Isaiah 60:18 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 60:18 mean?

Isaiah 60:18 describes a future time when violence, destruction, and ruin will no longer be experienced or even heard about in the land, and instead, the city’s protective walls will be called “Salvation” and its gates “Praise.” This verse paints a picture of complete peace, safety, and joy replacing all former trouble and loss.

In Isaiah 60:18, the prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Jerusalem, describing a vision of restoration and blessing after a long period of suffering and exile. The verse uses strong images—like calling the city’s walls “Salvation” (a sign of protection and rescue) and its gates “Praise” (a symbol of joyful entry)—to show how radically different life will be when God brings renewal. The focus is on a transformed community where harm and sorrow are gone, and security and celebration take their place.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 60:18

• The word for “violence” is חָמָס (ḥāmās), which often refers to cruelty, injustice, or wrong done to others. Its absence here highlights a total end to oppression and harm.
• “Wasting” is שֹׁד (shōd), meaning devastation or plundering, and “destruction” is שֶׁבֶר (shever), meaning breaking or ruin. Both words stress that not only will violence stop, but all forms of loss and disaster will be removed from within the community’s borders.
• The word for “Salvation” is יְשׁוּעָה (yeshu‘ah), which means deliverance or rescue. Naming the walls “Salvation” suggests that protection comes directly from God’s saving power, not from human strength.
• “Praise” is תְּהִלָּה (tehillah), meaning song or expression of praise. Calling the gates “Praise” shows that entry into the city is marked by joyful gratitude, not fear or sorrow.

Why Isaiah 60:18 matters

• Isaiah 60:18 clears up the idea that peace is only the absence of conflict; here, peace is described as a positive presence of salvation and praise, not just a lack of violence.
• The verse emphasizes that the transformation is so complete that even the city’s physical features—walls and gates—are renamed to reflect God’s work, showing how deep and visible the change will be.
• This verse connects to the wider chapter, which describes the future glory and restoration of Jerusalem, helping readers see the hope and renewal promised after hardship.