berean Standard Bible

Instead of the thornbush, a cypress will grow, and instead of the brier, a myrtle will spring up; they will make a name for the LORD, an everlasting sign, never to be destroyed.”

American Standard Version

Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree; and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle-tree: and it shall be to Jehovah for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 55:13 culminates a profound invitation to salvation and restoration, painting a vivid picture of God's transformative power. This verse prophesies a radical reversal of the curse and desolation, where barren and harmful elements of creation are replaced by flourishing, beautiful, and useful trees. This miraculous transformation serves as an enduring testament to the Lord's character, faithfulness, and the eternal nature of His redemptive work, establishing an everlasting sign that will never be diminished or forgotten.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 55:13 concludes a majestic chapter, often considered the climax of Isaiah's "Book of Comfort" (chapters 40-66). This chapter is a divine invitation to all who are spiritually thirsty and hungry, promising abundant provision and spiritual nourishment (Isaiah 55:1-2). It emphasizes the freeness and richness of God's grace, contrasting it with human efforts. The preceding verses (Isaiah 55:10-11) powerfully declare the unwavering efficacy of God's word, likening it to rain and snow that accomplish their purpose and do not return to Him empty. Verse 12 then describes a joyful, triumphant procession of God's people, likely returning from exile, with creation itself participating in their celebration. Verse 13, therefore, serves as the triumphant conclusion, illustrating the tangible, visible outcome of God's powerful and effective word: a transformed creation reflecting a transformed people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Isaiah 40-66 are primarily addressed to the Jewish exiles in Babylon, offering hope of return and restoration. The imagery of "thorn" and "brier" immediately evokes the curse pronounced in [Genesis 3:18](/genesis/3-18 "Genesis 3:18 - The Curse on the Ground"), symbolizing desolation, hardship, and the effects of sin on creation. A land overgrown with thorns and briers was indicative of neglect, judgment, or wilderness. Conversely, the "fir tree" (cypress or pine) and "myrtle tree" were symbols of beauty, fertility, and prosperity. Myrtle trees, in particular, were used in festive celebrations like the Feast of Tabernacles ([Nehemiah 8:15](/nehemiah/8-15 "Nehemiah 8:15 - Myrtle Branches for Tabernacles")), signifying joy and peace. The transformation from a desolate landscape to one of flourishing trees would have resonated deeply with a people longing for their homeland's restoration and a return to God's favor and blessing.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, **Divine Transformation and Restoration** is central; it highlights God's ability to reverse the effects of sin and judgment, bringing forth new life and beauty from barrenness. This theme extends from personal spiritual renewal to the cosmic restoration of creation. Secondly, the phrase "to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign" underscores the theme of **God's Glory and Sovereignty**. The transformation is not merely for humanity's benefit but primarily to bring honor and renown to God, serving as a permanent, undeniable witness to His power, faithfulness, and redemptive character. This sign is "everlasting," emphasizing the **Enduring Nature of God's Covenant and Promises**, assuring His people that His work of salvation is eternal and will never be undone, unlike fleeting human achievements. This echoes the broader prophetic vision of a new heaven and new earth where sorrow and decay are no more, as seen in [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Sorrow").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Thorn (Hebrew, _naʻătsûwts'_):** From an unused root meaning "to prick," this word signifies a brier or a thicket of thorny bushes. In the biblical context, thorns are often associated with the curse on the ground after the fall of humanity ([Genesis 3:18](/genesis/3-18 "Genesis 3:18 - The Curse on the Ground")), symbolizing hardship, unfruitfulness, and desolation. Its replacement signifies the reversal of this curse and the advent of blessing.
* **Myrtle tree (Hebrew, _hădaç'_):** Of uncertain derivation, this refers to the myrtle tree, a beautiful, fragrant evergreen shrub. The myrtle was a symbol of peace, beauty, and prosperity, often used in festive occasions. Its presence signifies flourishing, joy, and the restoration of beauty and fruitfulness in place of barrenness.
* **Sign (Hebrew, _ʼôwth'_):** Probably from a root meaning "to appear," this term denotes a signal, mark, monument, omen, or evidence. In this context, the transformed creation serves as a tangible, visible testament or proof of God's powerful work and enduring faithfulness. It is a permanent marker of His redemptive activity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree":** This clause initiates the radical transformation, directly contrasting the symbols of desolation and hardship (the thorn) with a symbol of beauty and usefulness (the fir tree). It signifies a complete reversal of fortunes, where what was once unproductive and painful is replaced by something valuable and flourishing, indicating divine intervention and restoration.
* **"and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree":** This second parallel clause reinforces the theme of miraculous substitution. The brier, another symbol of barrenness and difficulty, is replaced by the myrtle tree, which represents peace, joy, and luxuriant growth. This doubling emphasizes the comprehensiveness and certainty of the promised transformation, highlighting God's ability to bring forth beauty from ashes.
* **"and it shall be to the LORD for a name":** This phrase clarifies the ultimate purpose and beneficiary of this magnificent transformation. The restored creation and, by extension, the restored people, serve to bring renown, honor, and glory to God. It is a public declaration of His character and power, making His "name" (His very being and reputation) known and exalted.
* **"for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off":** This concluding phrase underscores the permanence and unwavering nature of God's redemptive work. The transformation is not temporary but an "everlasting sign," a perpetual monument to His faithfulness. The assurance that it "shall not be cut off" emphasizes its eternal validity and the unbreakable nature of God's covenant promises, guaranteeing that this state of blessing and glory will endure forever.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 55:13 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Contrast**. The "thorn" and "brier" symbolize the curse, desolation, and the effects of sin, echoing the imagery from [Genesis 3:18](/genesis/3-18 "Genesis 3:18 - The Curse on the Ground"). In stark **Contrast**, the "fir tree" and "myrtle tree" symbolize beauty, fruitfulness, peace, and divine blessing. This direct substitution powerfully conveys the radical nature of God's restorative work. The phrase "it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign" employs **Metonymy**, where "name" stands for God's character, reputation, and glory, indicating that the transformed creation will be a perpetual witness to His greatness. The entire verse functions as a **Prophetic Vision**, painting a vivid picture of a future reality brought about by God's word, offering hope and assurance to His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 55:13 stands as a powerful testament to God's redemptive power and His commitment to a new creation. It speaks to the reversal of the curse of sin, promising a future where desolation is replaced by flourishing life, and sorrow by joy. This transformation is not merely for humanity's benefit but is ultimately "to the LORD for a name," revealing His glory and faithfulness to all generations. It underscores the enduring nature of God's covenant promises, assuring us that His work of salvation and restoration is eternal and irreversible, serving as an "everlasting sign" of His unwavering love and power.

* [Psalm 96:12-13](/psalms/96-12 "Psalm 96:12-13 - Let the Trees of the Field Rejoice")
* [Ezekiel 36:35-36](/ezekiel/36-35 "Ezekiel 36:35-36 - The Land Becomes Like the Garden of Eden")
* [Revelation 21:1-5](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-5 - A New Heaven and a New Earth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 55:13 offers profound encouragement and hope for believers today, reminding us that God is perpetually at work, transforming barrenness into beauty and desolation into flourishing life. This promise extends beyond a physical landscape to the spiritual realities of our lives and the world around us. Where sin, brokenness, or despair have left us feeling like a field of thorns and briers, this verse assures us that God's redemptive power can bring forth myrtle trees—beauty, peace, and fruitfulness. It calls us to trust in His word, which "shall not return void" ([Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Accomplish Its Purpose")), knowing that His ultimate purpose is to restore, renew, and glorify His name through our transformed lives. Our personal growth in holiness and love, our acts of compassion and justice, and our witness to His grace become living "signs" of His everlasting faithfulness in a world desperate for hope.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "thorns" or "briers" in your life or circumstances do you long for God to transform into "fir trees" or "myrtle trees"?**
* **How does the promise of an "everlasting sign" of God's faithfulness encourage you in times of doubt or struggle?**
* **In what ways can your transformed life serve "to the LORD for a name," bringing Him glory and being a testament to His power?**
* **How does this verse inspire you to participate in God's ongoing work of restoration in the world?**

### FAQ
**What is the primary message of Isaiah 55:13?**

Answer: The primary message of Isaiah 55:13 is God's promise of complete and lasting transformation and restoration. It declares that desolation and the effects of the curse will be reversed, replaced by beauty, fruitfulness, and joy. This miraculous change serves as an eternal testament to God's character, power, and unwavering faithfulness, bringing Him glory. It is the triumphant conclusion to God's gracious invitation to salvation found throughout [Isaiah 55](/isaiah/55 "Isaiah 55 - God's Gracious Invitation").

**How does the imagery of trees contribute to the verse's meaning?**

Answer: The imagery of trees is central to the verse's meaning through a powerful contrast. "Thorns" and "briers" symbolize the curse, barrenness, and hardship, reminiscent of the consequences of sin in [Genesis 3:18](/genesis/3-18 "Genesis 3:18 - The Curse on the Ground"). Conversely, "fir trees" and "myrtle trees" represent beauty, flourishing, peace, and God's blessing. The transformation from harmful, unproductive plants to beautiful, useful ones vividly illustrates God's ability to bring life and prosperity out of spiritual and physical wasteland, signifying a reversal of judgment and the establishment of a new, blessed order.

**What does it mean for the transformation to be "to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign"?**

Answer: This phrase emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of God's transformative work is to glorify Himself. "To the LORD for a name" means that the restored creation and the renewed people will publicly display God's character, power, and faithfulness, bringing Him honor and renown. It serves as "an everlasting sign" because it is a permanent, undeniable, and enduring witness to His redemptive work. This sign will "not be cut off," signifying its eternal validity and the unbreakable nature of God's covenant promises, assuring that His work of salvation is perpetual and secure. It points to the eternal kingdom where God's glory is fully revealed, as described in [Revelation 21:23](/revelation/21-23 "Revelation 21:23 - The Glory of God Lights the City").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 55:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The transformation from thorns and briers to fir and myrtle trees powerfully foreshadows the reversal of the curse of sin and death accomplished through Christ's atoning work. The "thorn" directly evokes the crown of thorns placed on Jesus' head ([Matthew 27:29](/matthew/27-29 "Matthew 27:29 - The Crown of Thorns")), symbolizing the curse and suffering He bore on our behalf. Through His sacrifice, Jesus took upon Himself the barrenness and desolation caused by sin, enabling a new creation where spiritual fruitfulness replaces spiritual death. The flourishing "fir tree" and "myrtle tree" represent the abundant life and beauty of the new covenant, where believers are transformed from within, receiving a new heart and spirit ([Ezekiel 36:26](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26 - A New Heart and Spirit")). This transformation is the work of the Holy Spirit, making us fruitful in righteousness ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Ultimately, this glorious restoration is "to the LORD for a name," revealing God's character and power most fully in the person and work of Christ, who is the "image of the invisible God" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). The "everlasting sign that shall not be cut off" points to the eternal covenant established in His blood ([Hebrews 13:20](/hebrews/13-20 "Hebrews 13:20 - The Eternal Covenant")), guaranteeing that the salvation and new creation initiated by Christ will endure forever, culminating in the new heavens and new earth where God's glory is fully manifest and the curse is no more ([Revelation 22:3](/revelation/22-3 "Revelation 22:3 - No More Curse")).

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

Ephesians 3:20

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Ephesians 3:21

Unto him [be] glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

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:

1 Peter 2:9

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

1 Peter 2:10

Which in time past [were] not a people, but [are] now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

Jeremiah 33:9

And it shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it.

Isaiah 61:3

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.