Bible Dictionary
THIRD
Third denotes the third position or division. In Isaiah 19:24, Israel is described as the third alongside Egypt and Assyria, expressing a prophetic vision of Israel’s place in God’s wider purpose among the nations.
Definition
Third denotes the third position or division in an order. In the prophetic statement concerning Israel, Egypt, and Assyria, it identifies Israel as the third member of the group.
Biblical Usage
Isaiah speaks of Israel as “the third with Egypt and with Assyria.” The statement presents Israel’s place within a wider purpose involving the nations and displays the universal and missionary character attributed to Isaiah’s prophecy.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>thurd (shelishi; tritos): Isa 19:24, "In that day shall Israel be the third with Egypt and with Assyria," etc., brings out very distinctly the universal and missionary character of Isaiah's prophecies and of Israel's destiny (compare Eze 16:63; and see G. A. Smith, Isaiah, II, 275, 278; Watkinson, Th. Blind Spot 21 ff).</p><p>For "third hour," "third month," "third year," see CALENDAR; DAY; TIME.</p>