Isaiah 63:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 63:16
16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 63 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, 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
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
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 63:16
16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.
Analysis
'Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.' Even if patriarchs wouldn't recognize the current generation (so changed by suffering and sin), God remains Father and Redeemer. The Hebrew 'ab' (father) is emphasized twice. Relationship transcends human lineage.
Historical Context
This remarkable confession acknowledges a relationship to God deeper than Abrahamic descent. It anticipates New Testament teaching about spiritual sonship through faith.
Reflection
- How is your relationship with God more fundamental than any human connection?
- What comfort comes from calling God 'Father' when all other relationships fail?
Word Studies
- Redeem: גָּאַל (Gaal) H1350 - To redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 64:8, Deuteronomy 32:6, Malachi 1:6
- Redemption: Isaiah 41:14, 43:14, 44:6
- References Israel: Jeremiah 31:9
- Parallel theme: Job 14:21, Jeremiah 3:19, Malachi 2:10