Romans 11:26

KJV

And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} so {G3779} all {G3956} Israel {G2474} shall be saved {G4982}: as {G2531} it is written {G1125}, There shall come {G2240} out of {G1537} Sion {G4622} the Deliverer {G4506}, and {G2532} shall turn away {G654} ungodliness {G763} from {G575} Jacob {G2384}:

Complete Jewish Bible

and that it is in this way that all Isra’el will be saved. As the Tanakh says,

“Out of Tziyon will come the Redeemer;
he will turn away ungodliness from Ya‘akov

Berean Standard Bible

And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: “The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will remove godlessness from Jacob.

American Standard Version

and so all Israel shall be saved: even as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer; He shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 11:26 stands as a profound declaration within Paul's intricate theological argument concerning God's enduring covenant faithfulness to Israel and the Gentiles. Following a discussion of Israel's partial and temporary hardening, this verse reveals a divine mystery: a future, corporate salvation for the Jewish nation, rooted in God's unwavering promises and culminating in the Deliverer's transformative work of turning away ungodliness from Jacob.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 11:26 concludes a pivotal section of Paul's letter (Romans 9-11) where he grapples with the perplexing question of Israel's present rejection of Jesus as Messiah. Chapters 9 and 10 establish Israel's historical privilege and their current unbelief, while chapter 11 shifts to God's future plan. Paul explains that Israel's "partial hardening" [Romans 11:25](/romans/11-25 "Romans 11:25 - The Mystery of Israel's Partial Hardening") was a strategic, temporary measure by God to allow for the full inclusion of Gentiles into the covenant family, provoking Israel to jealousy. This verse, therefore, serves as the triumphant climax of this argument, revealing that Israel's hardening is not permanent but serves a redemptive purpose, ultimately leading to their corporate restoration and salvation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul is writing to a diverse church in Rome, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers. There was likely tension and misunderstanding between these groups regarding God's dealings with Israel. Gentiles, having recently been grafted into God's olive tree, might have felt superior or believed God had permanently abandoned Israel. Conversely, Jewish believers might have struggled with the implications of their nation's widespread rejection of Christ. Paul's discourse directly addresses these concerns, providing a theological framework that upholds God's justice and faithfulness while also warning against Gentile arrogance [Romans 11:18](/romans/11-18 "Romans 11:18 - Do Not Boast Against the Branches"). The concept of "Israel" here refers primarily to ethnic, national Israel, the descendants of Jacob, distinct from the spiritual "Israel of God" (the church) which includes believing Gentiles.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major theological themes central to Romans 9-11 and the broader biblical narrative. The most prominent is **God's Unwavering Faithfulness**, demonstrating that despite Israel's historical unfaithfulness, God remains true to His irrevocable covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob [Romans 11:29](/romans/11-29 "Romans 11:29 - God's Irrevocable Gifts and Calling"). Another key theme is the **Future Salvation of All Israel**, which speaks to a corporate, eschatological turning of the Jewish nation to Christ, involving a spiritual transformation and a turning away from ungodliness. This future event is tied to the **Deliverer from Zion**, a clear reference to Jesus Christ, whose first coming initiated salvation and whose second coming will bring about this final restoration. The verse also highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty**, as God orchestrates history to bring about His purposes for both Jew and Gentile, ultimately demonstrating His wisdom and glory [Romans 11:33-36](/romans/11-33-36 "Romans 11:33-36 - Doxology to God's Wisdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **all Israel (Greek, _pâs Israḗl'_):** From G3956 (*pâs*), meaning "all, any, every, the whole," and G2474 (*Israḗl*), referring to "Israel (i.e. Jisrael), the adopted name of Jacob, including his descendants (literally or figuratively)." In this context, "all Israel" is widely understood to refer to the nation of Israel as a corporate entity, or a significant, elect remnant within it, rather than every single individual Jew throughout history. The emphasis is on the national, ethnic people of Israel experiencing a future, collective salvation.
* **the Deliverer (Greek, _ho rhýomai'_):** From G4506 (*rhýomai*), meaning "to rush or draw (for oneself), i.e. rescue." This term emphasizes the active role of one who rescues, delivers, or saves from peril. It points directly to Jesus Christ as the ultimate rescuer and redeemer, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of a Messiah who would bring salvation.
* **ungodliness (Greek, _asébeia'_):** From G763 (*asébeia*), meaning "impiety, i.e. (by implication) wickedness." This word denotes a lack of reverence or respect for God, manifesting as active wickedness or disobedience. The turning away of ungodliness signifies a profound spiritual transformation, a repentance from sin and a turning towards God in faith, which is a hallmark of true salvation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And so all Israel shall be saved:"** This clause declares the ultimate outcome of God's redemptive plan for the nation of Israel. The "so" (G3779, *hoútō*) connects this future salvation to the preceding discussion of Gentile inclusion and Israel's temporary hardening, implying that this salvation will occur in God's appointed way and time, perhaps after the "fullness of the Gentiles has come in" [Romans 11:25](/romans/11-25 "Romans 11:25 - The Fullness of the Gentiles"). The passive voice "shall be saved" (G4982, *sṓzō*) emphasizes that this salvation is a divine act, brought about by God's grace and power.
* **"as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer,"** Paul grounds his prophetic declaration in the Old Testament Scriptures, specifically quoting and alluding to passages like [Isaiah 59:20-21](/isaiah/59-20-21 "Isaiah 59:20-21 - The Redeemer Comes to Zion") and [Isaiah 2:3](/isaiah/2-3 "Isaiah 2:3 - The Law Goes Out from Zion"). "Sion" (G4622, *Siṓn*), or Zion, refers to Jerusalem, a spiritual and geographical symbol of God's presence and the source from which salvation and revelation originate. The "Deliverer" (G4506, *rhýomai*) is unequivocally Jesus Christ, who came from Jerusalem and is the one appointed by God to bring salvation.
* **"and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:"** This final clause describes the nature of the salvation and transformation that will occur within Israel. The Deliverer will not only rescue but also cleanse. "Jacob" (G2384, *Iakṓb*) is used here as a poetic synonym for the nation of Israel, emphasizing its ancestral roots and identity. The "turning away ungodliness" (G654, *apostréphō* G763, *asébeia*) signifies a profound spiritual repentance and moral transformation, where the nation collectively turns from its sin and unbelief to embrace the Messiah, fulfilling the promises of the New Covenant where God writes His law on their hearts [Jeremiah 31:33-34](/jeremiah/31-33-34 "Jeremiah 31:33-34 - The New Covenant Promise").

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this verse to convey his profound theological truth. The most prominent is **Quotation/Allusion**, as he directly cites and synthesizes Old Testament prophecies (primarily from Isaiah) to lend authoritative weight to his declaration of Israel's future salvation. This demonstrates his commitment to biblical revelation and his understanding that God's plan is consistent throughout history. The concept of "all Israel" being saved, following the "fullness of the Gentiles," introduces an element of **Mystery**, a divine truth previously hidden but now revealed through Paul, highlighting God's intricate and surprising redemptive strategy. Furthermore, the verse uses **Symbolism**, with "Sion" representing the spiritual epicenter from which God's salvation emanates, and "Jacob" serving as a metonym for the entire nation of Israel, connecting their future destiny to their ancestral identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 11:26 is a cornerstone for understanding God's comprehensive redemptive plan, affirming His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people, Israel, even amidst their temporary unbelief. It assures us that God's promises are not contingent on human performance alone but are ultimately secured by His sovereign character. This verse underscores the eschatological hope for Israel's national restoration and spiritual renewal, which will have profound implications for the entire world, signaling a climactic moment in salvation history. It highlights that God's ultimate purpose is to bring salvation to both Jew and Gentile, uniting them in Christ.

* [Jeremiah 31:31-34](/jeremiah/31-31-34 "Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The New Covenant with Israel and Judah")
* [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Zechariah 12:10 - Israel Mourns for the Pierced One")
* [Matthew 23:39](/matthew/23-39 "Matthew 23:39 - Jesus' Lament Over Jerusalem and Future Welcome")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 11:26 offers profound encouragement and a call to humility for believers today. It reminds us that God's promises are utterly trustworthy and His plan for humanity, including His original chosen people, will ultimately prevail. This truth should instill a deep sense of hope and confidence in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem to contradict His Word. For Gentile believers, this passage serves as a vital warning against spiritual arrogance or triumphalism towards Israel, reminding us that we are grafted into a rich heritage that has Jewish roots. Our salvation is not a replacement of Israel, but an inclusion into God's ongoing redemptive story. It compels us to pray for Israel's salvation and to anticipate the glorious day when they, too, will recognize Jesus as their Messiah. Ultimately, this verse deepens our appreciation for the wisdom and mystery of God's ways, fostering a humble and worshipful heart.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of God's unwavering faithfulness to Israel, as seen in this verse, strengthen your own trust in God's promises to you personally?**
* **In what ways might Gentile believers today inadvertently exhibit arrogance towards Israel, and how can we cultivate a more humble and prayerful posture?**
* **What practical steps can you take to better understand and appreciate God's ongoing plan for ethnic Israel?**

### FAQ
**What does "all Israel" mean in Romans 11:26?**

Answer: The phrase "all Israel" has been the subject of extensive theological debate. Based on the immediate literary context of Romans 9-11, which discusses ethnic Israel's historical relationship with God, their present hardening, and their future restoration, the most compelling interpretation is that "all Israel" refers to the nation of Israel as a corporate entity, or a significant, elect remnant within the Jewish people, who will, at a future, eschatological point, collectively turn to Jesus as their Messiah and be saved. It does not mean every single individual Jew throughout history, nor does it refer to the church (spiritual Israel) as a whole, though the church is indeed composed of both believing Jews and Gentiles. Paul's argument here is specifically about the future of his own people, the descendants of Jacob.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 11:26 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, the promised Deliverer. He is the one who came "out of Sion" in His first advent, born in Bethlehem and ministering from Jerusalem, initiating the new covenant through His atoning sacrifice on the cross. His death and resurrection provide the means by which "ungodliness" can be turned away, offering forgiveness and spiritual transformation to all who believe, whether Jew or Gentile [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). The future salvation of "all Israel" prophesied here points to Christ's glorious second coming, when He will return as King and Redeemer [Hebrews 9:28](/hebrews/9-28 "Hebrews 9:28 - Christ's Second Coming for Salvation") and the nation of Israel will finally look upon Him whom they have pierced and mourn for Him, receiving Him as their Messiah [Zechariah 12:10](/zechariah/12-10 "Zechariah 12:10 - Israel Mourns for the Pierced One"). Thus, Jesus is not only the historical Deliverer but also the eschatological hope, whose return will usher in the full realization of God's redemptive plan for His chosen people, culminating in their spiritual restoration and the ultimate display of God's glory throughout the earth [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship in Heaven and Christ's Return").

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 59:20

And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 31:31

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:

Jeremiah 31:37

Thus saith the LORD; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the LORD.

Psalms 14:7

Oh that the salvation of Israel [were come] out of Zion! when the LORD bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, [and] Israel shall be glad.

Zechariah 10:6

And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I [am] the LORD their God, and will hear them.

Zechariah 10:12

And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the LORD.

Hosea 3:5

Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.