Isaiah 42:6
I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;
Isaiah 42:6 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse 'I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;' is a powerful message from God to His chosen people. In this verse, God is communicating his promise to guide and protect his people. The phrase 'called thee in righteousness' signifies that God has called his people to live in a righteous manner, following his commands and walking in his ways. By saying 'will hold thine hand' and 'will keep thee,' God is assuring his people that he will never abandon them and will always be there to support them through every trial and tribulation. The phrase 'give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles' indicates that God's people are chosen to be a shining example to others, spreading the light of God's love and truth to all nations.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the Lord is speaking to His chosen servant whom He has called in righteousness. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's faithfulness in guiding and protecting His people. The act of holding someone's hand signifies support, guidance, and intimate care. By promising to hold the hand of His servant, the Lord assures him of His constant presence and assistance throughout his mission. The use of the word "covenant" signifies the special relationship between God and His people, where the chosen servant is to be a living testament to God's promises. Additionally, being a "light of the Gentiles" reflects the inclusivity of God's salvation plan, where His light shines not only on the Israelites but also on the non-Jewish nations. Overall, this verse highlights God's righteous calling, His unwavering protection, and His universal salvation plan for all people.
Isaiah 42:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
I, Jehovah, have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thy hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;
World English Bible
“I, Yahweh, have called you in righteousness, and will hold your hand, and will keep you, and make you a covenant for the people, as a light for the nations;
Douay-Rheims
I the Lord have called thee in justice, and taken thee by the hand, and preserved thee. And I have given thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles:
Geneva Bible (1599)
I the Lord haue called thee in righteousnesse, and will hold thine hand, and I will keepe thee, and giue thee for a couenant of the people, and for a light of the Gentiles,