Isaiah 41:27
The first shall say to Zion, Behold, behold them: and I will give to Jerusalem one that bringeth good tidings.
Original Language Analysis
רִאשׁ֥וֹן
The first
H7223
רִאשׁ֥וֹן
The first
Strong's:
H7223
Word #:
1 of 7
first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)
לְצִיּ֖וֹן
shall say to Zion
H6726
לְצִיּ֖וֹן
shall say to Zion
Strong's:
H6726
Word #:
2 of 7
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
וְלִירוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
to Jerusalem
H3389
וְלִירוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
to Jerusalem
Strong's:
H3389
Word #:
5 of 7
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
Cross References
Isaiah 40:9O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!Isaiah 52:7How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!Isaiah 44:28That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.Isaiah 48:3I have declared the former things from the beginning; and they went forth out of my mouth, and I shewed them; I did them suddenly, and they came to pass.Nahum 1:15Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace! O Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked shall no more pass through thee; he is utterly cut off.
Historical Context
This anticipates the messenger announcing Babylon's fall and Israel's release, ultimately pointing to the gospel messengers (same Hebrew root) who announce salvation in Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's pattern of announcing beforehand and then fulfilling strengthen trust in future promises?
- What 'good tidings' do you need to hear afresh from God today?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
God declares, 'The first shall say to Zion, Behold, behold them' and gives Jerusalem 'one that bringeth good tidings' ('mevaser'—gospel messenger). The Hebrew suggests God was first to announce these things, and now brings the prophetic word to fruition. The good news is God's action on behalf of His people.