Isaiah 66:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 66:14
14 And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the LORD shall be known toward his servants, and his indignation toward his enemies.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 66 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, fellowship. 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 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 66:14
14 And when ye see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the LORD shall be known toward his servants, and his indignation toward his enemies.
Analysis
The promise continues: "And when ye see it, your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb." The response to God's comfort is profound—heart rejoicing and bones flourishing. "Bones" (atsam) represent the whole person, especially physical vitality. The simile "like herb" (ka'deshe) suggests green, vigorous growth—comprehensive restoration. Then comes distinction: "and the hand of the LORD shall be known toward his servants, and his indignation toward his enemies." God's "hand" represents His powerful activity—blessing for servants, judgment for enemies. The Hebrew noada (be known) means revealed, made evident—both blessing and judgment become unmistakable. From a Reformed perspective, this illustrates the double outcome of divine activity. God's work brings joy and flourishing to the elect while bringing judgment to the reprobate. The same sun melts wax and hardens clay; the same gospel saves some and condemns others (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). God's servants recognize His favor; His enemies experience His wrath (Romans 2:5-9).
Historical Context
The prophecy promised that seeing God's restoration would produce joy and vitality among the faithful while confirming judgment on the rebellious. Partial fulfillment came when the faithful returned from exile while the wicked faced judgment. Greater fulfillment came through Christ—His advent brought joy to those who believed (Luke 2:10-14, John 15:11) while pronouncing judgment on those who rejected Him (John 3:18, 36). This pattern continues throughout the church age—the gospel producing life and death, salvation and condemnation. Final fulfillment comes at Christ's return when the division becomes eternal (Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10).
Reflection
- How does genuine spiritual health manifest in both 'heart' and 'bones'—inner and outer life?
- What does it mean that God's 'hand' is known differently by servants versus enemies?
- How should the reality of God's indignation toward His enemies shape our evangelistic urgency?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 58:11, Zechariah 10:7
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 10:5, 26:19, Ezra 7:9, 8:22, 8:31, Proverbs 3:8