Isaiah 19:21 Meaning and Explanation
“And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Lord will reveal Himself to Egypt; Egyptians will know Him, worship through sacrifice and offering, and make binding covenants with Him.
The Context of Isaiah 19:21
Egypt will experience a complete spiritual transformation, coming to know and sincerely worship the Lord.
What Does Isaiah 19:21 Mean?
Egypt will move from ignorance or rejection of God to genuine knowledge of Him. 'Know' here means intimate relational knowledge, not mere intellectual awareness. This knowledge will move them to 'sacrifice and oblation'—worship practices that acknowledge dependence on God and desire for covenant relationship. They will become a worshiping people.
The vow made to God and performed indicates sincere commitment. These aren't empty religious gestures but binding promises kept. The transformation is complete: from a nation that persecuted God's people to a nation that serves and vows fidelity to the God of Israel. This shows God's redemptive purpose even for nations that oppose Him.
Isaiah 19:21 in the Original Language
yada (יָדַע), 'know'—relational, intimate knowledge, not mere information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 19:21
What does Isaiah 19:21 mean?
The Lord will reveal Himself to Egypt; Egyptians will know Him, worship through sacrifice and offering, and make binding covenants with Him.
What is the context of Isaiah 19:21?
Egypt will experience a complete spiritual transformation, coming to know and sincerely worship the Lord.