Isaiah 65:22

KJV

They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree [are] the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.

KJV (with Strong's)

They shall not build {H1129}, and another {H312} inhabit {H3427}; they shall not plant {H5193}, and another {H312} eat {H398}: for as the days {H3117} of a tree {H6086} are the days {H3117} of my people {H5971}, and mine elect {H972} shall long enjoy {H1086} the work {H4639} of their hands {H3027}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will not build and others live there, they will not plant and others eat; for the days of my people will be like the days of a tree, and my chosen will themselves enjoy the use of what they make.

Berean Standard Bible

No longer will they build houses for others to inhabit, nor plant for others to eat. For as is the lifetime of a tree, so will be the days of My people, and My chosen ones will fully enjoy the work of their hands.

American Standard Version

They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree shall be the days of my people, and my chosen shall long enjoy the work of their hands.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 65:22 presents a profound prophetic vision of restoration and security for God's chosen people, depicting a future where the injustices of exploitation are completely reversed. This verse promises an era of enduring peace and prosperity, where the community will build and inhabit their own homes, plant and enjoy the fruits of their own labor, and experience a longevity akin to ancient trees. It underscores divine faithfulness in establishing a just and blessed existence for the elect, ensuring that their diligent work yields lasting satisfaction and security, free from oppression.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 65:22 is embedded within a magnificent prophetic passage (Isaiah 65:17-25) that describes the "new heavens and a new earth" which God promises to create. This section follows a sharp contrast between the rebellious and unfaithful people (Isaiah 65:1-16) and God's promise of a glorious future for His faithful remnant. The preceding verses (Isaiah 65:18-19) speak of God's joy in His people and the absence of weeping and crying, setting the stage for the specific blessings detailed in verse 22. The subsequent verses (Isaiah 65:23-25) further elaborate on this idyllic future, portraying a world free from toil, infant mortality, and even predatory animal behavior, culminating in a vision of universal peace and harmony. This verse, therefore, serves as a concrete example of the practical blessings that will characterize this new creation, specifically addressing the security and fruitfulness of human labor.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, a common curse or consequence of military defeat and conquest was that the vanquished people would build cities or cultivate land only for their conquerors to inhabit or consume the produce. This exploitation is explicitly mentioned in various biblical curses (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28:30](/deuteronomy/28-30 "Deuteronomy 28:30 - Curses of Disobedience")). The act of building and planting only for others to enjoy was a profound symbol of subjugation, loss of dignity, and divine judgment. Conversely, the ability to build, inhabit, plant, and eat the fruit of one's own labor was a hallmark of peace, prosperity, and divine blessing, signifying national sovereignty and individual security. The reference to the "days of a tree" also resonates with ancient cultural understanding, where venerable trees were symbols of longevity, stability, and deep-rooted flourishing, often living for centuries. Thus, the prophecy in Isaiah 65:22 directly addresses and reverses these ancient curses, promising a future of unprecedented security and self-determination under God's benevolent rule.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Justice and Reversal**, demonstrating God's commitment to righting wrongs and bringing an end to oppression. The reversal of the curse of exploitation signifies a restoration of order and equity. Secondly, the theme of **Enduring Blessing and Longevity** is central, particularly with the simile "as the days of a tree are the days of my people," which points to an extraordinary, stable, and long-lasting quality of life for God's chosen ones. This contrasts sharply with the fleeting nature of human life under the curse. Thirdly, the verse emphasizes the **Dignity and Fulfillment of Labor**, promising that God's people will "long enjoy the work of their hands." This speaks to a profound satisfaction derived from meaningful work, a blessing often denied in a fallen world where toil can be frustrating and unrewarded, as seen in [Ecclesiastes 2:26](/ecclesiastes/2-26 "Ecclesiastes 2:26 - God's Gift of Enjoyment"). Finally, the mention of "mine elect" underscores the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness and Election**, affirming that these blessings are specifically for those whom God has chosen and redeemed, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant people in the eschatological age.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** From H1129, a primitive root meaning "to build (literally and figuratively)." This word encompasses the act of construction, establishing, and even metaphorically "obtaining children" or setting up. In Isaiah 65:22, it signifies the foundational act of creating a home or community infrastructure, emphasizing the security that comes from knowing one's efforts in building will not be usurped.
* **days (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, meaning "a day (as the warm hours), whether literal... or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term)." While often referring to a literal 24-hour period, in this context, "days" takes on a figurative and expansive meaning, indicating a prolonged period, an age, or even a lifetime. When compared to the "days of a tree," it denotes an exceptionally long and stable duration of life and prosperity.
* **long enjoy (Hebrew, _bâlâh'_):** From H1086, a primitive root meaning "to fail; by implication to wear out, decay (causatively, consume, spend)." Paradoxically, in the Hiphil stem (causative), it can mean "to cause to wear out" or "to use up," but here it is used idiomatically to mean "to enjoy long" or "to wear out by using," implying a full and complete enjoyment over an extended period. This signifies not merely possession, but the sustained, satisfying benefit from one's labor until it is fully utilized or consumed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"They shall not build, and another inhabit;"**: This clause directly addresses and reverses a common curse of ancient warfare and oppression. Historically, conquered peoples would be forced to construct buildings or cities only for their conquerors to occupy them. The prophecy assures God's people that their efforts in building will be for their own benefit and security, symbolizing an end to foreign domination and economic exploitation.
* **"they shall not plant, and another eat:"**: Parallel to the first clause, this further emphasizes the reversal of exploitation in agriculture. In a land-based economy, the inability to enjoy the fruits of one's planting was a severe hardship and a sign of subjugation. This promise ensures that the community's agricultural labor will yield sustenance and prosperity for themselves, signifying self-sufficiency and divine blessing upon their diligent work.
* **"for as the days of a tree [are] the days of my people,"**: This is a powerful simile that promises extraordinary longevity and stability. Trees, especially ancient ones, are known for their long lifespans, deep roots, and resilience. The comparison suggests that God's people will experience a life characterized by enduring strength, flourishing, and a prolonged existence, far beyond the typical human lifespan or the transient nature of previous generations' struggles. It implies a stability rooted in God's covenant faithfulness.
* **"and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands."**: This final clause summarizes the blessed state, emphasizing the satisfaction and security of labor. The "elect" (God's chosen ones) are specifically identified as the recipients of this blessing. "Long enjoy" implies not just a momentary benefit, but a sustained, fulfilling experience of the results of their efforts, free from interruption, theft, or premature loss. This speaks to a profound sense of peace, justice, and personal fulfillment.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 65:22 employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its message of hope and restoration. The most prominent is **Parallelism**, specifically synonymous parallelism, seen in the opening two clauses: "They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat." This repetition of structure with similar meaning reinforces the central promise of an end to exploitation and the establishment of secure enjoyment of labor. Another key device is **Simile**, vividly used in "for as the days of a tree [are] the days of my people." This comparison draws upon the widely understood symbolism of trees as emblems of longevity, stability, and flourishing, effectively communicating an extraordinary measure of life and enduring prosperity for God's elect. Furthermore, the passage utilizes **Contrast** to highlight the radical shift from the previous state of injustice and unrewarded toil to a future characterized by peace, security, and the full enjoyment of one's efforts, amplifying the magnitude of God's promised blessings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 65:22 stands as a testament to God's ultimate plan for justice, restoration, and the complete reversal of the curse. It paints a picture of eschatological shalom, where the fundamental human desire to see the fruit of one's labor is fully realized, free from the ravages of war, oppression, or economic injustice. This vision is rooted in God's unwavering covenant faithfulness to His chosen people, promising not just a return to a pre-fall state, but an elevated existence characterized by divine blessing, longevity, and profound satisfaction. It speaks to a future where human dignity, tied to meaningful and fruitful work, is fully restored, reflecting God's original design for humanity to tend and keep the earth and enjoy its produce. The longevity promised, "as the days of a tree," transcends mere physical lifespan, pointing to an enduring, stable, and flourishing quality of life in God's presence.

* [Deuteronomy 28:30](/deuteronomy/28-30 "Deuteronomy 28:30 - Curses of Building and Planting for Others")
* [Psalm 128:2](/psalm/128-2 "Psalm 128:2 - Blessing of Enjoying Labor")
* [1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor in the Lord is Not in Vain")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 65:22 offers profound hope and a powerful vision for believers today, even as we navigate a world still marked by injustice and unfulfilled labor. It reminds us that God is ultimately a God of justice who will rectify all wrongs and ensure that the efforts of His faithful people are not in vain. While we may not yet experience the full, perfect realization of this prophecy in our current fallen world, it points to a future reality—whether in the millennial reign or the eternal state of the new heavens and new earth—where perfect peace, security, and the enjoyment of our labor will be fully realized. This verse encourages us to persevere in our callings and good works, knowing that our diligent efforts, especially those undertaken for the Lord, contribute to an eternal purpose and will ultimately be rewarded and enjoyed. It fosters a deep trust in God's sovereign plan for ultimate restoration, urging us to live with an eschatological hope that transforms our present perspective on work, suffering, and the promise of divine blessing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of enjoying the "work of their hands" challenge our contemporary views on labor, success, and satisfaction?**
* **In what ways can we, even now, experience glimpses of the "days of a tree" longevity and security in our spiritual lives, trusting in God's faithfulness?**
* **What injustices in our world today echo the "building for another" or "planting for another" scenario, and how does this prophecy inspire us to pray or act for justice?**

### FAQ
**What does "as the days of a tree" signify in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "as the days of a tree" (Hebrew, _k'y'mei ha'etz_) is a powerful simile signifying extraordinary longevity, stability, and flourishing. In ancient cultures, trees, particularly venerable ones like oaks or cedars, were known to live for centuries, deeply rooted and resilient. This comparison promises God's people not just a long life in terms of years, but a life characterized by enduring peace, secure establishment, and sustained prosperity, free from the transience and instability that often plagued human existence in a fallen world. It speaks to a quality of life that is deeply satisfying and unthreatened.

**Who are "mine elect" mentioned in this prophecy?**

Answer: "Mine elect" (Hebrew, _bâchîyr_) refers to God's chosen people. In the immediate context of Isaiah, this primarily refers to the faithful remnant of Israel, those who remained true to God amidst national apostasy and judgment. However, in broader biblical theology, particularly through the lens of the New Testament, the concept of God's elect expands to include all who are chosen by God for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, both Jew and Gentile. This prophecy, therefore, ultimately encompasses all those who are in a covenant relationship with God, recipients of His grace and promises, who will inherit the blessings of the new creation.

**Is this prophecy of Isaiah 65:22 literal or figurative?**

Answer: This prophecy, like many in Isaiah regarding the new heavens and new earth, contains elements that are both literal and figurative, pointing towards a glorious eschatological reality. While the specific images of building, planting, and eating are literal activities, their context within a perfectly just and secure environment, coupled with the extraordinary longevity "as the days of a tree," points to an idealized, divinely perfected state. It describes a future where the curses of the fall (e.g., toil, futility of labor) are reversed, and God's people experience complete shalom. The New Testament writers often interpret such Old Testament prophecies as finding their ultimate fulfillment in the spiritual realities of the New Covenant and the physical realities of the New Heavens and New Earth (e.g., [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heaven and New Earth")). So, it's a promise of a tangible, physical reality, but one perfected by God's supernatural intervention, transcending our current experience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 65:22 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the new creation inaugurated through His redemptive work. The promise that God's people "shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat" speaks to a reversal of the curse and the establishment of secure inheritance. This is profoundly realized in Christ, who, through His sacrifice, has secured for His elect an [unfading inheritance](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable") that no one can take away. We are now building on the foundation of Christ (as seen in [1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ as the Foundation")), and our spiritual labor in Him is never in vain ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor in the Lord is Not in Vain")), as we are assured of eternal reward. The "days of a tree" longevity foreshadows the eternal life and resurrection bodies granted to believers through Christ, where death is swallowed up in victory ([1 Corinthians 15:54](/1_corinthians/15-54 "1 Corinthians 15:54 - Death Swallowed Up in Victory")). Furthermore, the "elect" who "shall long enjoy the work of their hands" are those chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world ([Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Ephesians 1:4 - Chosen in Christ")). In the New Heavens and New Earth, which Christ's return will fully usher in, believers will dwell securely with God, experiencing perfect peace and enjoying the fruit of their faithful service in an eternal, unblemished existence, where all things are made new and all tears are wiped away ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Mourning")). Thus, Christ is the guarantor and embodiment of this secure, fruitful, and eternal future for God's people.

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

Psalms 91:16

With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Psalms 92:12

The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

Psalms 92:14

They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing;

Psalms 21:4

He asked life of thee, [and] thou gavest [it] him, [even] length of days for ever and ever.

Isaiah 65:15

And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:

Isaiah 65:9

And I will bring forth a seed out of Jacob, and out of Judah an inheritor of my mountains: and mine elect shall inherit it, and my servants shall dwell there.

Genesis 5:27

And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died.