Isaiah 61:6

KJV

But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: [men] shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.

KJV (with Strong's)

But ye shall be named {H7121} the Priests {H3548} of the LORD {H3068}: men shall call {H559} you the Ministers {H8334} of our God {H430}: ye shall eat {H398} the riches {H2428} of the Gentiles {H1471}, and in their glory {H3519} shall ye boast {H3235} yourselves.

Complete Jewish Bible

but you will be called cohanim of ADONAI, spoken of as ministers to our God. You will feed on the wealth of nations, and revel in their riches.

Berean Standard Bible

But you will be called the priests of the LORD; they will speak of you as ministers of our God; you will feed on the wealth of nations, and you will boast in their riches.

American Standard Version

But ye shall be named the priests of Jehovah; men shall call you the ministers of our God: ye shall eat the wealth of the nations, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 61:6 is a profound prophetic declaration that unveils the future identity, sacred role, and abundant provision awaiting God's restored people. Following the anointing and redemptive work of the Messiah, this verse promises that the redeemed community will be divinely consecrated and publicly recognized as "Priests of the LORD" and "Ministers of our God." This signifies a radical elevation in status and purpose, moving them from a state of shame to one of honor and direct service to the Most High. Furthermore, it foretells a dramatic reversal of fortunes, where they will not only be sustained but will inherit and joyfully utilize the wealth and honor of the nations, boasting in the glorious vindication and lavish provision bestowed upon them by the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into the fabric of Isaiah's "Book of Comfort" (chapters 40-66), a section brimming with messages of hope, restoration, and ultimate salvation for Israel after the Babylonian exile. Chapter 61 specifically opens with the Spirit-anointed Servant of the Lord (a figure Jesus explicitly identifies as Himself in His inaugural sermon, found in [Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Inaugural Sermon")) proclaiming good news to the poor, binding up the brokenhearted, and declaring liberty to captives. Verse 6 then describes the glorious outcome for the people who embrace this message and experience this divine restoration, contrasting their future honor with the shame and confusion they previously endured, a theme further elaborated in [Isaiah 61:7](/isaiah/61-7 "Isaiah 61:7 - Double Honor for Shame"). The chapter progresses to describe God's everlasting covenant and the universal recognition of His people among the nations, solidifying their transformed status.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in [Isaiah 61](/isaiah/61 "Isaiah 61 - The Spirit of the Lord") was delivered to a people who had either experienced or were anticipating significant suffering, exile, and national humiliation under foreign powers. In ancient Israel, the priesthood was an exceptionally esteemed, hereditary role, exclusively reserved for the descendants of Aaron from the tribe of Levi. Thus, to be "named the Priests of the LORD" was an extraordinary and revolutionary elevation of status, implying direct access to God and a central role in mediating His presence and truth to the world. The concept of "eating the riches of the Gentiles" would have been particularly striking and counter-cultural, as Israel had frequently been exploited, subjugated, or plundered by surrounding nations. This imagery speaks to a future where divine justice would prevail, and the resources of the world would willingly serve God's purposes through His people, rather than being used to oppress them.
* **Key Themes:** A central theme permeating [Isaiah 61](/isaiah/61 "Isaiah 61 - The Spirit of the Lord") and powerfully articulated in this verse is **Divine Identity and Calling**. The declaration of God's people as "Priests of the LORD" and "Ministers of our God" signifies a profound transformation from a humbled, scattered nation to a consecrated, unified community with a sacred, universal purpose. This echoes the original covenantal calling of Israel to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation" as first articulated in [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel, a Kingdom of Priests"). Another prominent theme is **Abundant Provision and Honor**. The promise to "eat the riches of the Gentiles" and "boast yourselves in their glory" speaks to God's lavish supply and the ultimate vindication of His people. This is not about plunder but about the willing contribution of nations to God's kingdom, as seen in other prophetic passages like [Isaiah 60:3-11](/isaiah/60-3 "Isaiah 60:3-11 - Nations Coming to Zion"), where the wealth and peoples of the world flow into Zion, bringing honor to God's dwelling place. This underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations and resources.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Priests (Hebrew, _kôhên'_):** From H3548, this term literally means "one officiating," a priest, or even a chief ruler. In the context of ancient Israel, it referred to those consecrated to mediate between God and humanity, offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and leading worship. Here, its application to the entire community signifies a collective, consecrated identity and a direct, privileged relationship with the Divine, extending a previously restricted role to the whole people.
* **Ministers (Hebrew, _shârath'_):** From H8334, this primitive root means "to attend as a menial or worshipper," or "to contribute to." It denotes active service, often in a sacred context, such as serving in the temple or attending royalty. This word emphasizes the active, dedicated, and honorable service role of God's people in His presence and for His purposes, highlighting their commitment to His will.
* **riches (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** From H2428, this word denotes "force, whether of men, means or other resources." It can mean an army, wealth, virtue, valor, or strength. In this verse, "riches" refers to the substantial material and perhaps even human resources of the "Gentiles," indicating comprehensive provision and a dramatic reversal of economic and social power dynamics in favor of God's people, implying a transfer of resources to God's kingdom.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD:"** This clause declares a new, divinely conferred identity and exalted status upon God's people. Those who were previously shamed or oppressed are now to be formally recognized and called "Priests of the LORD" (H3068, Yᵉhôvâh, the self-Existent or Eternal God). This signifies a sacred, consecrated role, implying direct access to God, a function of intercession, and a primary role in worship and declaring His truth. The use of "named" (H7121, qârâʼ) suggests a public and definitive declaration of this new identity.
* **"[men] shall call you the Ministers of our God:"** This reinforces the new identity with a complementary and equally significant title, "Ministers" (H8334, shârath) of "our God" (H430, ʼĕlôhîym, the supreme God). While "priests" emphasizes a consecrated status and mediation, "ministers" highlights the active, dedicated service and attendance to God's will and people. The parallelism underscores the certainty and public recognition of this elevated and functional role within God's kingdom.
* **"ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles,"** This part of the prophecy promises abundant provision and a dramatic reversal of fortunes. "Eating" (H398, ʼâkal) the "riches" (H2428, chayil) implies not just consumption but full enjoyment, utilization, and appropriation of the wealth, resources, and perhaps even the strength of the "Gentiles" (H1471, gôwy, foreign nations). This signifies that the nations, who once might have exploited or oppressed Israel, will now willingly contribute their resources to God's people, serving His kingdom purposes and demonstrating His sovereignty over all material wealth.
* **"and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves."** This final clause speaks to the profound vindication and honor bestowed upon God's people. "Their glory" (H3519, kâbôwd, splendor or copiousness) refers to the honor, prestige, and perhaps even the cultural achievements and splendor of the Gentiles. To "boast yourselves" (H3235, yâmar, to exchange, by implication, to change places; boast selves) in this context is not sinful pride but a rightful sense of honor, joy, and public acknowledgment of God's faithfulness and the abundant blessings He has poured out upon His people, demonstrating His power and goodness through them. It signifies a public celebration of God's redemptive work.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 61:6 masterfully employs several powerful literary devices to convey its transformative prophetic message. **Symbolism** is profoundly present, as the titles "Priests of the LORD" and "Ministers of our God" are symbolic of a new, consecrated identity and a direct, intimate relationship with the Divine, extending a previously restricted role to the entire community. Similarly, "the riches of the Gentiles" and "their glory" symbolize abundant divine provision and the ultimate vindication and honor of God's people, not merely material gain. **Parallelism** is evident in the structure of the first two clauses ("But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: [men] shall call you the Ministers of our God"), where synonymous phrases reinforce the idea of a new, recognized sacred identity and function. A strong sense of **Reversal of Fortune** is also a key device, as the verse dramatically shifts the position of God's people from potential subjugation, shame, or suffering to one of honor, abundance, and influence over the very nations that might have previously oppressed them. This prophetic declaration serves to inspire hope and affirm God's ultimate plan for restoration and exaltation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 61:6 articulates a profound theological truth: God's ultimate intention is to establish His people as a consecrated community, uniquely set apart for His service and abundantly provided for. This vision extends beyond a mere physical restoration, encompassing a spiritual transformation that grants them a priestly and ministerial identity. This identity implies a role of intercession, worship, and active service, not only to God but also as a light to the nations, drawing them to His truth. The promise of inheriting the "riches of the Gentiles" speaks to God's absolute sovereignty over all creation and His ability to orchestrate the flow of resources to fulfill His kingdom purposes, ensuring His people are equipped and empowered for their divine calling. This is a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His desire to see His people honored and glorified through His own power and provision.

* [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel as a Kingdom of Priests")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Race, a Royal Priesthood")
* [Revelation 5:10](/revelation/5-10 "Revelation 5:10 - Kings and Priests to God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 61:6 offers a profound and inspiring vision for believers today, reminding us of our true identity and calling in Christ. We are no longer defined by our past failures, societal status, or worldly limitations, but by our new position as "Priests of the LORD" and "Ministers of our God," consecrated and set apart for His divine purposes. This means we are called to a life of perpetual worship, fervent intercession, and active service, mediating God's presence and truth to a broken and yearning world. The promise of "eating the riches of the Gentiles" encourages us to trust implicitly in God's abundant and sovereign provision, recognizing that all resources ultimately belong to Him and can be leveraged for the advancement of His kingdom. It challenges us to view our talents, time, material possessions, and even our influence not as our own possessions, but as sacred instruments to be stewarded for God's glory. Our boasting, therefore, is not in ourselves or our accomplishments, but solely in the glorious work God accomplishes through us and for us, demonstrating His faithfulness, power, and grace in our lives and through His global church. This verse inspires us to live out our consecrated identity with profound confidence and joyful purpose, knowing that God will equip and sustain us for every good work He has prepared for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what tangible ways do I currently live out my identity as a "Priest of the LORD" and a "Minister of our God" in my daily life, relationships, and vocation?**
* **How can I better recognize and intentionally utilize the "riches" (resources, talents, influence, opportunities) God has entrusted to me for the advancement of His kingdom, rather than solely for personal gain or comfort?**
* **What does it truly mean for me to "boast myself" in God's glory, and how can I ensure this is a humble, grateful acknowledgment of His work, rather than a display of personal pride or self-aggrandizement?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for God's people to be "Priests of the LORD" and "Ministers of our God"?**

Answer: This signifies a profound elevation of status and purpose for the entire community of God's people. Historically, in ancient Israel, only a select, hereditary group (the Aaronic priesthood) held such sacred roles. This prophecy expands that sacred identity to the entire redeemed community. It means they are consecrated, set apart for direct service and worship of God, acting as mediators of His presence and truth to the world. It implies a collective role of intercession, teaching, and leading others in worship and service, reflecting the original covenantal calling of Israel in [Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel as a Kingdom of Priests") and finding its ultimate and broader fulfillment in the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")).

**Does "ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles" imply plundering or exploitation?**

Answer: No, the context and broader prophetic themes in Isaiah and throughout the Bible suggest a different meaning entirely. This phrase speaks to a dramatic reversal of fortunes and a divine orchestration of resources. It does not imply forceful taking, plunder, or exploitation. Instead, it signifies that the wealth, resources, and influence of the nations (Gentiles) will be willingly brought to and used for the benefit of God's people and His kingdom purposes. This is consistent with other prophecies, such as [Isaiah 60:5-11](/isaiah/60-5 "Isaiah 60:5-11 - The Wealth of the Nations Comes to Zion"), where nations bring their treasures to Zion, recognizing God's glory among His people. It signifies divine provision, honor, and the ultimate alignment of all things with God's redemptive and restorative plan for the world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 61:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and His church. Jesus, as the Spirit-anointed Servant prophesied in [Isaiah 61:1-2](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1-2 - The Spirit of the Lord on the Messiah"), inaugurates the era of salvation, liberation, and restoration. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, He not only redeems a people from sin but also consecrates them, establishing a new covenant where all believers are made "a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - The Priesthood of All Believers")). We, the church, are called "ministers of Christ" and are entrusted with the glorious "ministry of reconciliation" ([2 Corinthians 5:18](/2_corinthians/5-18 "2 Corinthians 5:18 - Ministry of Reconciliation")). The promise that God's people "shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves" is progressively fulfilled as the Gospel, through the global church, reaches all nations. The spiritual and even material resources of the world are increasingly being consecrated and utilized for the advancement of God's kingdom, as people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation come to faith in Christ and bring their unique contributions to His church ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - Multitude from Every Nation")). The church, as the very body of Christ, now stands in this honored and privileged position, not by its own merit or strength, but solely by the glorious grace and power of God, boasting only in the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross ([Galatians 6:14](/galatians/6-14 "Galatians 6:14 - Boasting in the Cross")).

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

Exodus 19:6

And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These [are] the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

1 Peter 2:5

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

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.

Isaiah 60:7

All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together unto thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister unto thee: they shall come up with acceptance on mine altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.

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:

Isaiah 66:21

And I will also take of them for priests [and] for Levites, saith the LORD.

2 Corinthians 11:23

Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I [am] more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.