Old Testament
Isaiah 59:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"A Redeemer will come to Zion — to those in Jacob who turn away from their rebellion," declares the LORD.
Compare translations
And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.
What Isaiah 59:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God promises that a Redeemer will come to Zion, which represents His people, particularly those from Jacob (the descendants of Israel). This Redeemer is meant for those who turn away from their sins and rebellion against God. The message emphasizes the hope of salvation and restoration for those who repent. It highlights God's willingness to forgive and redeem those who seek Him sincerely. The term 'Redeemer' signifies someone who rescues or delivers, pointing to the future coming of Christ, who fulfills this role by offering salvation to all who believe. This verse reassures the faithful that despite their struggles and failures, there is always a path back to God through repentance and faith. It serves as a reminder of God's grace and mercy, encouraging individuals to turn away from wrongdoing and embrace a relationship with Him.
How to apply Isaiah 59:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek redemption through repentance. No matter our past mistakes, we can turn back to God and receive His forgiveness. It reminds us to help others find their way back to faith, emphasizing the importance of sharing the message of hope and salvation.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 59:20
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 59:20
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 59:20 mean?
Isaiah 59:20 means that God promises a Redeemer will come to His people, specifically to those who turn away from their sins. It emphasizes the hope of salvation for those who repent and seek a relationship with God.
What is the meaning of 'Redeemer' in Isaiah 59:20?
In Isaiah 59:20, 'Redeemer' refers to someone who rescues or delivers, pointing to the future coming of Christ. This term signifies God's promise to save those who turn from their rebellion and seek forgiveness.
How does Isaiah 59:20 relate to repentance?
Isaiah 59:20 relates to repentance by stating that the Redeemer comes to those who turn away from their transgressions. It underscores the importance of acknowledging one's sins and seeking forgiveness to receive God's mercy.
What themes are present in Isaiah 59:20?
The themes present in Isaiah 59:20 include redemption, repentance, hope, divine mercy, and restoration. These themes highlight God's willingness to forgive and the promise of salvation for those who seek Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.