“A Redeemer will come to Zion, And to those who turn from transgression in Jacob,” declares the LORD. (v.20) These words come from the book of Isaiah, composed by the prophet Isaiah, who ministered from around 740 BC to 680 BC. In this verse, the promise of a Redeemer is directed specifically toward Zion, which is the name often used to refer to Jerusalem. Geographically, Zion (also called Mount Zion) is the easternmost of the two hills of ancient Jerusalem, serving as a focal point of God’s promises to His people. Several centuries before this prophecy, David had united the tribes of Israel, and Solomon built the Temple in this region, making it the center of worship. Now, the prophet proclaims a future redemption that will come to this very place and to those who repent of their sins.
“A Redeemer will come to Zion…” (v.20) speaks of God’s rescue for His people. The term “Redeemer” suggests someone who buys back or rescues individuals from bondage. In the historical context, Israel’s disobedience led them into hardship and exile, but they were assured that God Himself would provide deliverance if they turned away from transgressions. This Redeemer role ultimately finds deeper meaning in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ is recognized as the ultimate Redeemer, bringing spiritual freedom to those who trust in Him (Romans 11:26).
Furthermore, “…And to those who turn from transgression in Jacob,” declares the LORD. (v.20) emphasizes that redemption is offered not merely on the basis of belonging to the lineage of Jacob—who lived around the 19th century BC and was the namesake for the people of Israel—but it is extended to those who genuinely repent. Spiritual transformation accompanies the Redeemer’s coming, highlighting God’s desire for a restored relationship. This relationship is built on faith, repentance, and a renewed covenant, achieved by God’s saving intervention both historically and spiritually.
Set to dark mode
Isaiah 59:20 meaning
“A Redeemer will come to Zion, And to those who turn from transgression in Jacob,” declares the LORD. (v.20) These words come from the book of Isaiah, composed by the prophet Isaiah, who ministered from around 740 BC to 680 BC. In this verse, the promise of a Redeemer is directed specifically toward Zion, which is the name often used to refer to Jerusalem. Geographically, Zion (also called Mount Zion) is the easternmost of the two hills of ancient Jerusalem, serving as a focal point of God’s promises to His people. Several centuries before this prophecy, David had united the tribes of Israel, and Solomon built the Temple in this region, making it the center of worship. Now, the prophet proclaims a future redemption that will come to this very place and to those who repent of their sins.
“A Redeemer will come to Zion…” (v.20) speaks of God’s rescue for His people. The term “Redeemer” suggests someone who buys back or rescues individuals from bondage. In the historical context, Israel’s disobedience led them into hardship and exile, but they were assured that God Himself would provide deliverance if they turned away from transgressions. This Redeemer role ultimately finds deeper meaning in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ is recognized as the ultimate Redeemer, bringing spiritual freedom to those who trust in Him (Romans 11:26).
Furthermore, “…And to those who turn from transgression in Jacob,” declares the LORD. (v.20) emphasizes that redemption is offered not merely on the basis of belonging to the lineage of Jacob—who lived around the 19th century BC and was the namesake for the people of Israel—but it is extended to those who genuinely repent. Spiritual transformation accompanies the Redeemer’s coming, highlighting God’s desire for a restored relationship. This relationship is built on faith, repentance, and a renewed covenant, achieved by God’s saving intervention both historically and spiritually.