Among the most beautiful biblical poetry, and most uplifting prophecy, belongs to the prophet known as Second Isaiah. The prophet who called on Israel to “Prepare a way for the Lord,” who proclaimed “Comfort, comfort, O my people,” and who gave us the lasting image of the suffering servant, is distinct from the original prophet Isaiah of Jerusalem (known as First Isaiah).
Writing from the perspective of the exile, Second Isaiah calls for Israel’s glorious return from captivity, and introduces new ideas about God, and God’s relationship to humanity – ideas that would have a profound impact on the history of Jewish and Christian thought. This study will explore the poetry, prophecy, and world of Second Isaiah.
