In that day shall Israel be the third with Egypt and with Assyria, even a blessing in the midst of the land:

ISAIAH 19:24KJV
Know the Bible

Isaiah 19:24 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 19:24 mean?

Isaiah 19:24 describes a future time when Israel, Egypt, and Assyria will be united in blessing, with Israel counted as the "third" alongside Egypt and Assyria, and together they will be a source of blessing in the region. This verse points to a surprising partnership between former enemies, highlighting a vision of peace and shared purpose.

The prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Judah during a time of political tension and uncertainty, especially involving the powerful nations of Egypt and Assyria. In this verse, Isaiah looks ahead to a day when these three nations—once rivals and often at odds—will stand together, with Israel not isolated but included as an equal part of a trio that brings blessing to "the midst of the land," likely referring to the broader region around them.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 19:24

  • "third" (שְׁלִישִׁי, shelishi): This word means "third" or "a third part." Here, it emphasizes that Israel is not first or second, but stands together with Egypt and Assyria as one of three, highlighting equality and partnership.
  • "blessing" (בְּרָכָה, berakhah): This word means "blessing" or "source of benefit." The verse presents these three nations as a combined blessing, not just to themselves but to the wider area, which is a dramatic reversal from their usual roles as adversaries.
  • "midst" (קֶרֶב, qerev): This word means "middle" or "among." The phrase "in the midst of the land" suggests that this blessing is not hidden or isolated, but central and visible to all.

Why Isaiah 19:24 matters

  • Isaiah 19:24 challenges the expectation that Israel would always be in conflict with its neighbors, instead picturing a future where old enemies become partners in blessing.
  • The verse highlights God's intention for peace and unity among nations that were often seen as irreconcilable, showing a broader vision than just Israel's own restoration.
  • By placing Israel as "the third" with Egypt and Assyria, Isaiah 19:24 emphasizes equality and shared purpose, not dominance, which would have been a surprising and hopeful message to its original audience.

Where else these words appear

“blessing” Hebrew H1293 · used in 64 verses

  • Genesis 12:2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
  • Deuteronomy 28:8 The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
  • Psalms 84:6 Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools.

“third” Hebrew H7992 · used in 94 verses

  • Genesis 1:13 And the evening and the morning were the third day.
  • Judges 20:30 And the children of Israel went up against the children of Benjamin on the third day, and put themselves in array against Gibeah, as at other times.
  • 1 Chronicles 24:23 And the sons of Hebron; Jeriah the first, Amariah the second, Jahaziel the third, Jekameam the fourth.

“Assyria” Hebrew H804 · used in 138 verses

  • Genesis 2:14 And the name of the third river is Hiddekel: that is it which goeth toward the east of Assyria. And the fourth river is Euphrates.
  • 2 Kings 20:6 And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake.
  • Isaiah 36:13 Then Rabshakeh stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language, and said, Hear ye the words of the great king, the king of Assyria.