Isaiah 66:18 (KJV) states, "For I know their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory."

This verse is part of the book of Isaiah, which is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. The prophet Isaiah was writing to the people of Israel during a time of political turmoil and spiritual decay. The book is a call to repentance and faithfulness to God, as well as a message of hope for the future.

In Isaiah 66:18, God is speaking about his omniscience and omnipotence. He declares that he knows the works and thoughts of all people, emphasizing his sovereignty over all creation. This verse also speaks to God's plan to gather all nations and tongues to see his glory. This can be interpreted as a reference to the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth.

One of the major themes of this verse is the universalism of God's plan. The gathering of all nations and tongues suggests that God's salvation is not limited to one particular group of people, but is intended for all of humanity. This reflects the broader message of the book of Isaiah, which emphasizes God's concern for all people, not just the Israelites.

Another theme in this verse is the idea of divine knowledge and understanding. God's knowledge of the works and thoughts of all people reflects his perfect understanding of human nature. This speaks to the idea that God is intimately involved in the lives of his creation and is aware of their every action and intention. This can be a comforting thought for believers, knowing that God is aware of their struggles and is working all things for their good.

The concept of seeing God's glory also holds significant symbolism. In the Bible, the glory of God often refers to his presence and power. Seeing God's glory can be a transformative experience, as it can bring about a deep sense of awe and reverence for God. It can also symbolize a revelation of truth and a deepening of faith. The gathering of all nations and tongues to see God's glory represents the universal impact of God's revelation and the spread of his kingdom throughout the world.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its deeper meaning. In the preceding verses, Isaiah describes God's judgment on the wicked and his restoration of Jerusalem. This sets the stage for the promise of a new, universal gathering of people to witness God's glory. The verse also foreshadows the coming of Christ and the spread of the gospel message to all nations, which is a central theme in the New Testament.

Overall, Isaiah 66:18 is a powerful declaration of God's sovereignty, knowledge, and universal plan for salvation. It speaks to the inclusivity of God's love and the transformative power of encountering his glory. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God, as well as a message of hope for the future fulfillment of God's promises. This verse holds deep meaning for believers and encourages them to seek and share the glory of God with all people.