King James Version

What Does Isaiah 52:12 Mean?

“For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward. be: Heb. gather you up”

Context

The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.

Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.

For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward. be: Heb. gather you up

Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. deal: or, prosper

As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Ye shall not go out with haste . . .**—The words contrast the exodus from Babylon with that from Egypt (Exodus 12:39; Deuteronomy 16:3). In the essential point, however, of Divine protection, the resemblance would be greater than the contrast. Jehovah would still be once more both the vanguard and the rear-guard of the great procession.

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 52:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.