King James Version

What Does Isaiah 33:19 Mean?

“Thou shalt not see a fierce people, a people of a deeper speech than thou canst perceive; of a stammering tongue, that thou canst not understand. stammering: or, ridiculous”

Context

Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off. that: Heb. of far distances

Thine heart shall meditate terror. Where is the scribe? where is the receiver? where is he that counted the towers? receiver: Heb. weigher?

Thou shalt not see a fierce people, a people of a deeper speech than thou canst perceive; of a stammering tongue, that thou canst not understand. stammering: or, ridiculous

Look upon Zion, the city of our solemnities: thine eyes shall see Jerusalem a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down; not one of the stakes thereof shall ever be removed, neither shall any of the cords thereof be broken.

But there the glorious LORD will be unto us a place of broad rivers and streams; wherein shall go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby. of: Heb. broad of spaces, or, hands

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Thou shalt not see a fierce people . . .**—Better, *The fierce people thou shalt not see ***. . .** The words answer the question just asked. The whole Assyrian army, with their barbarous, unintelligible speech (Isaiah 28:11), shall have passed away.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Isaiah 33:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.