Isaiah 60:6
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Isaiah 60:6
6 The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 60 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, worship, 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 60:6
6 The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.
Analysis
The prophecy becomes specific: "The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah." These Arabian tribes would bring trade goods on camel caravans—a vivid picture of wealth flowing to Zion. "All they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense." Sheba (southwestern Arabia, modern Yemen) was famous for wealth and spices. Gold and incense are royal and priestly gifts—what the magi brought to Christ (Matthew 2:11), connecting this prophecy to Messiah's worship. "And they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD." The climax isn't material wealth but worship—Gentiles proclaiming Yahweh's greatness. The Hebrew yebasser (show forth/proclaim) means announcing good news. From a Reformed perspective, this prophesies the missionary expansion of the church. The elect from all nations, including former enemies, will bring their best offerings and join in worshiping the true God. The material gifts symbolize the dedication of whole lives and cultures to Christ's glory. This fulfills the Abrahamic promise that all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3, 22:18, Galatians 3:8).
Historical Context
Midian, Ephah, and Sheba were descendants of Abraham through Keturah and others (Genesis 25:1-4), but they became distinct peoples often hostile to Israel. Queen of Sheba's visit to Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-13) prefigured this prophecy. The magi from the East bringing gifts to infant Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12) provided symbolic fulfillment. Complete fulfillment comes as the gospel reaches Arabia and all nations, transforming former enemies into worshipers.
Reflection
- How does the transformation of former enemies (like Midian) into worshipers demonstrate the gospel's power?
- What does the bringing of gold and incense by Gentiles teach about appropriate worship of Christ?
- How should material prosperity be connected to proclaiming God's praises rather than self-indulgence?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 72:15, 1 Peter 2:9
- References Lord: Isaiah 61:6
- Worship: Matthew 2:11
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 30:6, Genesis 10:7, Judges 6:5, Psalms 72:10, Philippians 2:17, 1 Peter 2:5