Isaiah 6:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 6:3
3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 6 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, grace, wisdom. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-13: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 6:3
3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Analysis
The seraphim's antiphonal cry 'Holy, holy, holy' (trisagion) emphasizes God's supreme holiness—the only attribute given three-fold repetition in Scripture. 'LORD of hosts' connects His holiness to sovereign power. The declaration 'the whole earth is full of His glory' contrasts God's transcendent holiness with His immanent presence—He is both utterly separate from creation and fills it with glory. This anticipates Habakkuk 2:14 and the Great Commission spreading God's glory.
Historical Context
This trisagion forms the basis of liturgical worship in both Judaism and Christianity. The Sanctus in Christian liturgy quotes this verse, connecting earthly worship with heavenly praise.
Reflection
- How does God's holiness affect your worship—does it inspire awe or merely familiarity?
- Where do you see God's glory filling the earth despite prevalent evil?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Ezra 3:11
- Glory: Exodus 15:11, Numbers 14:21, Psalms 57:11, 72:19