Some of the best-known prophecies, and most glorious promises of God in the Bible, are found within the prophecy of Isaiah. The name ‘Isaiah’ means ‘God of salvation’ or ‘God who saves’. However, much of this prophecy is centered around the judgment of God. It is
important to note that salvation and judgment are not unrelated. It is only through judgment that salvation can be manifested. When God pours out His wrath upon this world, we are told in Revelation 19:1-7, there is going to be rejoicing in heaven as it is God’s
judgement that is going to give birth to the Kingdom of God.

Verse 1: “A vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.”

A vision: Isaiah does not start off this prophecy as so many of the prophets did. He does not call it a burden or a word from the Lord. Over a long period of time, Isaiah, much like John in the book of Revelation, encounted visions from the Lord.

Judah: Referring to the Southern Kingdom.

Jerusalem: The capital of the Southern Kingdom. It was the place where God had caused His Name to dwell, and where He (despite being omnipresent) manifested Himself in a unique way.

Uzziah: Also called Azariah (2 Kings 15:1-7). He reigned for 52 years.

Jotham: Uzziah’s son (2 Kings 15:32-38). He reigned for 16 years.

Ahaz: Jotham’s son (2 Kings 16). He reigned for 16 years.

Hezekiah: Ahaz’s son (2 Kings 18-20). He reigned for 29 years.

Kings of Judah: In a unique way this verse places emphasis on Judah, the Southern Kingdom.

Note: Many scholars estimate that Isaiah received this prophecy over a period of approximately 60 to 65 years. Rabbinical scholars say that it was even longer than this. The fact that Isaiah was a prophet for this length of time would have given him a degree of
power, respect and influence over the people in his day.

Verse 2: “Hear O heavens and give ear O land! For the Lord has spoken: ‘Children I have raised and exalted, but they have transgressed against Me.’”

Hear O heavens and give ear O land: There is a hint of creation in these words – not of the first creation found in Genesis 1, but of the second…that of the establishment of the Kingdom of God.

The Lord has spoken: Although this is written in the past tense the implication is that God is going to speak. When the past tense is used it shows completeness. It is as if it has already happened.

Children I have raised and exalted: God brought the Jewish people into existence, and He exalted them, He chose them; they are His chosen people.

But: Although many translate this word as ‘and’ it should be be interpreted as ‘but’ because it shows a contrast.

Transgressed: Sinned against (broken spiritual laws) and committed a crime against (they did not only break the spiritual laws, but they also broke the civil laws. They violated the laws of God as well as the laws of man).