Definition: And he will lift up an ensign to the nations from far, and will hiss unto them from the end of the earth: and, behold, they shall come with speed swiftly:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 5:26. It's a pretty poetic and symbolic statement about God’s future role in the world. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse speaks to God’s intention to restore order and bring about a time of peace and justice for all people on Earth. It’s about a powerful, decisive action that will change things dramatically. Let's dissect it word by word: “And he will lift up an ensign…” - An “ensign” is like a flag or banner. It represents something important – a nation, a group of people, or even the entire world. God’s lifting up this ensign signifies a rising and revealing of His power. “…to the nations from far…” - This means God will be actively involved in bringing order and justice across all corners of the Earth – not just a few places, but every region. “and will hiss unto them from the end of the earth:” - "Hiss" is a dramatic word. It suggests a strong, forceful sound or proclamation. “From the end of the earth” means far away, distant, and significant – perhaps even reaching to the furthest reaches of the planet. “and, behold, they shall come with speed swiftly:” - This is the key part! "They" refers to all people – not just a specific group. The phrase “with speed swiftly” emphasizes that this is not a slow or gradual process but a rapid and decisive movement. So, putting it all together: God intends to raise up a visible sign (the ensign) to alert and guide the world. It’s about a powerful, immediate response that will bring order and justice to everyone on Earth. It’s a declaration of His intent to restore peace and righteousness. Possible Interpretations & Context: The Coming of Christ: Many believe this verse is a prophecy about the coming of Jesus Christ. It speaks to the restoration of God's kingdom and the final triumph over evil. A Time of Judgment: Some interpret it as a foreshadowing of a time of judgment or reckoning, when God will establish His justice and righteousness. A Universal Restoration: Ultimately, it’s about God’s plan to restore everything that is broken and to bring about a new era of peace and harmony. Important Note: Biblical prophecy can be complex, and different interpretations exist. This explanation offers a common understanding of the verse's meaning within its historical context. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the significance of this verse in relation to other books in the Bible?