Book introduction
The book of Isaiah
Isaiah is the longest of the prophets. It warns Judah of judgment, then turns to comfort, promising a return from exile, a suffering servant, and new heavens and a new earth. The New Testament quotes it more than almost any other book.
Read Isaiah 40Start at chapter 1
Who wrote Isaiah?
Isaiah son of Amoz prophesied in Jerusalem in the 700s BC. Many scholars think chapters 40–66 come from later prophets in Isaiah’s tradition, during and after the exile, since they speak to that time and name Cyrus. Others hold that Isaiah wrote the whole book.
When was it written?
Isaiah’s ministry was about 740–700 BC. Chapters 40–66 are dated to the 500s BC by those who see later authors.
Main themes
- The Holy One of Israel
- Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness in chapter 6 shapes the book.
- Judgment and hope
- God judges pride and injustice, and promises to restore.
- The servant
- The servant who suffers for others (chapter 53) is read by Christians as Jesus.
- Comfort
- “Comfort, comfort my people” opens the second half.
Outline of Isaiah
Key verses
Then I heard the Lord’s voice asking, “Whom am I to send, and who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am; send me.”
For a child has been born to us, a son has been given to us, and authority will rest on his shoulder. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
but those who wait in hope for Yahweh will draw fresh strength. They will rise on pinions like eagles; they will run and not wear out; they will walk and not tire.
But he was pierced because of our transgressions, crushed because of our iniquities; the discipline that secured our peace was laid on him, and by his wounds healing has come to us.
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Start with chapter 40, then read 52:13–53:12. Go back to chapter 6 for Isaiah’s call.
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Questions about Isaiah?
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