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Isaiah 26

Isa 26, Is 26


Isaiah 26

1 In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks.

2 Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.

3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:

5 For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.

6 The foot shall tread it down, even the feet of the poor, and the steps of the needy.

7 The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.

8 Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee.

9 With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.

10 Let favour be shewed to the wicked, yet will he not learn righteousness: in the land of uprightness will he deal unjustly, and will not behold the majesty of the LORD.

11 LORD, when thy hand is lifted up, they will not see: but they shall see, and be ashamed for their envy at the people; yea, the fire of thine enemies shall devour them.



12 LORD, thou wilt ordain peace for us: for thou also hast wrought all our works in us.

13 O LORD our God, other lords beside thee have had dominion over us: but by thee only will we make mention of thy name.

14 They are dead, they shall not live; they are deceased, they shall not rise: therefore hast thou visited and destroyed them, and made all their memory to perish.

15 Thou hast increased the nation, O LORD, thou hast increased the nation: thou art glorified: thou hadst removed it far unto all the ends of the earth.

16 LORD, in trouble have they visited thee, they poured out a prayer when thy chastening was upon them.

17 Like as a woman with child, that draweth near the time of her delivery, is in pain, and crieth out in her pangs; so have we been in thy sight, O LORD.

18 We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth wind; we have not wrought any deliverance in the earth; neither have the inhabitants of the world fallen.

19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.

20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.

21 For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.

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Summary and the Meaning of Isaiah Chapter 26 in the King James Version (KJV) Bible

Isaiah 26 is a chapter that profoundly explores themes of faith, trust, salvation, and judgment. It presents a vision of a future time when God's people will live in a fortified city, a place of peace and protection, where the gates open to all who are righteous and steadfast in faith. The chapter further elaborates on the contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, the living and the dead, and the transient nature of earthly kingdoms compared to the eternal nature of God's kingdom. This essay aims to delve into these themes and the overall meaning of this chapter.

The City of Salvation

Isaiah 26 opens with a song of praise for the fortified city, representing a place of peace and security. The city is described as having strong gates that are open to the righteous, those who keep faith (Isaiah 26:2). This imagery signifies the spiritual security and peace that comes from trusting in God. It serves as an assurance to the righteous that their faith and steadfastness are not in vain, as they will be granted access to this place of divine peace and protection.

The Theme of Trust and Faith

A recurring theme in Isaiah 26 is the emphasis on trust in God. In verse 3, the prophet Isaiah conveys a promise from God to those who trust in Him, stating that they will be kept in perfect peace because they are steadfast, and their trust in the Lord is unwavering (Isaiah 26:3). The chapter accentuates the importance of absolute reliance on God, suggesting that such trust leads to a sense of peace that transcends understanding. It underscores that faith in God provides a firm foundation, a refuge, and a source of stability in a changing and often chaotic world.

The Contrast between the Righteous and the Wicked

Isaiah 26 starkly contrasts the fate of the righteous and the wicked. The righteous, who walk in the path of God's laws and seek Him with all their heart, are promised peace and salvation (Isaiah 26:2-3, 7-9). On the other hand, the wicked are described as being in a state of unrest, unable to find the peace that is promised to the righteous. The chapter illustrates the divine judgment upon the wicked, where even though they are shown favor, they fail to learn righteousness and continue in their wicked ways (Isaiah 26:10). The chapter thus presents a moral lesson on the rewards of righteousness and the consequences of wickedness.

The Transience of Earthly Kingdoms

Isaiah 26 also contemplates the transient nature of earthly kingdoms. It portrays that human power and earthly kingdoms are temporary and will eventually be brought down (Isaiah 26:5-6). This perspective serves to remind the readers of the impermanence of worldly power and glory, and contrasts it with the eternal nature of God’s kingdom. It is a call to shift focus from temporal, earthly matters to the eternal, spiritual realm where God reigns supreme.

The Theme of Resurrection and Life

One of the most profound themes in Isaiah 26 is the concept of resurrection and life. In verses 19-21, the chapter presents the hope of resurrection for the righteous dead, stating that their bodies will rise and those who dwell in the dust will awake and shout for joy (Isaiah 26:19). This is a clear reflection of the belief in life after death and a resurrection for those who trust in God. It serves as a consolation and a source of hope for those mourning the loss of their loved ones, assuring them that death is not the end.

God's Ultimate Judgment

The chapter concludes with a description of God's ultimate judgment. It foretells a time when God will come out of His dwelling to punish the people of the earth for their sins (Isaiah 26:21). This prophecy is a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the inevitability of divine judgment. It urges readers to live righteously, be mindful of their actions, and seek God's mercy and forgiveness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Isaiah 26 presents a rich tapestry of themes and messages. It encourages trust and faith in God, promotes righteousness, warns against wickedness, underscores the transient nature of earthly kingdoms, offers hope through the promise of resurrection, and reminds of God's ultimate judgment. The chapter serves as a guide on how to navigate through life's challenges and uncertainties, offering wisdom, comfort, and hope. It beckons readers to live a life of righteousness, to trust in God's promises, and to look forward to the eternal life that awaits the faithful. Regardless of the trials and tribulations faced in this world, the chapter reassures that those who trust in God will find peace, protection, and ultimately, salvation.



This article is informed by the King James Version of the Holy Bible, the authors' personal knowledge, considerations and experience, and additional materials and resources available in internet.

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