Isaiah 27:12
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall beat off from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt, and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel.
Isaiah 27:12 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, it talks about a future event where the Israelites will be gathered together one by one by the Lord. The phrase "from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt" is symbolic of the entire region that the Israelites will be gathered from, encompassing a vast area. The act of being gathered "one by one" implies a sense of individual care and attention from the Lord towards each Israelite, highlighting the personal relationship between God and his people. This verse can be seen as a promise of restoration and redemption for the children of Israel, indicating that no one will be left behind or forgotten. It showcases God's sovereignty and his faithful love towards his chosen people, ensuring that they will be brought back together in unity under his divine guidance and protection.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Isaiah 27:12, the phrase "that the LORD shall beat off from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt" has been subject to theological interpretation. Some scholars believe that this refers to God's protection and provision for the people of Israel, guiding them safely from the Euphrates to Egypt, encompassing the whole land. The image of being gathered "one by one" emphasizes the individual care and attention that God gives to each of His children. This verse highlights the intimate relationship between God and the people of Israel, showing His commitment to gather and protect them. The word "beat off" could also be understood as a separation, symbolizing the purification and sanctification of the people. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's loving care and sovereign power over His chosen people.
Isaiah 27:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it shall come to pass in that day, that Jehovah will beat off [his fruit] from the flood of the River unto the brook of Egypt; and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel.
World English Bible
It will happen in that day, that Yahweh will thresh from the flowing stream of the Euphrates to the brook of Egypt; and you will be gathered one by one, children of Israel.
Douay-Rheims
And it shall come to pass, that in that day the Lord will strike from the channel of the river even to the torrent of Egypt, and you shall be gathered together one by one, O ye children of Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And in that day shall the Lord thresh from the chanell of the Riuer vnto the riuer of Egypt, and ye shalbe gathered, one by one, O children of Israel.