Isaiah 26:2
Isaiah 26:2 in Multiple Translations
Open the gates so a righteous nation may enter— one that remains faithful.
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth faith may enter in.
Let the doors be open, so that the upright nation which keeps faith may come in.
Open the gates so the nation that does right may enter, the nation that stays faithful.
Open ye the gates that the righteous nation, which keepeth the trueth, may enter in.
Open ye the gates, that enter may a righteous nation, Preserving stedfastness.
Open the gates, that the righteous nation may enter: the one which keeps faith.
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
Open ye the gates, and let the just nation, that keepeth the truth, enter in.
Open the gates of the city for people who are righteous; allow people who faithfully obey Yahweh to enter the city.
Berean Amplified Bible — Isaiah 26:2
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Isaiah 26:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
פִּתְח֖וּ
שְׁעָרִ֑ים
וְ/יָבֹ֥א
גוֹי
צַדִּ֖יק
שֹׁמֵ֥ר
אֱמֻנִֽים
פִּתְח֖וּ
pâthach
H6605
to open
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
שְׁעָרִ֑ים
shaʻar
H8179
gate
N-mp
וְ/יָבֹ֥א
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
גוֹי
gôwy
H1471
Gentile
N-ms
צַדִּ֖יק
tsaddîyq
H6662
righteous
Adj
שֹׁמֵ֥ר
shâmar
H8104
to keep
V-Qal
אֱמֻנִֽים
ʼêmûwn
H529
faithful
N-mp
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Isaiah 26:2
פִּתְח֖וּ
pâthach
H6605
"to open"
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
This verb means to engrave or carve, and is used in Exodus to describe the intricate carvings on the furniture of the tabernacle.
Definition: 1) to open 1a) (Qal) to open 1b) (Niphal) to be opened, be let loose, be thrown open 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to free 1c2) to loosen 1c3) to open, open oneself 1d) (Hithpael) to loose oneself Aramaic equivalent: pe.tach (פְּתַח "to open" H6606)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: appear, break forth, draw (out), let go free, (en-) grave(-n), loose (self), (be, be set) open(-ing), put off, ungird, unstop, have vent. See also: Genesis 7:11; Psalms 39:10; Psalms 5:10.
שְׁעָרִ֑ים
shaʻar
H8179
"gate"
N-mp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a gate or door, often referring to city entrances or temple doors, like in Genesis and Exodus. It can also symbolize a meeting place or marketplace. The word is used to describe important locations in the Bible.
Definition: : gate 1) gate 1a) gate (of entrance) 1b) gate (of space inside gate, i.e. marketplace, public meeting place) 1b1) city, town 1c) gate (of palace, royal castle, temple, court of tabernacle) 1d) heaven
Usage: Occurs in 302 OT verses. KJV: city, door, gate, port ([idiom] -er). See also: Genesis 19:1; 1 Chronicles 9:18; Psalms 9:14.
וְ/יָבֹ֥א
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
גוֹי
gôwy
H1471
"Gentile"
N-ms
This word refers to a Gentile, someone who is not Hebrew or Israeli. It can also describe a large group of animals or a nation of people, emphasizing their unity and shared identity.
Definition: 1) nation, people 1a) nation, people 1a1) usually of non-Hebrew people 1a2) of descendants of Abraham 1a3) of Israel 1b) of swarm of locusts, other animals (fig.) 1c) Goyim? = "nations" Also named: ethnos (ἔθνος "Gentiles" G1484)
Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: Gentile, heathen, nation, people. See also: Genesis 10:5; Judges 4:16; Psalms 2:1.
צַדִּ֖יק
tsaddîyq
H6662
"righteous"
Adj
Means being just or righteous, as seen in government, personal conduct, or character, often describing someone made right with God. It appears in descriptions of King David and other biblical leaders. The concept is central to the Bible's teachings on morality and ethics.
Definition: 1) just, lawful, righteous 1a) just, righteous (in government) 1b) just, right (in one's cause) 1c) just, righteous (in conduct and character) 1d) righteous (as justified and vindicated by God) 1e) right, correct, lawful
Usage: Occurs in 197 OT verses. KJV: just, lawful, righteous (man). See also: Genesis 6:9; Proverbs 10:31; Psalms 1:5.
שֹׁמֵ֥ר
shâmar
H8104
"to keep"
V-Qal
To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.
Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from
Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.
אֱמֻנִֽים
ʼêmûwn
H529
"faithful"
N-mp
Faithful means being trustworthy and reliable, like God's promises in the Bible. It describes someone who is loyal and true to their word. This word is used in the Old Testament to describe God's faithfulness.
Definition: 1) faithfulness, trusting 1a) faithful, trusty (as adj.)
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: faith(-ful), truth. See also: Deuteronomy 32:20; Proverbs 14:5; Proverbs 13:17.
Study Notes — Isaiah 26:2
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Isaiah 26:2 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 26:2
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 26:2
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
- Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
- Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
- Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 26:2
- Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 26:2
- Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
- Sermons on Isaiah 26:2
Context — A Song of Salvation
1In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; salvation is established as its walls and ramparts.
2Open the gates so a righteous nation may enter— one that remains faithful.
3You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You. 4Trust in the LORD forever, because GOD the LORD is the Rock eternal.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Revelation 5:9 | And they sang a new song: “Worthy are You to take the scroll and open its seals, because You were slain, and by Your blood You purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. |
| 2 | Isaiah 60:11 | Your gates will always stand open; they will never be shut, day or night, so that the wealth of the nations may be brought into you, with their kings being led in procession. |
| 3 | 1 Peter 2:9 | But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. |
| 4 | Psalms 118:20 | This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it. |
| 5 | Isaiah 62:10 | Go out, go out through the gates; prepare the way for the people! Build it up, build up the highway; clear away the stones; raise a banner for the nations! |
| 6 | Isaiah 62:2 | Nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. |
| 7 | Isaiah 60:21 | Then all your people will be righteous; they will possess the land forever; they are the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, so that I may be glorified. |
| 8 | Isaiah 54:14 | In righteousness you will be established, far from oppression, for you will have no fear. Terror will be far removed, for it will not come near you. |
| 9 | Ezekiel 48:31–34 | the gates of the city will be named after the tribes of Israel. On the north side there will be three gates: the gate of Reuben, the gate of Judah, and the gate of Levi. On the east side, which will be 4,500 cubits long, there will be three gates: the gate of Joseph, the gate of Benjamin, and the gate of Dan. On the south side, which will be 4,500 cubits long, there will be three gates: the gate of Simeon, the gate of Issachar, and the gate of Zebulun. And on the west side, which will be 4,500 cubits long, there will be three gates: the gate of Gad, the gate of Asher, and the gate of Naphtali. |
| 10 | Acts 2:47 | praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. |
Isaiah 26:2 Summary
Isaiah 26:2 is talking about a special nation that loves and follows God. This nation is allowed to enter a safe and strong city because they are faithful to God. Just like how a strong city has walls to protect it, God protects those who trust in Him, as we see in Psalm 91:1-2. We can learn from this verse that being faithful to God and trusting in Him is important for our own protection and peace, and it's something we can practice every day, just like it says in Matthew 6:33 to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for a nation to be righteous?
A righteous nation is one that follows God's laws and principles, as seen in Isaiah 26:2, and is faithful to Him, much like the description of a faithful servant in Matthew 25:21-23.
How can a nation remain faithful?
A nation remains faithful by trusting in God and following His commands, as expressed in Proverbs 3:5-6, which says to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.
What is the significance of opening the gates for a righteous nation?
Opening the gates for a righteous nation symbolizes welcoming and including those who are faithful to God, much like the city of God described in Revelation 21:25-27, where nothing unclean will enter.
Is this verse only referring to the nation of Israel?
While Isaiah 26:2 is written in the context of the nation of Israel, the principle of righteousness and faithfulness applies to all nations and peoples, as seen in Galatians 3:28, which says that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate faithfulness to God in my daily life?
- How can I contribute to creating a righteous community around me?
- What does it mean for me to trust in God's power and provision, especially in times of uncertainty?
- In what ways can I be a 'gate-opener' for others to experience God's love and righteousness?
Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 26:2
Open ye the gates,.... Not of Jerusalem, literally understood, nor of heaven; rather of the New Jerusalem, whose gates are described, Revelation 21:12 at least of the church in the latter day; the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 26:2
Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
Open ye the gates of the city, mentioned . The righteous nation; either, 1. Those godly Jews who are returning from Babylon; or, 2. The whole body of righteous and holy men, whether Jews or Gentiles. For he seems to speak here, as he apparently did in the foregoing chapter, of the times of the gospel. Which keepeth the truth; which is sincere and stedfast in the profession and practice of the true religion.
Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
Isaiah 26:2 Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.Ver. 2. Open ye the gates.] Room for the righteous, for such only are freemen of this city; such only are written among the living in Jerusalem. And this seemeth spoken to those doorkeepers, the ministers, to whom God hath committed the keys of his kingdom, setting them as upon a watch tower to keep out enemies, and to let in the true citizens. That the righteous nation which keepeth the truth.] Heb., The truths, or faiths, as Peter hath "godliness," that both observeth Christ’ s law and preserveth it; "striving together for the faith of the gospel," and accounting every particle of truth precious. And here we have a true definition of a right Church member. Civil righteousness is but a beautiful abomination. If men lay not faith for a foundation to their virtue, it is no better than a glistering sin.
Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
(2) Open ye the gates . . .—The cry comes as from the heralds of the king of the heavenly city, proclaiming that the gates are open to those who are worthy to enter into it, i.e., to the righteous people who alone may dwell in the city of God (Psalms 15:1-2; Psalms 24:3-4; Psalms 118:19-20; Revelation 21:27.) The truth.—Literally, truths; all the many forms of truthfulness in heart and life.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
Verse 2. The righteous nation] The converted Gentiles shall have the gates opened - a full entrance into all the glories and privileges of the Gospel; being fellow heirs with the converted Jews. The Jewish peculiarity is destroyed, for the middle wall of partition is broken down. The truth] The Gospel itself - as the fulfilment of all the ancient types, shadows, and ceremonies; and therefore termed the truth, in opposition to all those shadowy rites and ceremonies. "The law was given by Moses; but grace and TRUTH came by Jesus Christ;" John 1:17, and See Clarke on John 1:17.
Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 26:2
2. Comp. Psalms 118:19-20; Revelation 22:14. “Truth” here means “troth,” fidelity (Deuteronomy 32:20).
Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 26:2
Open ye the gates - This is probably the language of a chorus responding to the sentiment in Isaiah 26:1.
Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 26:2
2. Open… gates — The choral style of the twenty-fourth psalm appears here, but the responsive chorus does not here, as there, appear.
Sermons on Isaiah 26:2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Zion's Gates and the King's Highway - Part 2 by J.C. Philpot | J.C. Philpot preaches about the gates that need to be opened in the journey of faith, starting with the gate of hope, which is anchored in a good hope through grace and leads to a |
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Ten Shekels and a Shirt (High Quality) by Paris Reidhead | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Micah in Judges Chapter 17. He discusses two groups of people: the liberals who embrace humanism and the believers who serve the |
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Worship (Part 3 of 3) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the eternal consequences of our actions and the need to love and worship God wholeheartedly. He shares a perso |
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Women That Make a Difference by Elisabeth Elliot | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and responsibilities of being a mother. She shares anecdotes of her own experiences, highlighting the constant demands and inte |
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(Biographies) Adoniram Judson by John Piper | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of guarding the deposit of the gospel with fences. He warns against the consequences of not protecting the truth of the gospel |
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(Worship - Part 1): He Is Lord, Worship Him by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the purpose of God creating man, which is to worship Him. However, due to the fall of man through sin, humanity has failed to fulfill this p |
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The Excellency of Christ by Jonathan Edwards | In this sermon by Jonathan Edwards, he preaches on the excellency of Christ, focusing on Revelation 5:5-6. Edwards emphasizes that it is unnecessary for people to labor and toil fo |