Isaiah 19:21
And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform it.
Isaiah 19:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah signifies a powerful moment of spiritual awakening and recognition of the one true God, Yahweh, by the Egyptians. In this prophetic statement, it is foretold that a day will come when the people of Egypt will come to know the Lord and acknowledge His sovereignty. The act of sacrifice and oblation mentioned in the verse represents a turning away from their previous idols and false gods, and a commitment to worship and honor the one true God. The vow made to the Lord signifies a solemn promise and dedication to follow His commandments and live according to His will. This verse speaks to the universality of God's reach and the transformative power of His presence, showing that even those who were previously unaware or hostile to Him can come to know and worship Him. It serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the possibility of redemption for all people, regardless of their past beliefs or actions.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, there is a theological interpretation that speaks to the inclusivity of God's salvation. The mention of Egypt, a nation historically at odds with the Israelites, shows that God's grace extends to all peoples. The idea that the Egyptians will come to know and worship the Lord emphasizes the universal nature of God's love and compassion. The mention of sacrifices and vows also highlights the genuine transformation that will take place within the hearts of the people of Egypt. This verse serves as a reminder that God's desire for reconciliation and redemption is not limited to one particular group but is available to all who are willing to turn towards Him in faith and obedience.
Isaiah 19:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know Jehovah in that day; yea, they shall worship with sacrifice and oblation, and shall vow a vow unto Jehovah, and shall perform it.
World English Bible
Yahweh will be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians will know Yahweh in that day. Yes, they will worship with sacrifice and offering, and will vow a vow to Yahweh, and will perform it.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord shall be known by Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the Lord in that day, and shall worship him with sacrifices and offerings: and they shall make vows to the Lord, and perform them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord shall be knowen of the Egyptians, and the Egyptians shall knowe the Lord in that day, and doe sacrifice and oblation, and shall vowe vowes vnto the Lord, and performe them.