Isaiah 55:5

KJV

Behold, thou shalt call a nation [that] thou knowest not, and nations [that] knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold, thou shalt call {H7121} a nation {H1471} that thou knowest {H3045} not, and nations {H1471} that knew {H3045} not thee shall run {H7323} unto thee because of the LORD {H3068} thy God {H430}, and for the Holy One {H6918} of Israel {H3478}; for he hath glorified {H6286} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

You will summon a nation you do not know, and a nation that doesn't know you will run to you, for the sake of ADONAI your God, the Holy One of Isra'el, who will glorify you."

Berean Standard Bible

Surely you will summon a nation you do not know, and nations who do not know you will run to you. For the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, has bestowed glory on you.”

American Standard Version

Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not; and a nation that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of Jehovah thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 55:5 presents a magnificent prophetic vision of God's global redemptive purpose, extending His gracious invitation of salvation beyond the confines of Israel to encompass all peoples. This verse powerfully illustrates the magnetic, irresistible draw of God's inherent glory and faithfulness, which, through His chosen instrument—ultimately the Messiah—will compel distant nations to eagerly seek Him, culminating in a worldwide acknowledgment of the sovereign Lord and the Holy One of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 55 is a pivotal chapter, often called the "Great Invitation," serving as a climactic summary of the themes developed in the latter half of the book, particularly the Servant Songs (Isaiah 40-55). Following the profound revelation of the suffering and triumphant Servant of the Lord in chapters like [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"), this chapter issues a universal call to salvation, emphasizing God's abundant grace and the freeness of His covenant blessings. Verse 5 specifically anticipates the glorious outcome of the Servant's work, where the "thou" (whether Israel, the Servant, or both) becomes the focal point for an unprecedented global ingathering. It transitions from the immediate post-exilic restoration to a far-reaching spiritual reality, where God's people are not merely restored to their land but become a beacon to the nations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Isaiah 55:5 is set against the backdrop of the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national humiliation and theological questioning for Israel. While the immediate context speaks to the promised return from exile, the language of "nations" running to Israel transcends a mere physical restoration. Culturally, ancient Near Eastern empires often sought to impose their gods on conquered peoples. In stark contrast, Isaiah prophesies a divine work where nations willingly and eagerly come to the God of Israel. The concept of a "Holy One of Israel" was deeply ingrained in Israelite theology, emphasizing God's unique purity, transcendence, and covenant faithfulness, especially vital for a people struggling with their identity and sin in exile. This verse offers a radical hope, promising a future where Israel's God, previously known only to them, would be acknowledged globally, subverting typical imperial dynamics.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes within Isaiah. Firstly, it highlights **God's Universal Sovereignty and Redemptive Plan**, demonstrating that His salvific purposes extend far beyond Israel to embrace all humanity. This echoes earlier prophecies of [nations flowing to the Lord's house](/isaiah/2-2 "Isaiah 2:2 - Nations Flowing to the Lord's House") and the Servant being a [light to the Gentiles](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - The Servant as a Light to the Nations"). Secondly, the theme of **Divine Glory as a Drawing Force** is central; it is "because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee" that nations are drawn. This underscores that the attraction is not human charisma or power, but God's inherent character and the glory He bestows upon His chosen instrument. Thirdly, the verse subtly points to the **Messianic Role of the Servant**, who is the ultimate "thou" that will "call a nation that thou knowest not." This prefigures the Messiah's global mission to gather those previously outside the covenant, a mission that culminates in Christ drawing all people to Himself, as He declared in [John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Draws All People").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Nation (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term, often translated as "Gentile" or "heathen," refers to foreign peoples or non-Israelite nations. Its use here signifies a radical expansion of God's covenant blessings beyond the ethnic boundaries of Israel, emphasizing the inclusion of those previously considered outsiders into God's redemptive plan.
* **Knowest (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** This word implies a deep, intimate, experiential knowledge, not merely intellectual acquaintance. The phrase "thou knowest not" highlights the foreignness and unfamiliarity of these nations to Israel, while "knew not thee" underscores their prior ignorance of Israel's God and His covenant. The divine initiative is thus emphasized, as God orchestrates the coming of those who had no prior relationship or understanding.
* **Glorified (Hebrew, _pâʼar'_):** This verb means "to gleam," "embellish," or "to boast." In the Hiphil stem (causative), as used here, it means "He has caused to be glorified" or "He has made glorious." It signifies God's active work in exalting and honoring His chosen instrument (Israel/Messiah), making them radiant and attractive, thereby drawing the nations. This glorification is the divine magnet, demonstrating God's supreme power and majesty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, thou shalt call a nation [that] thou knowest not":** This opening phrase serves as an exclamation, drawing attention to a remarkable future event. The "thou" here can be understood in a dual sense: initially referring to Israel, called to be a light to the nations, but ultimately pointing to the Messiah, who will extend the divine invitation to peoples previously unknown to the covenant community. It speaks of a proactive divine initiative to gather those outside.
* **"and nations [that] knew not thee shall run unto thee":** This clause describes the eager and spontaneous response of these foreign nations. They are not coerced but willingly and swiftly come. The phrase "knew not thee" reinforces their prior ignorance of God, making their running a clear demonstration of divine power and attraction, not human persuasion. This highlights the transformative impact of encountering God's glory.
* **"because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee":** This final clause provides the profound theological reason for this global convergence. The nations are drawn not by Israel's might or wisdom, but solely "because of" Yahweh (H3068), the covenant God (H430) of Israel (H3478), and "for" the Holy One (H6918) of Israel, a distinctive title emphasizing God's absolute transcendence and moral purity. The ultimate cause is God's own act of glorifying (H6286) "thee" (Israel/Messiah), making His chosen instrument a radiant display of His character and redemptive power, an irresistible magnet for all peoples.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 55:5 is rich in literary devices that amplify its prophetic message. The use of **apostrophe** ("thou shalt call") directly addresses Israel, or the Servant, creating a personal and direct prophetic utterance that emphasizes God's specific commission. **Parallelism** is evident in the symmetrical structure of "a nation that thou knowest not" and "nations that knew not thee," emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the divine call and the nations' response, and highlighting the prior lack of relationship from both sides. The verb "run" is a vivid **metaphor** for eagerness, swiftness, and enthusiastic response, suggesting an uncoerced and fervent coming of the nations, moved by divine power. The phrase "Holy One of Israel" functions as a powerful **epithet** for God, emphasizing His unique character and covenant relationship, while the entire verse serves as a profound **prophecy**, foretelling a future global ingathering centered on God's glory.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 55:5 stands as a profound testament to God's expansive, global redemptive plan, revealing His heart for all humanity. It underscores that salvation is not limited to one ethnic group but is a universal invitation, rooted in God's own character and His sovereign initiative. The verse highlights the magnetic power of divine glory, demonstrating that it is God's inherent holiness and His act of glorifying His chosen instrument—ultimately the Messiah—that draws people from every corner of the earth. This vision of a worldwide ingathering anticipates the New Covenant reality where distinctions between Jew and Gentile are abolished in Christ, and all who believe become part of God's spiritual Israel.

* [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "The Servant as a Light to the Gentiles")
* [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20 "Zechariah 8:20-23 - Many Peoples Seek the Lord")
* [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - Multitude from Every Nation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 55:5 serves as a powerful reminder of God's boundless love and His unwavering commitment to drawing all peoples to Himself. For believers today, this verse instills profound hope and ignites a passion for global missions. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate communities and embrace God's expansive vision for humanity, recognizing that the gospel is for "nations that knew not thee." Our confidence in evangelism and discipleship is not rooted in our own persuasive abilities or programs, but in the irresistible glory of the Lord our God, who has glorified His Son, Jesus Christ. This verse calls us to participate actively in His mission, sharing the good news with conviction and compassion, trusting that it is His glory, revealed through His people, that will ultimately draw the lost. It encourages us to pray for and engage with unreached people groups, knowing that God's ultimate plan is for a multitude from every tribe, tongue, and nation to worship Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Isaiah 55:5 challenge my understanding of God's global redemptive plan?**
* **In what ways can I, or my community, better embody the "glorified" presence of God to draw those who "know not Him"?**
* **What specific actions can I take to participate more fully in God's mission to reach "nations that knew not thee"?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "thou" in Isaiah 55:5?**

Answer: The "thou" in Isaiah 55:5 is generally understood to refer primarily to Israel, specifically in its role as God's chosen people, through whom His light and truth are to be revealed to the world. However, within the broader context of Isaiah's Servant Songs (e.g., [Isaiah 42:6](/isaiah/42-6 "Isaiah 42:6 - Covenant for the People, Light for the Gentiles") or [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - The Servant as a Light to the Nations")), it is also seen as ultimately pointing to the Messiah, the ideal Servant of the Lord, who perfectly embodies Israel's mission and fulfills it. He is the one through whom God's glory is most fully manifested, drawing all nations to Himself.

**What does "nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee" imply about conversion?**

Answer: This phrase implies a willing, eager, and spontaneous response to God's call, rather than a forced or reluctant one. The nations, previously ignorant of the God of Israel, are depicted as actively "running" towards Him, indicating a profound and enthusiastic conversion. It highlights the magnetic power of God's glory and the divine initiative in drawing people to Himself. This "running" signifies a joyful embrace of the covenant and a desire to worship the one true God, contrasting sharply with the typical conquest narratives of the ancient world.

**Why is God referred to as "the Holy One of Israel" in this verse?**

Answer: The title "Holy One of Israel" is a distinctive and frequent designation for God in the book of Isaiah, appearing over 25 times. It emphasizes God's absolute moral purity, His transcendence, and His unique covenant relationship with Israel. By using this title here, the prophet underscores that it is God's inherent holiness, His unblemished character, and His faithfulness to His covenant promises that serve as the ultimate reason for the nations' attraction. It reinforces that the global ingathering is not due to human merit or strategy, but solely to the divine nature of the sovereign, holy God of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 55:5 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While initially addressed to Israel, the "thou" who will "call a nation that thou knowest not" is perfectly embodied by the Messiah. Jesus, as the true [Servant of the Lord](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"), perfectly fulfills Israel's prophetic mission to be a light to the Gentiles. His life, death, and resurrection are the supreme manifestation of God's glory, making Him the irresistible magnet for all humanity. As He declared, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will [draw all men unto me](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Draws All People")" (John 12:32). The nations who "knew not thee" now run to Christ, recognizing Him as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Through Him, the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile is broken down ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), and people from every tribe, tongue, and nation are gathered into one body, the Church ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - Multitude from Every Nation")). It is "because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel," revealed in Christ, that this global salvation occurs, for "He hath glorified thee" in the person and work of His Son, making Him the glorious centerpiece of God's redemptive plan for all humanity.

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 60:9

¶ Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, their silver and their gold with them, unto the name of the LORD thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel, because he hath glorified thee.

Isaiah 60:5

Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thine heart shall fear, and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto thee.

Zechariah 2:11

And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.

Romans 15:20

Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:

Isaiah 45:23

I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth [in] righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

Isaiah 55:4

Behold, I have given him [for] a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.

Isaiah 11:10

¶ And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.