Isaiah 19:18 Meaning and Explanation
“In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt speak the language of Canaan, and swear to the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of destruction.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →In that future day, Egyptian cities will adopt Canaan's language and worship and swear allegiance to God; one city will be called 'City of Destruction.'
The Context of Isaiah 19:18
In restoration, Egyptian cities will embrace the worship of the God of Israel.
What Does Isaiah 19:18 Mean?
After the devastation, something unexpected happens: five Egyptian cities will speak 'the language of Canaan'—adopting Hebrew language and, symbolically, Hebrew culture and religion. This reflects a spiritual transformation. They will 'swear to the LORD'—make covenants with the God of Israel. This indicates profound conversion and commitment, not coercion.
One city will be called 'The City of Destruction'—Ir-Heres or Heliopolis. Even in naming, there is transformation. A city previously dedicated to the sun god (Ra) now bears a name acknowledging divine judgment. This suggests repentance, where even destruction becomes a witness to God's reality.
Isaiah 19:18 in the Original Language
Sefat Kena'an (שְׂפַת כְּנַעַן), 'language of Canaan'—Hebrew language and, by extension, covenant relationship with Israel's God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 19:18
What does Isaiah 19:18 mean?
In that future day, Egyptian cities will adopt Canaan's language and worship and swear allegiance to God; one city will be called 'City of Destruction.'
What is the context of Isaiah 19:18?
In restoration, Egyptian cities will embrace the worship of the God of Israel.