Isaiah 66:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 66:13
13 As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 66 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, holiness, worship. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 66:13
13 As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem.
Analysis
God makes an extraordinary promise: "As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem." The comparison to maternal comfort is tender and intimate. The Hebrew nacham (comfort) appears three times, emphasizing certainty and completeness. God Himself provides the comfort, comparing His care to a mother consoling her child. This reveals divine compassion—God is not distant or uncaring but intimately involved in comforting His people. The location "in Jerusalem" grounds this promise historically while pointing to eschatological fulfillment. From a Reformed perspective, this reveals God's compassionate character. While primarily revealed as Father, God's care includes maternal-like tenderness (Deuteronomy 32:18, Psalm 131:2, Matthew 23:37). The Holy Spirit is the Comforter (John 14:16, 26, 15:26, 16:7), applying Christ's redemptive work to provide comprehensive consolation. Believers experience divine comfort in the church ("Jerusalem"), the community of faith where God's presence dwells.
Historical Context
The exiled community desperately needed comfort after Jerusalem's destruction and decades of captivity (Isaiah 40:1, 51:3, 12). The promise looked to restoration and beyond. Jesus provided comfort through His ministry (Matthew 11:28-30) and promised the Spirit as Comforter (John 14:16-18). The church experiences divine comfort through the Spirit's ministry (Acts 9:31, 2 Corinthians 1:3-5, 7:6). Complete fulfillment comes in the New Jerusalem where God personally wipes away all tears (Revelation 21:3-4). Then comfort is permanent, not temporary—all sources of sorrow eternally removed.
Reflection
- How does God's maternal-like comfort differ from or complement His fatherly care?
- In what ways do believers experience divine comfort 'in Jerusalem'—the church community?
- How can we better mediate God's comfort to fellow believers who are suffering?
Cross-References
- References Jerusalem: Isaiah 66:10, Psalms 137:6
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 40:1, 51:3, 2 Corinthians 1:4, 1 Thessalonians 2:7