What is the darkness that covers the earth in Isaiah 60?
The darkness covering the earth in Isaiah 60 is identified as spiritual darkness, a gross darkness upon the people. It stands in contrast to the glory of the Lord rising upon Israel, so that Gentiles and kings come to the light and brightness of Israel's rising.
Les explains that the darkness covering the earth in Isaiah 60 is not physical but spiritual darkness. He notes the text says gross darkness covers the people, but the Lord shall arise upon Israel, and His glory shall be seen upon Israel. The result is that Gentiles shall come to Israel's light, and kings to the brightness of Israel's rising. This contrast highlights spiritual darkness over the earth versus the Lord's glory shining through Israel.
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.
More Questions
Who is the 'thee' in Isaiah 60 that the Lord's glory arises upon?
The 'thee' in Isaiah 60 upon whom the Lord arises and His glory is seen is Israel.
What does Isaiah 60:2-3 say about the darkness and the Gentiles coming to Israel's light?
In this prophetic passage, the darkness that covers the earth is spiritual darkness, gross darkness is upon the people Israel, and then the LORD will arise upon the nation of Israel with His glory, after which the Gentiles come to Israel's light.