26:1 On that day Prophecies about the day of judgment and the day of ultimate salvation are both introduced with the phrase “on/in that day.” This rhetorical technique kept the original audience from becoming complacent as they listened to the prophet—uncertain whether he would next voice judgment against them or comfort and hope for restoration. The reference to a song to be sung echoes 12:1, where a hymn of thanksgiving follows the foretelling of an ideal age of messianic justice. Compare 11:11; 12:1.

in the land of Judah The global disaster (or apocalypse) of ch. 24 recedes, and Yahweh’s special relationship with Judah and His dwelling in Jerusalem comes into focus. The entire world will experience blessing through God’s relationship with His covenant people (Gen 12:2–3).

We have a strong city Compare the image of a wasted and empty city in Isa 24:10 and 25:2.

victory like walls and ramparts See 60:18.

26:2 Open the gates The gates of the metaphorical city were in ruins in 24:12.

the righteous nation who keeps faithfulness Describes the restoration of the righteous remnant.

26:3 You will protect a firm inclination in peace, in peace The righteous can count on peace instead of war, destruction, and judgment as long as they continue to trust in Yahweh. Judgment came because they did not fully trust in Yahweh.

26:4 an everlasting rock The image of a rock is a common metaphor for God in biblical poetry (see Psa 18:1–3; 31:3; 71:3; Deut 32:30–31). Here, the metaphor brings out the trustworthiness of God.

26:5 he has thrown down the inhabitants of the height A common image of judgment: God humbles those who exalt themselves (see Isa 2:9–12).

He lays it low to the ground See 25:12.

26:6 the feet of the poor God casts down the proud, but the poor and needy who were formerly oppressed assist in the judgment.

26:7 a straight path; you clear the level path of the righteous The tone in vv. 7–10 is reminiscent of a wisdom psalm or proverb focused on how suffering produces character and teaches righteousness. See Prov 3:5–6.

26:9 the inhabitants of the world learn God’s judgment is intended to bring repentance; it is corrective, not just punitive. Distress and disaster help people realize their need for a Savior.

26:11 Yahweh, though your hand reaches high Describes God’s hand raised in judgment (see Isa 23:11; 10:4).

they do not see Currently, the enemies of Judah oppress but do not see the divine design and the truth that Yahweh has not deserted His people (see 5:12).

26:12 you will establish peace for us The focus shifts to the peace that will come in the messianic age (see 9:7; Mic 5:5).

26:13 but we praise your name alone While Israel has served other overlords, they acknowledge Yahweh alone is their true sovereign.

26:14 dead spirits do not rise See Isa 14:9 and note. The foreign kings they once served are dead and gone. They are now weak and powerless in the underworld.

26:15 You have added to the nation A reversal of fortune; world empires had steadily been taking away territory from Israel and Judah.

26:16 Yahweh, in distress they have visited you See note on v. 9.

an incantation Acknowledges the pattern of disbelief, oppression, and deliverance experienced through Israel and Judah’s history. The current generation is confessing to the sins of their ancestors.

26:17 Like a pregnant woman on the point of giving birth, she writhes Israel and Judah suffered through pain and trials.

26:18 We cannot bring about deliverance on the earth Perhaps an allusion to Gen 12:2–3, where Abraham’s descendants are presented as the channel of blessing for the entire world. They admit their failure in this calling, as the image of pregnancy and labor reflects hard work that results in nothing.

26:19 Your dead shall live Restoration and resurrection is coming, but judgment must be completed first (see Isa 26:20–21).

26:21 punish the iniquity of the inhabitants of the earth Returns to the theme of cosmic judgment deserved because of excessive bloodshed (see Isa 24:1–6).