Isaiah 60:17 Meaning and Explanation
“For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God will replace common materials with precious metals, and will install peace and justice in leadership.
The Context of Isaiah 60:17
Material abundance and just governance combine in Jerusalem's restoration.
What Does Isaiah 60:17 Mean?
The verse describes a reversal of material scarcity: brass becomes gold, iron becomes silver, wood becomes brass, and stones become iron. Rather than literal material transformation, this poetic language expresses abundance replacing need. What is ordinary and common is elevated to what is precious and rare. Jerusalem's material circumstances shift from want to prosperity.
The second part addresses governance: 'thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness.' Officers and exactors (tax collectors) will be characterized by peace and righteousness instead of oppression. Leadership itself transforms—from extractive and burdensome to just and peaceful, reflecting God's character.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 60:17
What does Isaiah 60:17 mean?
God will replace common materials with precious metals, and will install peace and justice in leadership.
What is the context of Isaiah 60:17?
Material abundance and just governance combine in Jerusalem's restoration.