Old Testament

Isaiah 60:2

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

Look — darkness will blanket the earth, and deep darkness will cover the nations. But the LORD will rise over you, and his glory will be visible upon you.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.

What Isaiah 60:2 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse from Isaiah highlights a stark contrast between the darkness that envelops the world and the light that God provides to His people. The 'darkness' symbolizes moral and spiritual decline, affecting nations and individuals alike. However, the promise is that despite this pervasive darkness, the Lord will shine His light upon His people, making His glory evident in their lives. This assurance serves as a reminder that God’s presence brings hope and illumination, even in the bleakest circumstances. The imagery of light overcoming darkness is a powerful theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing that God’s glory can transform lives and situations. The verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God’s light will guide and protect them, making them a beacon of hope to others. In essence, while the world may be shrouded in darkness, those who trust in the Lord can experience His radiant presence and reflect that light to those around them.

How to apply Isaiah 60:2 to your life

In times of personal or societal darkness, remember that God’s light can shine through you. Seek His presence through prayer and scripture, allowing His glory to transform your life. Share this light with others, offering hope and encouragement in difficult times.

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 60:2

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 60:2

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 60:2 mean?

Isaiah 60:2 contrasts the darkness covering the earth with the light of the Lord shining on His people. It symbolizes the moral and spiritual decline in the world, while assuring believers that God's presence brings hope and illumination.

What is the significance of darkness in Isaiah 60:2?

In Isaiah 60:2, darkness represents moral and spiritual decline affecting nations and individuals. It highlights the challenges faced in the world, emphasizing the need for God's light to overcome this darkness.

How can I apply Isaiah 60:2 in my life?

You can apply Isaiah 60:2 by seeking God's presence through prayer and scripture, allowing His light to transform you. Share this light with others to offer hope and encouragement during difficult times.

What themes are present in Isaiah 60:2?

Key themes in Isaiah 60:2 include darkness and light, God's glory, hope, spiritual illumination, and faith. These themes emphasize the contrast between the world's struggles and the hope found in God's presence.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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