Isaiah 35:10
And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
Isaiah 35:10 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah speaks of the redemption and restoration of the people who belong to the Lord. The phrase "the ransomed of the LORD shall return" emphasizes the idea of being rescued and brought back to God. The mention of coming to Zion with songs and everlasting joy portrays a sense of celebration and happiness among the redeemed. The imagery of joy upon their heads symbolizes a constant state of gladness and contentment. The promise of obtaining joy and gladness indicates that the Lord will provide abundance and fulfillment to those who belong to Him. The mention of sorrow and sighing fleeing away conveys the idea of all pain and suffering being eradicated in the presence of the Lord. Overall, this verse highlights the theme of redemption, joy, and the ultimate restoration of God's people to a state of eternal happiness in His presence.
Theological Overview
When considering the theological interpretation of Isaiah 35:10, the concept of the "ransomed of the Lord" is significant. This phrase refers to those who have been redeemed or delivered by God. In this context, the ransomed are depicted as returning to Zion, the holy city of Jerusalem, with songs of joy and everlasting happiness. The mention of joy and gladness symbolizes the restoration and celebration that the redeemed will experience upon their return. The contrasting image of sorrow and sighing fleeing away signifies a complete transformation from the previous state of distress to one of abundant joy and peace. This passage is often interpreted as a promise of salvation and deliverance for those who trust in the Lord, assuring them of a future filled with divine blessings and everlasting happiness.
Isaiah 35:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the ransomed of Jehovah shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads: they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
World English Bible
The Yahweh’s ransomed ones will return, and come with singing to Zion; and everlasting joy will be on their heads. They will obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.”
Douay-Rheims
And the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and shall come into Sion with praise, and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall returne and come to Zion with prayse: and euerlasting ioy shall bee vpon their heads: they shall obteine ioye and gladnesse, and sorow and mourning shall flee away.