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Isaiah 9

21 verses

TL;DR

Isaiah 9 warns of impending judgment against Israel’s rebellious nations while also prophesying a future child who will bring everlasting peace and justice.

Summary

Isaiah 9 opens with a reminder of Israel’s past affliction and a promise that darkness will not be as severe as before. The prophet declares that those who have walked in darkness will now see a great light, signifying God’s deliverance. He laments that Israel’s increasing population has not brought joy, yet God has broken their yoke and will bring a mighty ruler. The chapter prophesies a child born whose name will include Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, and whose reign will bring everlasting justice on David’s throne. The prophet then speaks of the Lord’s judgment against the enemies of Israel, condemning the people for turning away from Him, and describes the dire consequences that will follow.

Outline
  1. 1‑3: Israel’s darkness and God’s promise of light
  2. 4‑7: Broken yoke and the coming child with titles of kingship
  3. 8‑21: Judgment against Israel’s enemies and warning of the people’s disobedience
Themes
Judgment and redemptionThe Messiah as a ruler of peaceThe consequences of turning away from God
Keywords
lightdarknesschildkingdompeacejusticeyokefirejudgment
People
ZebulunNaphtaliMidianDavidRezinManassehEphraimSamaria
Places
JordanGalileeIsraelEphraimSamariaRezin
Things
lightdarknessyokerodfirecedarskingdompeacejustice
Key Verses
  • Isaiah 9:6: Introduces the child’s titles and messianic significance
  • Isaiah 9:7: Declares the eternal kingdom and everlasting peace
  • Isaiah 9:1: Shows the shift from darkness to great light, framing the chapter’s hope
Questions
  • How does Isaiah 9 portray the relationship between judgment and hope?
  • In what ways do the titles of the child in verse 6 reflect the nature of his reign?
  • What does the repeated imagery of light and darkness reveal about Israel’s spiritual state?
Sentiment

mixed
Contains both judgmental warnings and hopeful messianic promise