Isaiah 60:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 60:16
16 Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 60 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, holiness, discipleship. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 60:16
16 Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
Analysis
The nursing imagery appears again: "Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings." This reverses typical imperial relationships where subjected peoples provide tribute to conquering nations. Now Gentiles and kings provide nourishment and sustenance to Zion. The nursing metaphor suggests intimate care, life-giving support, and tender provision. The purpose clause is critical: "and thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob." Three titles emphasize God's saving work: moshia (Saviour), goal (Redeemer), and the mighty One of Jacob. The result of experiencing salvation is knowing God truly. From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates that salvation brings experiential knowledge of God, not merely intellectual assent. We know God as Saviour by experiencing salvation, as Redeemer by experiencing redemption, as mighty by experiencing His power. The reference to "Jacob" connects present salvation to ancient covenant promises—the same God who chose Jacob continues His faithful work.
Historical Context
During the monarchy and exile, Judah often paid tribute to foreign powers—Assyria, Egypt, Babylon, Persia. The prophecy reversed this: nations would support Zion. Partially fulfilled through Persian support for temple rebuilding (Ezra 6:8-9) and Gentile contributions to early church (Romans 15:26-27, 2 Corinthians 8-9). Ultimately fulfilled as Gentile believers bring their resources to support gospel work and sustain God's people. The knowledge of God as Saviour, Redeemer, and Mighty One comes through experiencing His salvation in Christ.
Reflection
- How do Gentile believers provide sustenance and support for the church's mission?
- What does it mean to 'know' God as Saviour, Redeemer, and Mighty One through experience?
- How does God's covenant faithfulness to Jacob relate to His saving work in our lives?
Word Studies
- Redeem: גָּאַל (Gaal) H1350 - To redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Isaiah 49:23
- References Lord: Isaiah 61:6, 66:14, Ezekiel 34:30
- Redemption: Isaiah 59:20