Isaiah 60:21

KJV

Thy people also [shall be] all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thy people {H5971} also shall be all righteous {H6662}: they shall inherit {H3423} the land {H776} for ever {H5769}, the branch {H5342} of my planting {H4302}, the work {H4639} of my hands {H3027}, that I may be glorified {H6286}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All your people will be tzaddikim; they will inherit the land forever; they will be the branch I planted, my handiwork, in which I take pride.

Berean Standard Bible

Then all your people will be righteous; they will possess the land forever; they are the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, so that I may be glorified.

American Standard Version

Thy people also shall be all righteous; they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 60:21 presents a profound prophetic vision of the redeemed community of God, highlighting their transformed character, eternal inheritance, and divine origin. It declares that God's people will be entirely righteous, possessing the promised land forever, not by their own might but as the direct result of God's deliberate work, His "planting" and "hands." The ultimate purpose of this glorious restoration and transformation is the magnification of God's own glory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 60:21 is situated within the "Book of Consolation" (Isaiah 40-66), specifically within a section (chapters 60-62) that vividly portrays the future glory of Zion (Jerusalem) and the restoration of God's people. Chapter 60 opens with a call for Jerusalem to "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you" [Isaiah 60:1](/isaiah/60-1 "Isaiah 60:1 - Arise, Shine!") after a period of darkness and exile. The preceding verses in chapter 60 describe nations streaming to Jerusalem, bringing their wealth and honor, and the city's gates remaining open. The Lord Himself becomes Jerusalem's everlasting light, and days of mourning are ended [Isaiah 60:19-20](/isaiah/60-19 "Isaiah 60:19-20 - The Lord is Your Everlasting Light"). Verse 21 naturally follows this crescendo of divine blessing, specifying the character of this restored people and the divine agency behind their flourishing, culminating in God's glorification.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies in Isaiah 40-66 are generally understood to address the Jewish exiles in Babylon and their descendants, offering hope for return and restoration after the Babylonian captivity. The concept of "inheriting the land" was deeply rooted in Israel's covenant history, tracing back to the Abrahamic promise [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - The Promise of Land to Abram") and the Mosaic covenant. The return from exile was a partial fulfillment, but the prophetic vision often extends beyond a mere physical return to a spiritual and eschatological restoration. The idea of God's people being "all righteous" speaks to a profound transformation, contrasting with the sin that led to their exile, and hinting at a new covenant where God's law would be written on their hearts [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant"). The imagery of "planting" and "work of my hands" draws on agricultural and artisanal metaphors common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, emphasizing divine ownership and meticulous craftsmanship.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. The theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Restoration** is paramount, as God is depicted as the sole agent bringing about this glorious future, transforming His people and granting them an eternal inheritance. This connects to the overarching message of hope after judgment found throughout [Isaiah](/isaiah "The Book of Isaiah - Prophecies of Judgment and Salvation"). The theme of **Righteousness** is central, emphasizing not just ethical conduct but a renewed covenant relationship and internal purity, a hallmark of the eschatological age. The concept of an **Eternal Inheritance** expands upon the ancient land promises, suggesting a permanent, secure dwelling that transcends earthly limitations, often pointing towards the new heavens and new earth [2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - The New Heavens and New Earth"). Finally, the ultimate theme is **God's Glory**, as the entire process of redemption, transformation, and inheritance serves to magnify His character, power, and faithfulness to all creation, echoing the declaration in [Romans 11:36](/romans/11-36 "Romans 11:36 - All for God's Glory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **righteous (Hebrew, _tsaddîyq'_):** (H6662) This term signifies not merely ethical uprightness but a state of being in right relationship or conformity to a divine standard. Here, "all righteous" implies a comprehensive and pervasive transformation of the community, a divine work that brings them into perfect alignment with God's character and covenant demands, moving beyond individual acts to a corporate state of purity.
* **inherit (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** (H3423) This primitive root means to occupy, to possess, often by driving out previous tenants. In the context of Israel, it refers to the possession of the promised land. Here, coupled with "for ever," it denotes a secure, permanent, and undisputed possession of the land, signifying an eternal covenant blessing and an unshakeable dwelling.
* **planting (Hebrew, _maṭṭâʻ'_):** (H4302) Derived from a root meaning "to plant," this word refers to something planted, a plantation, or the act of planting. It vividly portrays God's people as His specially cultivated garden or vineyard, emphasizing His deliberate, careful, and intentional work in establishing and nurturing them. This imagery underscores divine ownership and the organic growth fostered by God's hand.
* **work (Hebrew, _maʻăseh'_):** (H4639) This term denotes an action, a deed, or a product of labor. When applied to God, it highlights His creative and redemptive activity. Here, "the work of my hands" powerfully asserts that the transformed state of His people is entirely His doing, a direct result of His sovereign power and craftsmanship, not human effort.
* **hands (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** (H3027) This common word for "hand" often carries figurative meanings related to power, agency, means, or possession. In the phrase "the work of my hands," it emphasizes God's direct, personal involvement and His omnipotent power in bringing about the restoration and righteousness of His people. It underscores the divine authorship and meticulous care in their formation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thy people also [shall be] all righteous":** This clause declares a radical transformation of God's community. It's not just a few individuals, but "all" of His people will possess a state of righteousness. This righteousness is divinely bestowed and transformative, moving beyond external adherence to internal purity and right relationship with God. It speaks to a perfected covenant community.
* **"they shall inherit the land for ever":** This promises an eternal and secure possession of the land. This "land" is not merely the geographical territory of Israel but represents the full scope of God's covenant blessings, a permanent dwelling in His presence. The phrase "for ever" elevates the promise beyond any temporary historical return, pointing to an eschatological reality of enduring peace and security.
* **"the branch of my planting, the work of my hands":** These two parallel phrases emphasize the divine origin and agency behind the people's transformation and inheritance. "The branch of my planting" likens God's people to a specially cultivated shoot or plant, highlighting His deliberate and nurturing care. "The work of my hands" further underscores that their existence, character, and destiny are entirely the product of God's sovereign creative and redemptive power, not human effort or merit.
* **"that I may be glorified":** This final clause reveals the ultimate purpose of God's actions. The transformation of His people, their righteousness, and their eternal inheritance are all designed to bring ultimate honor, praise, and recognition to God Himself. Their redeemed state serves as a testament to His power, faithfulness, and goodness, revealing His character to all creation.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 60:21 is rich with literary devices that amplify its prophetic message. **Symbolism** is evident in "the land," which represents not just a physical territory but the fullness of God's covenant blessings and a secure, eternal dwelling in His presence. The phrase "the branch of my planting" employs **Metaphor**, likening God's people to a cultivated plant or shoot, emphasizing their organic growth and divine nurturing. This also carries a subtle **Allusion** to other prophetic texts where "branch" (Hebrew _netser_ or _tsemach_) is a messianic title, though here it refers to the people as a collective. The phrase "the work of my hands" is a powerful **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like creative action to God, vividly conveying His direct and personal involvement in shaping His people. The declaration that "Thy people also shall be all righteous" uses **Hyperbole** to emphasize the completeness and perfection of the future transformation, signifying a radical and comprehensive change. The entire verse functions as a **Prophetic Vision**, painting a picture of an ideal future that transcends immediate historical realities, offering hope and revealing God's ultimate redemptive plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 60:21 profoundly articulates God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people, revealing His sovereign power to transform and establish them eternally for His own glory. The promise of "all righteous" points to a future where sin's dominion is utterly broken, and a perfect relationship with God is fully realized, a theme central to the new covenant. This divine work ensures an inheritance that is not temporary or contingent on human performance but is eternally secured by God's own hand. The ultimate purpose of all creation and redemption is consistently shown to be the glorification of God, affirming His supreme worth and majesty.

* [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant and Inner Law")
* [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - God's Workmanship for Good Works")
* [Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God Dwells with His People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 60:21 offers profound comfort and a clear call to purpose for believers today. It assures us that our righteousness is fundamentally a divine work, not merely a human striving. This truth liberates us from the burden of self-justification and invites us into a deeper reliance on God's transformative grace. As "the branch of His planting" and "the work of His hands," we are reminded of our identity as His cherished creation, carefully cultivated for a divine purpose. This understanding fosters humility, gratitude, and a profound sense of belonging. Furthermore, the verse redirects our ultimate ambition: our lives, our growth, our inheritance—all are ultimately for God's glory. This perspective shapes our priorities, encouraging us to live in a way that reflects His goodness, power, and faithfulness to a watching world, knowing that our eternal dwelling and transformed character are secured by His unfailing promise.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of God making His people "all righteous" impact your understanding of personal holiness and spiritual growth?**
* **In what ways does knowing you are "the branch of His planting" and "the work of His hands" shape your identity and sense of purpose?**
* **How can living with the ultimate goal "that I may be glorified" change your daily decisions and long-term aspirations?**
* **What does "inheriting the land for ever" mean for your perspective on earthly possessions and future hopes?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for God's people to be "all righteous"?**

Answer: For God's people to be "all righteous" (Hebrew: _tsaddîyq_) signifies a complete and pervasive transformation of their character and relationship with God. It's not just about outward obedience or individual acts of goodness, but an internal, corporate state of being in perfect alignment with God's holy nature and covenant demands. This righteousness is divinely initiated and sustained, a hallmark of the new covenant where God writes His laws on hearts and forgives sins [Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant"). It points to an eschatological reality where God's people are fully conformed to His will and reflect His glory without blemish.

**How is the promise of "inheriting the land for ever" understood in a Christian context?**

Answer: While the original promise of "inheriting the land" referred to the physical territory of Israel, in a Christian context, "inheriting the land for ever" is understood in a broader, spiritual, and eschatological sense. It points to the ultimate, eternal dwelling place of God's redeemed people, which transcends earthly boundaries. This inheritance encompasses the new heavens and new earth, where righteousness dwells [2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - The New Heavens and New Earth") and where God Himself will dwell among His people [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity"). It signifies a permanent, secure, and blessed existence in God's presence, fulfilling the deepest longings for peace, security, and belonging that the earthly land once symbolized. The meek, for instance, are promised to [inherit the earth](/matthew/5-5 "Matthew 5:5 - The Beatitudes: Inheriting the Earth").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 60:21 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His work. The declaration that "Thy people also shall be all righteous" is realized through Christ, who became our righteousness [1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Righteousness"). Through faith in Him, believers are declared righteous before God, and the Holy Spirit progressively sanctifies them, working to conform them to Christ's image [2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into Christ's Image"). He is the true "branch" (or "shoot" from Jesse's roots) prophesied in Isaiah [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse"), and through Him, we become branches grafted into the true vine [John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Jesus the True Vine"). The "planting" and "work of my hands" refer to God's redemptive masterpiece in Christ, creating a new humanity, "His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works" [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - God's Workmanship"). The inheritance of "the land for ever" is secured by Christ's resurrection and ascension, granting believers a heavenly inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading [1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - A Living Hope, an Incorruptible Inheritance"). Ultimately, Christ's entire mission—His life, death, resurrection, and the redemption of His people—is "that I may be glorified," for He perfectly revealed the Father's glory [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). Thus, the vision of a righteous, eternally secure people, divinely authored and purposed for God's glory, is fully realized in and through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

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

Matthew 15:13

But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.

Psalms 37:22

For [such as be] blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and [they that be] cursed of him shall be cut off.

Psalms 37:11

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

Isaiah 29:23

But when he seeth his children, the work of mine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel.

John 15:2

Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every [branch] that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

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.

Psalms 92:13

Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.