Isaiah 58:14

KJV

Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

Then shalt thou delight {H6026} thyself in the LORD {H3068}; and I will cause thee to ride {H7392} upon the high places {H1116} of the earth {H776}, and feed {H398} thee with the heritage {H5159} of Jacob {H3290} thy father {H1}: for the mouth {H6310} of the LORD {H3068} hath spoken {H1696} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

If you do, you will find delight in ADONAI - I will make you ride on the heights of the land and feed you with the heritage of your ancestor Ya'akov, for the mouth of ADONAI has spoken."

Berean Standard Bible

then you will delight yourself in the LORD, and I will make you ride on the heights of the land and feed you with the heritage of your father Jacob.” For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

American Standard Version

then shalt thou delight thyself in Jehovah; and I will make thee to ride upon the high places of the earth; and I will feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of Jehovah hath spoken it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 58:14 culminates a powerful prophetic message, promising profound divine blessings to those who genuinely delight in the LORD and honor His ways, particularly through sincere Sabbath observance and acts of justice and compassion. It assures believers of exaltation, security, and abundant provision, underscoring the unwavering faithfulness of God's spoken word to fulfill His covenant promises to His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic promise in Isaiah 58, a chapter that sharply contrasts Israel's outward, ritualistic piety with the true worship God desires. The preceding verses (Isaiah 58:1-12) expose the hypocrisy of their fasting, which was self-serving rather than God-honoring. God calls His people to a fast of justice, compassion, and humility—loosing the bonds of wickedness, sharing bread with the hungry, and clothing the naked. The immediate precursor, [Isaiah 58:13](/isaiah/58-13 "Isaiah 58:13 - Conditions for Sabbath Blessing"), sets the condition for the blessings of verse 14: honoring the Sabbath by refraining from one's own pleasure, calling it a delight, and honoring the LORD. Thus, verse 14 is the divine response to a people who turn from mere ritual to genuine obedience and heartfelt devotion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Isaiah prophesied during a tumultuous period for Judah (8th century BC), facing threats from Assyria and internal spiritual decay. The people often engaged in religious practices, such as fasting and Sabbath keeping, but their hearts were far from God, and their society was marked by injustice and oppression. The concept of "high places" (בָּמָה, _bâmâh_) in ancient Israelite culture often referred to elevated sites used for worship, sometimes illicitly. However, in this context, "high places of the earth" metaphorically signifies positions of prominence, security, and victory, far removed from the vulnerability of the lowlands. The "heritage of Jacob" refers to the covenant promises made to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—which included the land, numerous descendants, and divine blessing, as detailed in passages like [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Abrahamic Covenant") and [Genesis 28:13-15](/genesis/28-13 "Genesis 28:13-15 - God's Promise to Jacob").
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of Isaiah 58 is the **nature of true worship** versus superficial religiosity. This verse specifically highlights **divine blessing as a consequence of obedience and delight in God**. It underscores the theme of **restoration and prosperity** for a repentant people, echoing promises found elsewhere in Isaiah, such as the vision of Jerusalem's future glory in [Isaiah 60](/isaiah/60 "Isaiah 60 - The Future Glory of Zion"). The concept of **delight in the LORD** is central, suggesting that true satisfaction is found not in worldly pursuits but in a deep, intimate relationship with God, a theme also powerfully expressed in [Psalm 37:4](/psalm/37-4 "Psalm 37:4 - Delight in the Lord"). Furthermore, the verse emphasizes **God's faithfulness to His covenant promises**, assuring that what "the mouth of the LORD hath spoken" will indeed come to pass, reinforcing the reliability of God's word found throughout the prophetic books, for example, in [Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God is not a man, that he should lie").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **delight (Hebrew, _ʻânag'_):** This primitive root signifies being soft or pliable, and figuratively, to be luxurious or to find exquisite pleasure. When applied to the LORD, it conveys a profound sense of finding ultimate satisfaction, joy, and luxuriating in God Himself, rather than in self-gratification or worldly pursuits. It implies a deep, affectionate enjoyment of God's presence and ways.
* **high places (Hebrew, _bâmâh'_):** Derived from an unused root meaning "to be high," this word refers to an elevation or height. In this context, it is used metaphorically to denote a position of security, prominence, dominion, and triumph. To "ride upon the high places of the earth" signifies being elevated above adversaries and difficulties, enjoying a position of safety, honor, and authority granted by God.
* **heritage (Hebrew, _nachălâh'_):** From a root meaning "to inherit," this term refers to something inherited, an heirloom, an estate, patrimony, or a portion. Here, "the heritage of Jacob thy father" specifically points to the fulfillment of the covenant promises made to the patriarch Jacob (Israel), encompassing the land, prosperity, and the blessings associated with being God's chosen people. It signifies God's faithful provision and the secure possession of promised blessings.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD;":** This clause presents the immediate and profound reward for genuine obedience and heartfelt worship. The "delight" is not merely an emotional state but a deep spiritual orientation where one finds ultimate joy, satisfaction, and pleasure in God Himself, flowing from a life of honoring Him, particularly through Sabbath observance and acts of justice.
* **"and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth,":** This is a powerful metaphorical promise of divine exaltation and security. God promises to elevate His obedient people to a position of prominence, victory, and safety. It implies dominion over challenges, protection from enemies, and a life lived in a place of honor and strength, far above the common struggles.
* **"and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:":** This clause assures abundant provision and the fulfillment of ancient covenant promises. "Feeding" signifies sustenance and prosperity, while "the heritage of Jacob" refers to the land, blessings, and security promised to Israel through their patriarch. It speaks to God's faithfulness in providing for His people's needs and granting them their rightful inheritance.
* **"for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].":** This concluding declaration serves as an emphatic divine guarantee. It underscores the absolute certainty, reliability, and unwavering faithfulness of God's word. What God has declared, He will unquestionably bring to pass, reinforcing the trustworthiness of His covenant promises and the immutability of His divine plan.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 58:14 masterfully employs several **literary devices** to convey its powerful message. **Metaphor** is prominent, particularly in "cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth," which vividly portrays divine elevation, security, and triumph rather than literal horseback riding on mountains. This image is a **symbol** of dominion and safety. The phrase "feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father" uses **synecdoche**, where "feed" represents comprehensive provision and "heritage of Jacob" stands for the entire scope of the covenant blessings promised to Israel. The entire verse functions as a **promise**, a divine assurance of future blessing contingent upon a specific condition (delighting in the LORD and honoring His ways). Finally, the concluding phrase, "for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it," acts as an **affirmation** or **divine oath**, emphasizing the absolute certainty and reliability of God's word, serving as a powerful rhetorical flourish to seal the promise.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 58:14 profoundly connects the spiritual discipline of delighting in the LORD with tangible blessings of exaltation, security, and provision. It reveals that God's desire is not for empty ritual but for a heart genuinely devoted to Him and His righteous ways, which then unlocks the fullness of His covenant promises. This verse underscores the principle that true prosperity, both spiritual and material, flows from a deep, obedient relationship with God, where He becomes the ultimate source of joy and satisfaction. It highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His word, reassuring His people that His promises are certain to be fulfilled.

* [Psalm 37:4](/psalm/37-4 "Psalm 37:4 - Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart")
* [Deuteronomy 32:13](/deuteronomy/32-13 "Deuteronomy 32:13 - God's Provision and Exaltation of Israel")
* [Numbers 23:19](/numbers/23-19 "Numbers 23:19 - God is not a man, that He should lie")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 58:14 calls us to a radical reorientation of our desires and priorities. It challenges us to ask where our true delight lies. Is it in worldly pursuits, self-gratification, or the fleeting pleasures of this life? Or is it profoundly and genuinely found in the LORD Himself—in His character, His presence, His commands, and His purposes? When we cultivate a heart that delights in God, prioritizing His ways (including principles of rest, worship, justice, and compassion) over our own agendas, we position ourselves to receive His abundant and multifaceted blessings. This verse assures us that such a life is not one of deprivation but of true elevation, security, and a rich inheritance. It encourages us to trust implicitly in God's spoken word, knowing that His promises are unfailingly true and that He will indeed cause us to ride upon the high places of the earth and feed us with a heritage far richer than anything we could achieve on our own.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it truly mean for me to "delight myself in the LORD" in my daily life?**
* **In what areas of my life do I seek satisfaction outside of God, and how can I reorient those desires towards Him?**
* **How does my observance of spiritual disciplines (like Sabbath or acts of justice) reflect a genuine delight in God, rather than mere obligation?**
* **What "high places" or positions of security and honor might God be calling me to, and what steps of obedience are required to reach them?**
* **How does the certainty of "the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it" strengthen my faith and encourage me to trust in His promises for my future?**

### FAQ

**What does "ride upon the high places of the earth" mean in a practical sense for believers today?**

Answer: In a practical sense, "to ride upon the high places of the earth" signifies being elevated by God to a position of spiritual and often practical prominence, security, and victory. It means experiencing God's divine protection, provision, and favor that sets one above the common struggles and adversities of life. For believers today, this can manifest as spiritual authority, resilience in trials, divine wisdom in decision-making, and a life marked by God's blessing and influence, enabling them to impact their spheres of influence for His glory. It's about living a life of triumph and stability, not necessarily material wealth, but a deep sense of God's sovereign care and exaltation, as seen in how God often lifts up those who humble themselves before Him ([James 4:10](/james/4-10 "James 4:10 - Humble yourselves before the Lord")).

**How does "the heritage of Jacob thy father" apply to New Testament believers, given that we are not physical descendants of Jacob?**

Answer: While New Testament believers are not necessarily physical descendants of Jacob, the concept of "the heritage of Jacob thy father" applies through spiritual inheritance. The New Testament teaches that believers in Christ, whether Jew or Gentile, are spiritual descendants of Abraham and heirs according to the promise ([Galatians 3:29](/galatians/3-29 "Galatians 3:29 - Heirs According to the Promise")). The blessings promised to Jacob (Israel) were ultimately rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, which pointed forward to Christ. Therefore, the "heritage" for believers today encompasses the spiritual blessings of salvation, the indwelling Holy Spirit, eternal life, access to God, and the promise of a future inheritance in God's kingdom. It signifies God's faithful provision for all who are united to Christ by faith, fulfilling the spiritual intent of the Old Testament promises.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 58:14 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "delight thyself in the LORD" is perfectly embodied by Christ, who always did the will of His Father and found His ultimate joy in obedience and communion with God ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to do the Will of God")). He is the true Israel, the faithful Son who perfectly honored God's commands, including the spirit of the Sabbath, by bringing healing and liberation ([Mark 2:27-28](/mark/2-27 "Mark 2:27-28 - Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath")). Through His sacrificial life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has caused His followers to "ride upon the high places of the earth." He has elevated us from the depths of sin and death to sit with Him in heavenly places ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Seated with Christ in Heavenly Places")), granting us spiritual dominion and security in Him, far above all principalities and powers ([Ephesians 1:20-21](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-21 - Christ's Exaltation and Authority")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the ultimate "heritage of Jacob," for in Him, all the promises made to Abraham and Jacob find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - All God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). Through faith in Him, we are fed with the spiritual inheritance of eternal life, the Holy Spirit, and adoption into God's family ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")). The certainty that "the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it" is supremely confirmed in Christ, the Living Word, through whom God's redemptive plan has been perfectly accomplished and guaranteed for all who believe ([John 1:1-14](/john/1-1 "John 1:1-14 - The Word Became Flesh")).

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

Deuteronomy 32:13

He made him ride on the high places of the earth, that he might eat the increase of the fields; and he made him to suck honey out of the rock, and oil out of the flinty rock;

Job 22:26

For then shalt thou have thy delight in the Almighty, and shalt lift up thy face unto God.

Isaiah 33:16

He shall dwell on high: his place of defence [shall be] the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters [shall be] sure.

Isaiah 1:19

If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:

Isaiah 1:20

But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].

Habakkuk 3:18

Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

Habakkuk 3:19

The LORD God [is] my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' [feet], and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.