Isaiah 26:21
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.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Isaiah's Apocalypse (Chapters 24-27): This section, dated to the 8th century BC during Isaiah's ministry, contains prophecies of universal judgment and ultimate restoration. Unlike Isaiah's oracles against specific nations, these chapters envision worldwide judgment, suggesting an eschatological or end-times focus.
Ancient Near Eastern Context: In the ancient world, unpunished bloodshed was believed to pollute the land (Genesis 4:10, Numbers 35:33). The concept of earth "disclosing her blood" reflects the belief that innocent blood cried out for justice. Isaiah's prophecy assures that no injustice escapes God's notice, and all hidden crimes will ultimately be brought to light and judged.
Questions for Reflection
- What is the significance of God "coming out of his place" rather than judging from heaven?
- How does the earth "disclosing her blood" relate to biblical concepts of justice and the land being defiled by innocent bloodshed?
- What does this passage teach about God's knowledge of hidden sins and ultimate accountability?
- How should the certainty of coming judgment affect how believers live and pursue justice now?
- In what ways does this prophecy find fulfillment historically, and what aspects remain future/eschatological?
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Analysis & Commentary
Divine Theophany for Judgment: The phrase "the LORD cometh out of his place" (Hebrew הִנֵּה יְהוָה יֹצֵא מִמְּקוֹמוֹ, hinneh Yahweh yotse mimqomo) depicts God leaving His heavenly dwelling to execute judgment on earth. Similar language appears in Micah 1:3, emphasizing the fearsome nature of divine intervention. Purpose of Coming: The infinitive לִפְקֹד (lifqod, "to punish") can mean "to visit" or "to attend to," here with negative connotation—divine visitation for judgment.
The phrase עֲוֺן יֹשֵׁב־הָאָרֶץ (avon yoshev-ha'arets, "iniquity of the inhabitants of the earth") indicates comprehensive judgment—not just Israel but all earth-dwellers. Earth's Witness: "The earth also shall disclose her blood" (Hebrew וְגִלְּתָה הָאָרֶץ אֶת־דָּמֶיהָ) personifies earth as revealing hidden murders, crimes covered but not forgotten. The verb גָּלָה (galah, "disclose/reveal") suggests uncovering what was concealed. Eschatological Vision: This prophecy points to final judgment when all hidden sin will be exposed and justice fully executed.