Isaiah 62:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 62:4
4 Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzi-bah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 62 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, salvation, righteousness. 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
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 62:4
4 Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzi-bah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.
Analysis
'Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah ('my delight is in her'), and thy land Beulah ('married').' These new names reverse the old condition. From abandoned to beloved, from desolate wasteland to fruitful marriage - the Hebrew conveys intimate relationship.
Historical Context
These names became personal names in Israel (2 Kings 21:1 mentions Hephzibah as Hezekiah's wife). The marriage metaphor runs throughout Isaiah and is fulfilled in Christ's relationship to His church.
Reflection
- How do the names Hephzibah and Beulah describe your relationship with God?
- What 'old names' (Forsaken, Desolate) has God replaced with new identity?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 54:1, 61:10, 62:12, Psalms 149:4, Jeremiah 3:14, Zephaniah 3:17
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 60:15, 62:5, Jeremiah 32:41, 1 Peter 2:10