Isaiah 66:23 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 66:23 mean?

Isaiah 66:23 says that in the future, all people from every nation will regularly come to worship God, not just on special occasions but from one new moon to the next and from one Sabbath to the next. This verse pictures a time when worship of the LORD will be universal and ongoing, involving "all flesh"—meaning everyone, not just Israel.

In this passage, the prophet Isaiah is speaking God's words to the people of Israel near the end of his book. The setting is a vision of a renewed world after judgment, where God’s presence is recognized by all humanity. The mention of "new moon" and "Sabbath" refers to regular times of worship in Israel’s calendar, but here it is expanded to include all people, showing a broad and inclusive vision for the future.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 66:23

• "flesh" (בָּשָׂר, basar): This word means "all people" or "all humanity." Its use here emphasizes that the invitation to worship is not limited to Israel but is for everyone.
• "worship" (שָׁחָה, shachah): This verb means "to bow down" or "to prostrate oneself." In this context, it highlights a deep respect and submission before God, not just attendance at a religious event.
• "before" (פָּנִים, panim): This word means "in the presence of" or "before the face of." It stresses the idea of coming directly into God’s presence, not worshiping from a distance.

Why Isaiah 66:23 matters

• Isaiah 66:23 clears up the idea that worship of God is only for a specific group or nation; instead, it shows God’s intention for all people everywhere to come before Him.
• The verse emphasizes the regularity and continuity of worship, using Israel’s calendar terms ("new moon" and "Sabbath") to show that this is not a one-time event but an ongoing relationship.
• This vision connects to the larger theme in Isaiah 66 of God making all things new and gathering people from every nation, pointing to a future where God’s presence is recognized and honored worldwide.