Isaiah 1:1

Berean Standard Bible
This is the vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.
 
King James Bible
The 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.
 
NET Bible
Here is the message about Judah and Jerusalem that was revealed to Isaiah son of Amoz during the time when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah reigned over Judah.
 
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Study Bible:
 
The vision
The term "vision" in Hebrew is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which implies a divine revelation or insight given to a prophet. In the context of the Old Testament, visions were a primary means through which God communicated His will and messages to His people. This word sets the tone for the entire book of Isaiah, indicating that what follows is not merely human insight but a divine message. The use of "vision" underscores the authority and sacredness of the prophecy, reminding readers that it is God who speaks through His chosen servant.
 
of Isaiah
The name "Isaiah" in Hebrew is "יְשַׁעְיָהוּ" (Yeshayahu), meaning "Yahweh is salvation." This name is profoundly significant as it encapsulates the central theme of the book: God's salvation for His people. Isaiah, the son of Amoz, is one of the major prophets in the Bible, and his writings are pivotal in both Jewish and Christian traditions. His name serves as a constant reminder of the hope and deliverance that God offers, even amidst judgment and calls for repentance.
 
son of Amoz
The mention of "Amoz" provides a historical anchor for Isaiah, situating him within a specific lineage and time. While little is known about Amoz himself, his mention helps to authenticate Isaiah's identity and role as a prophet. This familial reference also emphasizes the personal nature of God's call, as Isaiah is not an abstract figure but a real person with a heritage and a mission.
 
concerning Judah and Jerusalem
This phrase specifies the primary audience and focus of Isaiah's prophecy. "Judah" and "Jerusalem" were the southern kingdom and its capital, respectively, during the divided monarchy in Israel's history. This geographical and political context is crucial, as it highlights the specific challenges and sins of the people to whom Isaiah was sent. It also underscores the centrality of Jerusalem in God's redemptive plan, as the city holds both historical and eschatological significance in biblical prophecy.
 
in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah
This chronological marker situates Isaiah's ministry within a specific historical framework, spanning the reigns of four kings of Judah. Each king's reign had distinct challenges and spiritual climates, from Uzziah's initial prosperity and subsequent pride to Hezekiah's reforms and faithfulness. Understanding the historical context of these reigns helps readers grasp the urgency and relevance of Isaiah's messages. It also illustrates the continuity of God's prophetic voice across different generations, calling His people to repentance and faithfulness regardless of their circumstances.
 
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Commentary:
 
Authorship and Context:
Isaiah is identified as the son of Amoz, not to be confused with Amos, another prophet. This lineage helps to establish his identity within the prophetic tradition.
 
The verse situates the prophecy during the reigns of four kings of Judah, providing a historical timeframe for when Isaiah was active. This spans from around 740 to 686 BCE, a period marked by political turmoil, foreign threats (particularly from Assyria), and social and moral decay.
 
Nature of the Prophecy:
The term "vision" indicates that what follows is not merely human insight but a divine revelation. In biblical terms, prophets were seen as individuals through whom God communicated messages to His people.
 
Geographical and Theological Focus:
The prophecy is specifically about "Judah and Jerusalem." Judah was one of the two kingdoms after the division of Israel post-Solomon, with Jerusalem being its capital and religious center, where the Temple stood. This focus underscores the theological and political centrality of Jerusalem in Jewish life and faith.
 
Historical Significance:
During these kings' reigns, there were significant shifts in the religious practices of Judah. Uzziah's reign was prosperous but ended with divine judgment due to his pride. Jotham and Hezekiah are noted for their reforms and faithfulness to some extent, while Ahaz is known for his idolatry and reliance on foreign powers rather than God.
 
Theological Implications:
Isaiah's prophecies often deal with themes of judgment, repentance, and hope. This introduction sets the stage for messages that will call for a return to covenant faithfulness, warn of judgment, and offer visions of restoration and divine peace.
 
Literary Role:
This verse serves as a title or heading for the entire book, encapsulating the essence of what follows: divine messages concerning a specific nation and its capital over an extended period, reflecting God's ongoing relationship with His people.
 
In essence, Isaiah 1:1 not only introduces the prophet and his times but also frames the theological narrative of divine judgment and redemption that weaves through the text. It's a call to the reader to understand the subsequent prophecies in the context of Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh, their spiritual condition, and the divine plan for salvation and restoration.