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With this chapter the prophet appears to shift into a higher key with a greater sense of expectancy, highlighted by a lofty vision for Zion’s future and punctuated with expressions of abundant blessing.
The darkness of the preceding chapter set the stage for this jubilant announcement: “Arise shine, for your light has come.” The announcement draws on the idea of 9:1-2 and is preparatory to the arrival of God in Christ in the Gospels (Mt 2:2, Lk 1:28-29, and Jn 1:4-5). Zion/Jerusalem is the one place that will be light in the midst of darkness, and all the nations will be drawn to its light (v.3; cf. 2:2-4). Zion will be flooded with the wealth of nations. It will be as in the days of Solomon (note the reference to Sheba in v.6). The purpose of the nations' coming will be to worship Yahweh, thus the reference to animals for sacrifice and appointments for the temple (vv.6-7).
These that fly along like clouds (v.8) is a reference to the sailing ships of Tarshish from the west, which bring rich gifts and more sons of exile.
There seems to be no end to this glorious picture. Foreigners will rebuild Jerusalem. The arrival of foreign kings and their wealth will be constant and uninterrupted (vv.10-16).
Vv.17-22 employ a number of theological terms to convey a state of peace and rest where righteousness rules and salvation reigns. In a brilliant display of poetic vision, the prophet looks to the day when the glorious light of God alone will brighten Jerusalem and when the sun will no longer be needed (vv.19-20). This vision captured the imagination of John (Rev 21:23-26) and it continues to be a source of hope for all who follow Christ and look for the final triumph of God.