Isaiah 22:20

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah.”

Context:This verse is a part of a prophecy given by the prophet Isaiah concerning the impending judgment and destruction of Jerusalem. In the preceding verses, Isaiah denounces the pride and arrogance of the leaders and inhabitants of Jerusalem. In verse 15, specifically, Isaiah refers to Shebna, who was the steward or administrator of the palace, and pronounces judgment upon him.

In Isaiah 22:20, God declares that in that day, He will call His servant Eliakim, the son of Hilkiah, to take the place of Shebna. This appointment of Eliakim signifies a significant change in leadership and authority within the kingdom.

To understand the significance of this verse, it’s helpful to look at the context and the historical background. Eliakim is described as the son of Hilkiah, and although it is unclear if this is the same Hilkiah who was the high priest during the reign of King Josiah (2 Kings 22:4), the name suggests a lineage associated with the priesthood.

In the verses that follow (Isaiah 22:21-25), God speaks about the authority and responsibility He will bestow upon Eliakim. Eliakim will have the key of the house of David, which represents significant authority and control over the royal household. He will have the power to open and shut doors, symbolizing his authority to grant or deny access to the king.

This prophecy is significant because it emphasizes God’s sovereignty in appointing leaders and His ability to remove those who are unworthy or corrupt. Shebna, who had abused his position and acted selfishly, would be replaced by Eliakim, whom God saw as a faithful and capable servant.