King James Version

What Does Isaiah 57:19 Mean?

Isaiah 57:19 in the King James Version says “I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will...” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 57 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him.”

Isaiah 57:19 · KJV

Peace

Context

17

For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart. frowardly: Heb. turning away

18

I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners.

19

I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him.

20

But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.

21

There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.

Read Isaiah 57 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
God creates "the fruit of the lips" (niv sefatayim)—praise and confession that flows from renewed hearts. This echoes Hebrews 13:15, "the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." The double pronouncement "Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near" announces comprehensive reconciliation. "Far off" and "near" likely distinguish Gentiles from Jews (Ephesians 2:13-17), though also representing the distant exiles and those remaining in the land. Paul explicitly quotes this verse to describe Christ's reconciling work (Ephesians 2:17). The Hebrew shalom encompasses complete well-being, wholeness, and right relationship with God—the comprehensive salvation provided through Christ's atonement. The verse concludes, "saith the LORD; and I will heal him"—God both announces peace and accomplishes the healing necessary for it. This is the gospel in miniature: God creates faith and repentance (fruit of lips), announces peace through Christ, and heals our relationship with Him.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The immediate historical reference is to restored exiles (near) and those still scattered (far off) receiving God's peace. However, the New Testament's interpretation shows the ultimate fulfillment in Christ breaking down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, creating one new people reconciled to God (Ephesians 2:11-22). The early church saw this as prophesying gospel expansion to all nations.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's creation of 'the fruit of the lips' demonstrate that even our faith and praise are gifts of grace?
  2. What does Christ's achievement of peace for those 'far off' and 'near' mean for the church's mission?
  3. In what ways have you experienced the comprehensive healing and peace that God promises?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
בּוֹרֵ֖א1 of 10

“I create”

H1254

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

נִ֣וב2 of 10

“the fruit”

H5108

produce, literally or figuratively

שְׂפָתָ֑יִם3 of 10

“of the lips”

H8193

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

שָׁל֜וֹם4 of 10

“Peace”

H7965

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

שָׁל֜וֹם5 of 10

“Peace”

H7965

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

לָרָח֧וֹק6 of 10

“to him that is far off”

H7350

remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)

וְלַקָּר֛וֹב7 of 10

“and to him that is near”

H7138

near (in place, kindred or time)

אָמַ֥ר8 of 10

“saith”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָ֖ה9 of 10

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וּרְפָאתִֽיו׃10 of 10

“and I will heal”

H7495

properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure

Study Guide

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 57:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Isaiah 57:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Acts 2:39Hebrews 13:15Luke 2:14Ephesians 6:19Acts 10:36Luke 21:15

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