Isaiah 55:5 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 55:5 mean?

Isaiah 55:5 describes how people from nations unfamiliar to Israel will be drawn to Israel and come running, not because of Israel itself, but because of the LORD (Yahweh) and the Holy One of Israel, who has honored or glorified Israel. The verse points to a future time when outsiders will be attracted by what God has done for His people.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is speaking to Israel, promising that God’s work will cause other nations—those Israel does not know and who do not know Israel—to seek them out. The reason for this sudden attention is not Israel’s own greatness, but the glory and reputation given by God (Yahweh), who is called the Holy One of Israel. This fits into a larger section where Isaiah describes God’s generous invitation and the blessings that will flow out to the world.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 55:5

• The word “call” (קָרָא, qaraʾ, H7121) means to summon or invite. Here, it shows Israel taking an active role in reaching out to other nations, not just passively waiting.
• “Nation” and “nations” (גּוֹי, goy, H1471) refer to peoples or groups outside Israel. The repetition highlights the broad, international scope of the promise.
• “Run” (רוּץ, ruts, H7323) suggests eagerness and urgency. The nations are not just coming—they are running to Israel, showing strong desire or need.
• “Glorified” (פָּאַר, paʾar, H6286) means to make beautiful or honor. The verse credits God with giving Israel a special status that attracts others.

Why Isaiah 55:5 matters

• Isaiah 55:5 clarifies that Israel’s influence and honor among the nations is not self-made, but a result of God’s action and blessing.
• The verse emphasizes the universal reach of God’s promises, hinting that God’s work in Israel is meant to draw in people from all backgrounds, not just Israelites.
• This verse helps set the tone for the surrounding chapter, which invites everyone to seek God and receive His blessings, showing that God’s plan is outward-looking and generous.