Isaiah 35:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 35:9
9 No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:
Chapter Context
Isaiah 35 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, hope, sacrifice. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 35:9
9 No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:
Analysis
The promise "No lion shall be there" removes danger from God's highway, echoing Eden's pre-fall safety and anticipating the peaceable kingdom (Isaiah 11:6-9). "Ravenous beasts" represent spiritual dangers—Satan as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8) cannot access this protected way. "The redeemed shall walk there" specifies who travels this highway—only those purchased by God's grace. This security assures believers that nothing can separate them from God's love (Romans 8:38-39).
Historical Context
Travel in the ancient world involved real danger from wild animals and bandits. A safe highway represented unprecedented security and divine protection.
Reflection
- How does Christ's redemption provide security from spiritual enemies?
- What does it mean that only the redeemed can walk this way?
- How should this assurance of security affect our confidence in persevering to glory?
Word Studies
- Redeem: גָּאַל (Gaal) H1350 - To redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer
Cross-References
- Redemption: Isaiah 62:12