Old Testament

Isaiah 26:1

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

On that day, this song will be sung throughout the land of Judah: "We have a strong city! God himself has set up salvation as our walls and defenses.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks.

What Isaiah 26:1 means

Plain-English insight for readers

Isaiah 26:1 speaks of a future time when the people of Judah will celebrate their security and salvation. The 'strong city' symbolizes a place of refuge and safety, established by God. The mention of salvation as walls and defenses highlights that their protection comes not from physical structures but from divine intervention. This song reflects a deep sense of gratitude and assurance in God's promises. The people recognize that their strength lies in their faith and relationship with God, who provides them with safety and hope. This verse encourages believers to trust in God's ability to protect and save, especially in times of trouble. It emphasizes the importance of faith in God's salvation as the ultimate source of security, contrasting with reliance on human efforts or fortifications. The imagery of a song suggests joy and unity among the people as they acknowledge God's role in their deliverance and safety.

How to apply Isaiah 26:1 to your life

In our lives, we can find comfort in knowing that true security comes from God. When facing challenges, we should remember to rely on His strength and salvation rather than our own efforts. Singing praises and expressing gratitude can help reinforce our faith and remind us of God's protective presence.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the king setting the royal crown on the head of Esther as she kneels before his throne, while the court looks on

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Esther

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Isaiah 26:1

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Isaiah 26:1

At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah

Author
Isaiah the prophet
Written
Around 700 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah and the surrounding nations

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 26:1 mean?

Isaiah 26:1 speaks about a future time when the people of Judah will sing a song celebrating their strong city, symbolizing God's protection and salvation. It emphasizes that their security comes from divine intervention rather than human efforts.

What is the meaning of 'strong city' in Isaiah 26:1?

In Isaiah 26:1, 'strong city' represents a place of refuge and safety established by God. It signifies that true security and protection are found in God's salvation.

What does the phrase 'salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks' mean?

The phrase means that God's salvation serves as the protective walls and defenses for His people. It highlights that their safety relies on God's power rather than physical barriers.

How can we apply Isaiah 26:1 in our lives?

We can apply Isaiah 26:1 by trusting in God's strength and salvation during challenges. Remembering to express gratitude and praise can reinforce our faith and awareness of God's protective presence.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.