📖 The Book of Isaiah
Start reading →Old Testament · 66 chapters · Prophet
Judgment and salvation — the Holy One of Israel redeems his people.
Who wrote Isaiah?
Traditional view: Isaiah of Jerusalem wrote all 66 chapters. Critical view: chs. 40-66 are by later 'Deutero-/Trito-Isaiah' (c. 540 BC).
Why Isaiah was written
The greatest of the prophets, Isaiah announces judgment on Israel's sin and on the nations, but also promises a coming Servant-King who will bring salvation, a new exodus, and a new creation.
Outline of Isaiah
- 11–39: 'The Book of Judgment' — oracles of woe against Israel and the nations
- 240–55: 'The Book of Comfort' — the Servant Songs; return from exile; the new exodus
- 356–66: 'The Book of Restoration' — the new creation and eternal kingdom
Key verses
How Isaiah points to Christ
Isaiah is sometimes called 'the fifth Gospel.' The four Servant Songs (42, 49, 50, 53) describe Christ's ministry, suffering, and atoning death with extraordinary precision. Isaiah 9:6-7 names the Messiah; Isaiah 53 describes the crucifixion.
How Isaiah begins
1The 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.
Read Isaiah 1 →