Who Is Isaiah in the Bible?

Jun 30,2025 00:00

Who Is Isaiah in the Bible?

Isaiah, active in the 8th century BC, is one of Israel’s major prophets. His ministry spans the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, a time of political upheaval and moral decline.

1. Call and Commission

In Isaiah 6, he experiences a vision of the Lord enthroned. Overwhelmed by sinfulness, he receives a cleansing coal from the altar and commissions to deliver God’s message: “Here am I; send me” (v. 8).

2. Major Themes

  • Judgment on Judah and Nations: Isaiah warns of Assyrian invasion as divine discipline (chaps. 7–10).
  • Messianic Hope: Prophecies of a coming righteous King—“For to us a child is born…” (Isa 9:6)—point to Jesus.
  • Ultimate Restoration: In chapters 40–66, comfort and promise of return from exile, new heavens and new earth.

3. Literary Influence

Isaiah’s poetic imagery—“swords into plowshares,” “he shall feed His flock like a shepherd”—has shaped Jewish and Christian liturgy, inspiring artists and preachers across centuries.

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