Isaiah 66:10

Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her:

Isaiah 66:10 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands in the final chapter of Isaiah, a book filled with prophecies about Israel’s restoration and the coming of God’s kingdom. In Isaiah 66, the prophet looks ahead to Jerusalem’s future glory and the renewal of God’s people. The immediate setting contrasts past judgment with the joy that God will bring after sorrow.

Meaning

The opening call, “Rejoice ye with Jerusalem,” invites God’s people to share in the city’s gladness. Jerusalem was the capital of Israel and the place where God’s presence dwelt in the temple, so its joy was never merely political. The next phrase, “and be glad with her, all ye that love her,” extends the invitation to everyone whose heart is tied to the city, whether as residents or through spiritual devotion.

The final line, “rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her,” addresses those who grieved over Jerusalem’s desolation and destruction. Their season of weeping is ending; God is reversing the city’s fortunes, and mourning gives way to exuberant joy. This is not private emotion but a shared, communal celebration, because God’s restorative work touches the whole community.

Biblical connections

The joy promised here echoes Isaiah 65:18, where God declares He will create Jerusalem a rejoicing and her people a joy. In Isaiah 66:11-13, the picture expands: those who mourn will be comforted and satisfied, and God promises to extend peace to her like a river and to comfort His people as a mother comforts her child. These verses show that the call to rejoice rests on God’s own faithful action.

Application

Isaiah 66:10 also speaks metaphorically. Jerusalem represents the people of God, and the command to rejoice with her applies to all who love God’s promises. Believers are invited to share in the joy of God’s work, both in the world and in their own lives. Rejoicing becomes an act of faith, aligning the heart with God’s redemptive purposes and trusting that His restoration is certain.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that God’s promises of restoration and blessing are sure. Those who mourn over sin, loss, or the brokenness around them can look forward to a time when God will turn sorrow into joy. Until then, we are called to rejoice in His faithfulness, knowing that He who promised will fulfill it.