Isaiah 61:6 Meaning and Explanation
“But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: men shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Israel becomes a royal priesthood, mediating blessing and feasting on the abundance of the nations.
The Context of Isaiah 61:6
Exile had stripped Israel of status and security. The prophet envisions their restoration not just to freedom but to leadership and blessing.
What Does Isaiah 61:6 Mean?
Israel becomes a royal priesthood before all nations. What was their shame, exile, loss, smallness, becomes dignity: they mediate blessing, they feast on abundance, they stand in the light. The language is exalted. They are not servants anymore but priests, ministers of God himself. The riches of the Gentiles, the wealth of the world, becomes theirs to enjoy. This is not greed but vindication: the Lord restores to them what was lost and adds honor.
The reversal is complete. Once they were captive; now they dine on the riches of nations. Once they were ashamed; now they boast in the glory that has been restored to them. This is covenant renewal at its height: they are named, known, honored, and satisfied. The Gentiles themselves acknowledge the priestly status of God's redeemed people.
Isaiah 61:6 in the Original Language
kohanim (Hebrew), 'priests' -- those who mediate between heaven and earth, who stand in God's presence and offer on behalf of others.
How to Apply Isaiah 61:6 Today
In Christ, every believer becomes a priest, a minister of God. Our privilege is to mediate his grace to others and to feast on his abundance without shame.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 61:6
What does Isaiah 61:6 mean?
Israel becomes a royal priesthood, mediating blessing and feasting on the abundance of the nations.
What is the context of Isaiah 61:6?
Exile had stripped Israel of status and security. The prophet envisions their restoration not just to freedom but to leadership and blessing.
How can I apply Isaiah 61:6 today?
In Christ, every believer becomes a priest, a minister of God. Our privilege is to mediate his grace to others and to feast on his abundance without shame.