Old Testament
Isaiah 33:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But there the glorious LORD will be to us like a place of broad rivers and streams; no galley with oars will go there, nor will any gallant ship pass by.
Compare translations
But there the glorious LORD will be unto us a place of broad rivers and streams; wherein shall go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass thereby.
What Isaiah 33:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 33:21, the verse emphasizes the presence of the glorious LORD as a source of safety and abundance. The imagery of broad rivers and streams suggests a place of peace and nourishment, contrasting with the absence of military ships, which indicates that this is a secure and protected area. The mention of no galley with oars or gallant ships passing by signifies that there will be no conflict or threat in this divine space. It highlights the idea that where God is present, there is tranquility and provision, free from the chaos of war and strife. This verse reassures believers that in God's presence, they will find refuge and sustenance, much like a river provides life and nourishment. It paints a picture of a divine sanctuary where God's glory reigns, offering comfort and hope to those who seek Him.
How to apply Isaiah 33:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek God's presence in our lives, as it brings peace and security. In times of trouble, we can find refuge in Him, trusting that He provides for our needs and protects us from harm. Embrace His guidance and comfort.
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.

Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 33:21
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 33:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 33:21 mean?
Isaiah 33:21 highlights the glorious presence of the LORD as a source of safety and abundance, using the imagery of broad rivers and streams to symbolize peace and nourishment. It contrasts this divine space with the absence of military ships, indicating a secure environment free from conflict.
What is the meaning of 'broad rivers and streams' in Isaiah 33:21?
The phrase 'broad rivers and streams' in Isaiah 33:21 symbolizes a place of peace, abundance, and nourishment. It reflects the idea that God's presence provides for our needs and offers a sense of tranquility.
How does Isaiah 33:21 relate to God's protection?
Isaiah 33:21 illustrates God's protection by depicting a secure place where no military threats exist. This imagery reassures believers that in God's presence, they are safe and provided for, free from chaos and strife.
What themes are present in Isaiah 33:21?
The themes in Isaiah 33:21 include God's presence, safety, abundance, peace, and divine protection. It contrasts the tranquility found in God's sanctuary with the chaos of conflict, offering comfort to those who seek Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.