Isaiah - Authorized King James Version (KJV)

Introduction

Isaiah is a prophetic book in the Old Testament that communicates divine messages of warning, judgment, and hope to God's people. The prophecies combine historical relevance to their original audience with enduring theological significance and, in some cases, messianic predictions.

Like other biblical prophetic literature, Isaiah addresses covenant violations, calls for repentance, and proclaims both divine judgment and promised restoration. The prophecies demonstrate God's righteousness, sovereignty over history, and faithful commitment to His covenant purposes.

Throughout Isaiah, readers encounter powerful imagery, poetic language, and symbolic actions that reinforce the prophetic message. The book reveals God's perspective on historical events and human affairs, often challenging conventional wisdom and cultural assumptions.

Historical Context

Isaiah prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (c. 740-680 BCE), a period of Assyrian expansion and threat to Judah. The book addresses multiple historical contexts spanning from the eighth century through the post-exilic period.

Assyrian Crisis

Isaiah's ministry occurred during Assyria's westward expansion under Tiglath-Pileser III, Sargon II, and Sennacherib. The Assyrian siege of Jerusalem (701 BCE) forms a crucial backdrop for Isaiah's prophecies. Assyrian records confirm their campaigns against Judah and Jerusalem's remarkable survival.

International Context

Isaiah's prophecies against foreign nations reflect the complex international situation during the eighth-seventh centuries BCE. The rise and fall of Damascus, Samaria, Egypt, Babylon, and other powers provide historical framework for understanding Isaiah's oracles.

Major Themes

The book develops several significant theological themes:

Divine Wisdom

True wisdom begins with reverence for God and aligns human understanding with divine perspective. This wisdom provides insight for navigating life's complexities and making decisions that honor God.

Creation's Order

The book reflects on patterns and principles embedded in the created order. By observing these patterns, humans can better understand how to live in harmony with God's design.

Human Experience

The text honestly addresses the full range of human emotions, questions, and struggles. This realistic portrayal validates authentic expression while directing these experiences toward God.

Ethical Living

Practical guidance for relationships, speech, work, and character development demonstrates how divine wisdom applies to everyday decisions and interactions.

Key Passages

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
2 Timothy 2:15