And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah:

ISAIAH 22:20KJV
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Isaiah 22:20 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 22:20 mean?

Isaiah 22:20 announces that God will summon Eliakim, the son of Hilkiah, to serve a special role at a particular time. The verse is a turning point, signaling that Eliakim is being chosen by God for a significant responsibility.

In this part of Isaiah, God is speaking through the prophet Isaiah to the people of Jerusalem. The context is a time of political upheaval, where leaders are being replaced. Eliakim is named as a trustworthy servant who will be called to step into leadership, replacing someone unfaithful. This verse sets the stage for a change in authority and signals hope for better leadership.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 22:20

  • "day" (יוֹם, yom): This word is often used to mark a specific time when God acts. Here, it points to a decisive moment when God will intervene in Jerusalem’s affairs.
  • "call" (קָרָא, qara): This verb means to summon or appoint. It emphasizes that Eliakim’s new role is not by chance but by God’s direct choice.
  • "servant" (עֶבֶד, eved): This term highlights Eliakim’s position as someone who serves God’s purposes, not just a political figure but a trusted agent of God’s will.

Why Isaiah 22:20 matters

  • The verse clarifies that Eliakim’s appointment is God’s decision, not just a political maneuver, which stresses the idea of divine authority over human leadership.
  • By calling Eliakim a "servant," the verse underscores the importance of faithful service, contrasting him with previous leaders who failed in their duties.
  • This verse marks a shift in the chapter from judgment to hope, showing that even in times of crisis, God provides new leadership for His people.

Where else these words appear

“Eliakim” Hebrew H471 · used in 12 verses

  • 2 Kings 18:18 And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder.
  • 2 Kings 19:2 And he sent Eliakim, which was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the priests, covered with sackcloth, to Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz.
  • Isaiah 36:3 Then came forth unto him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, which was over the house, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder.

“Hilkiah” Hebrew H2518 · used in 31 verses

  • 2 Kings 18:18 And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder.
  • 1 Chronicles 6:13 And Shallum begat Hilkiah, and Hilkiah begat Azariah,
  • 2 Chronicles 35:8 And his princes gave willingly unto the people, to the priests, and to the Levites: Hilkiah and Zechariah and Jehiel, rulers of the house of God, gave unto the priests for the passover offerings two thousand and six hundred small cattle, and three hundred oxen.