◄ Isaiah 35 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Glory of Zion 1The wilderness and the dry land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose. 2It will bloom profusely and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon. They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees!a 4Say to those with anxious hearts: “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you.” 5Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6Then the lame will leap like a deer and the mute tongue will shout for joy. For waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert. 7The parched ground will become a pool, the thirsty land springs of water. In the haunt where jackalsb once lay, there will be grass and reeds and papyrus. 8And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it— only those who walk in the Way— and fools will not stray onto it. 9No lion will be there, and no vicious beast will go up on it. Such will not be found there, but the redeemed will walk upon it. 10So the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee. Footnotes: 3 a Cited in Hebrews 12:12 7 b Or serpents or dragons Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 35 Summary The Glory of Zion Verses 1–2 – The Desert Blossoms Isaiah paints a picture of a barren landscape bursting into bloom. The desert “will rejoice and blossom like the crocus… with joy and singing.” Places famous for beauty—Lebanon’s cedars, Carmel’s forests, Sharon’s plain—become yardsticks for the transformed wilderness. The purpose of the spectacle is that “They will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God.” Verses 3–4 – The Message of Courage Weak hands and shaking knees symbolize a people exhausted by judgment and exile. God’s command is simple: “Be strong; do not fear!” A promise follows: “Your God will come with vengeance… He will come to save you.” The same arrival that brings justice on enemies brings rescue to His own. Verses 5–6a – Healing Miracles When God appears, physical limitations vanish: “the eyes of the blind will be opened… the lame will leap like a deer.” These wonders are signs that the Creator is repairing His creation. Verses 6b–7 – Living Waters in the Wilderness Water bursts through the dry ground: pools, streams, reeds, and papyrus in what was jackal territory. The reversal of conditions signals the complete renewal God intends. Verses 8–10 – Highway of Holiness and the Joyful Return A protected road called “the Way of Holiness” leads home. No predators stalk it and no fool can lose the path. “The redeemed will walk upon it… the ransomed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing.” Everlasting joy crowns them; sorrow and sighing disappear. Isaiah 35 is a vibrant prophecy that unfolds a vision of a future filled with hope and joy. This chapter showcases the transformative power of God's redemption, symbolized through the blossoming of the desert. It provides a glimpse of the future divine kingdom where healing, rejoicing, and eternal safety are assured for the redeemed. Historical Context: From Doom to Delight Isaiah 35 follows chapter 34, a vision of global judgment. The sudden shift to celebration shows the pattern of Scripture: after darkness, God shines light (Genesis 1:2-3; Psalm 30:5). For Judah in the eighth century BC, Assyrian threat loomed large, yet God announced a brighter future beyond any immediate crisis. Literary Setting: Twin Chapters 34–35 • Chapter 34: Edom and the nations under wrath. • Chapter 35: Zion and the nations under blessing. The pairing underscores God’s dual role—Judge and Redeemer (Isaiah 33:22). The desert in 35:1 answers the desolation of 34:9-10. Geography and Imagery • Lebanon’s cedars—symbols of strength and majesty (1 Kings 5:6). • Carmel’s mountains—green and fruitful (Song of Songs 7:5). • Sharon’s coastal plain—lush pastureland (Isaiah 33:9). Isaiah picks the loveliest spots his listeners knew and transfers their beauty to the most hopeless terrain. Archaeological Notes: Carmel, Sharon, Lebanon Excavations on Mount Carmel reveal ancient terraces and winepresses, evidence of its famed fertility. Cedar timber from Lebanon has been found in palace ruins from Jerusalem to Egypt, confirming its reputation in international trade. Sharon’s soil still ranks among Israel’s richest; modern flower farms unintentionally echo Isaiah’s image of blossoms. Prophetic Layers: Near and Far Fulfillment 1. Near: Return from Babylon (537 BC). Ezra’s caravans literally crossed arid zones made passable by God’s care (Ezra 8:15-31). 2. Messianic: Jesus performed the miracles Isaiah listed—blind see (Luke 18:35-43), deaf hear (Mark 7:32-37), lame walk (Matthew 11:5). 3. Future: Ultimate realization when creation itself is set free (Romans 8:19-21) and New Jerusalem descends (Revelation 21:1-5). Messianic Echoes in the Gospels John the Baptist’s question “Are You the One?” drew Jesus to cite Isaiah 35:5-6 (Matthew 11:2-6). By healing the blind and lame in the Temple (Matthew 21:14), Jesus linked His ministry to this chapter’s promise of renewed Zion. Connections to the Exodus and Second Exodus Theme • Exodus: God led Israel through a desert with water from a rock (Exodus 17:6). • Isaiah: God will again provide streams in wastelands for the returning exiles (Isaiah 43:19-21). • New Testament: Believers journey toward a better country, also called Zion (Hebrews 12:22). The Way of Holiness: New Covenant Motif Jeremiah 31:31-34 predicts God writing His law on hearts. Jesus declares Himself “the way” (John 14:6). Early believers were known as “the Way” (Acts 9:2). Isaiah’s highway foreshadows a God-made path of salvation guarded from evil. End-Time Restoration: Millennial Kingdom Old Testament prophets envision a renewed earth where deserts flow and predators vanish (Isaiah 11:6-9; Ezekiel 47:1-12). Isaiah 35 slots naturally into that panorama, showing the earth itself rejoicing under the reign of Messiah. Key Word Study: “Redeemed” and “Ransomed” (v. 9-10) • Redeemed – bought back by paying a price (Leviticus 25:24-25). • Ransomed – released from captivity (Exodus 6:6). The double term highlights both payment and liberation, themes fulfilled at the cross (Mark 10:45; 1 Peter 1:18-19). Practical Encouragement: Strengthening Weak Hands Today • Speak hope—Isaiah 35:4 is permission to remind each other that God is coming through. • Serve the hurting—Jesus models Isaiah’s healings; we carry on His works (John 14:12). • Walk the Way—holiness is not perfection first, but direction. Stay on the God-marked road and He guarantees the destination. Intertextual Links • Psalm 107:35-36 – “He turns desert into pools of water.” • Isaiah 51:11 – almost a verbatim echo of 35:10. • Revelation 7:17 – “He will lead them to springs of living water.” The Bible repeatedly circles back to Isaiah 35’s vision, reinforcing that God intends to end the account with joy, not sorrow. Summary Snapshot A ruined land blooms, weak people get courage, broken bodies heal, dry ground flows, and the rescued march home on a holy highway. Isaiah 35 is a postcard from the future mailed to a weary present, sealed with God’s unbreakable promise. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 126:5-6 The theme of joy and restoration is echoed in the promise that those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. Matthew 11:4-5 Jesus' ministry fulfills the prophecy of healing the blind and the lame, as mentioned in Isaiah 35. Revelation 21:4 The ultimate fulfillment of God's promise where there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. Teaching Points The Transformation of the Wilderness (Isaiah 35:1-2) The desert and parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. This imagery symbolizes spiritual renewal and the joy that comes with God's presence. The Glory of God Revealed (Isaiah 35:2) The glory of Lebanon, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon, will be given to the desert. This signifies the manifestation of God's majesty and power in transforming desolation into beauty. Strengthening the Weak (Isaiah 35:3-4) Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees. A call to encourage and support those who are weak and fearful, reminding them of God's coming salvation. Healing and Restoration (Isaiah 35:5-6) The eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. This points to both physical and spiritual healing, a foretaste of the miracles of Jesus. The Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-10) A path of righteousness where the redeemed will walk, free from danger and sorrow. This represents the journey of salvation and the ultimate return to Zion with everlasting joy. Practical Applications Embrace Hope In times of personal desolation, trust in God's promise to bring renewal and joy. Encourage Others Be a source of strength and encouragement to those who are struggling, reminding them of God's faithfulness. Seek Spiritual Healing Open your heart to God's healing power, both physically and spiritually, through prayer and faith. Walk in Holiness Strive to live a life that reflects the righteousness and purity of the Highway of Holiness. People 1. The Redeemed This group refers to those who have been saved or delivered by God. In Isaiah 35:9-10, it states, "But the redeemed will walk there, and the ransomed of the LORD will return." The Hebrew root for "redeemed" (גָּאַל, ga'al) implies being bought back or rescued, often used in the context of God's deliverance of His people. 2. The Ransomed of the LORD Similar to the redeemed, this group is mentioned in Isaiah 35:10, "And the ransomed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing." The term "ransomed" (פָּדָה, padah) in Hebrew conveys the idea of being freed or liberated, often through a payment or substitution, highlighting God's act of salvation. 3. The Blind, Deaf, Lame, and Mute These are symbolic representations of those who will experience healing and restoration. Isaiah 35:5-6 says, "Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy." These figures symbolize the transformative power of God's intervention, often interpreted as the miracles associated with the Messiah. While Isaiah 35 does not mention specific individuals, these groups and symbolic figures are central to the chapter's message of hope and restoration. The chapter is often seen as a foreshadowing of the Messianic age, where physical and spiritual healing will be realized through God's redemptive work. Places 1. The Wilderness and the Desert ^Description^: The chapter begins with a promise of transformation for the wilderness and the desert. These barren places are depicted as rejoicing and blossoming abundantly, symbolizing the renewal and flourishing of God's creation. The Hebrew word for "wilderness" is "מִדְבָּר" (midbar), and "desert" is "עֲרָבָה" (arabah), both indicating dry, desolate areas that will experience divine restoration. 2. Lebanon ^Description^: Lebanon is mentioned as a place whose glory will be given to the transformed wilderness. Known for its majestic cedars, Lebanon represents beauty and strength. The transformation of the wilderness to reflect the glory of Lebanon signifies the bestowal of God's splendor upon His people. 3. Carmel ^Description^: Carmel is another region known for its fertile land and lush vegetation. The mention of Carmel highlights the abundance and beauty that will characterize the renewed land. The Hebrew root "כַּרְמֶל" (karmel) suggests a fruitful and well-cultivated area. 4. Sharon ^Description^: Sharon is a coastal plain known for its richness and fertility. The reference to Sharon emphasizes the prosperity and flourishing that will come with God's restoration. The Hebrew "שָׁרוֹן" (sharon) conveys the idea of a level, fertile plain. Events 1. The Desert Blossoms "The wilderness and the land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose." (Isaiah 35:1) The Hebrew word for "blossom" (פָּרַח, parach) signifies flourishing or bursting forth, indicating a transformation of desolation into beauty and abundance. 2. The Glory of Lebanon "It will bloom abundantly and even rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon." (Isaiah 35:2) This event highlights the transfer of the lushness and majesty of Lebanon, Carmel, and Sharon to the once barren land, symbolizing divine restoration. 3. Strengthening the Weak "Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees." (Isaiah 35:3) The call to strengthen (חָזַק, chazaq) implies encouragement and empowerment for those who are weak or discouraged. 4. Encouragement to the Fearful "Say to those with anxious hearts: 'Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you.'" (Isaiah 35:4) This event reassures the fearful of God's imminent intervention and salvation, emphasizing His justice and deliverance. 5. Healing of the Blind and Deaf "Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped." (Isaiah 35:5) The opening of eyes and ears symbolizes both physical healing and spiritual enlightenment, reflecting God's power to restore. 6. The Lame and Mute Healed "Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy." (Isaiah 35:6) The transformation of the lame and mute signifies miraculous healing and the joy that accompanies divine intervention. 7. Waters in the Wilderness "For waters will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert." (Isaiah 35:6) The imagery of water (מַיִם, mayim) in the desert represents life, renewal, and the fulfillment of God's promises. 8. Transformation of the Parched Ground "The parched ground will become a pool, the thirsty land springs of water." (Isaiah 35:7) This event depicts a miraculous transformation, turning dry land into fertile and life-sustaining areas. 9. The Highway of Holiness "And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it; only those who walk in the Way—and fools will not stray onto it." (Isaiah 35:8) The "Way of Holiness" (דֶּרֶךְ הַקֹּדֶשׁ, derekh ha-qodesh) signifies a path of righteousness and purity, accessible only to the redeemed. 10. Return of the Redeemed "And the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee." (Isaiah 35:10) This final event describes the triumphant return of God's people to Zion, marked by eternal joy and the absence of sorrow, symbolizing ultimate redemption and restoration. Lessons from Isaiah 35 1. The Promise of Restoration Isaiah 35 paints a vivid picture of hope and renewal, reminding us that God is in the business of restoration. The chapter begins with the transformation of the wilderness and desert into a place of beauty and abundance: "The wilderness and the land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose" (Isaiah 35:1). This serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how desolate our circumstances may seem, God has the power to bring life and beauty out of barrenness. 2. Strength for the Weary In times of weakness and fatigue, Isaiah 35 offers encouragement: "Strengthen the limp hands and steady the feeble knees" (Isaiah 35:3). This verse calls us to support one another, to be a source of strength and encouragement for those who are struggling. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in our journey and that God provides the strength we need to persevere. 3. Fear Not, God is Here Fear can be paralyzing, but Isaiah 35:4 reassures us with the words, "Say to those with anxious hearts: 'Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God.'" This is a call to trust in God's presence and sovereignty. When we focus on His promises rather than our fears, we find peace and courage to face any challenge. 4. Divine Healing and Miracles Isaiah 35:5-6 speaks of miraculous healings: "Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy." These verses remind us of God's power to heal and transform lives. They point to the ultimate healing found in Jesus Christ, who came to restore both body and soul. 5. Joyful Transformation The chapter is filled with imagery of joy and celebration. "The ransomed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy" (Isaiah 35:10). This joy is not fleeting but everlasting, a promise of the eternal happiness found in God's presence. It encourages us to live with a spirit of joy, knowing that our ultimate destination is one of eternal celebration. 6. The Highway of Holiness Isaiah 35:8 introduces the "Highway of Holiness," a path reserved for the redeemed. "And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness." This path symbolizes a life dedicated to following God's ways, set apart from the distractions and temptations of the world. It’s a call to live a life of purity and devotion, walking in the footsteps of Christ. 7. Safety and Security in God The chapter assures us of safety on this holy path: "No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there" (Isaiah 35:9). This imagery of protection highlights the security we have in God. When we walk in His ways, we are shielded from the dangers that threaten to derail us. 8. The Call to Rejoice Isaiah 35 is a call to rejoice in the Lord's goodness. "They will enter Zion with singing" (Isaiah 35:10). This is an invitation to worship and praise God for His faithfulness and love. Rejoicing is not just an emotional response but a choice to focus on God's blessings and promises. 9. The End of Sorrow and Sighing The chapter concludes with a promise of the end of sorrow: "Sorrow and sighing will flee" (Isaiah 35:10). This is a powerful reminder that in God's kingdom, pain and suffering are temporary. It encourages us to look forward to the day when God will wipe away every tear and make all things new. 10. Hope for the Future Ultimately, Isaiah 35 is a chapter of hope. It points to a future where God's kingdom is fully realized, where His people experience complete restoration and joy. This hope is anchored in the resurrection of Christ, the ultimate source of our salvation. As we live in anticipation of this future, we are called to share this hope with others, inviting them to experience the transformative power of God's love. Topics 1. The Transformation of the Wilderness (Isaiah 35:1-2) The chapter begins with a promise of transformation, where the wilderness and desert will rejoice and blossom. The Hebrew word for "blossom" (פָּרַח, parach) signifies flourishing and abundance, symbolizing the renewal and joy that will come with God's intervention. 2. The Glory of Lebanon, Carmel, and Sharon (Isaiah 35:2) These regions are known for their beauty and fertility. The text promises that the glory of these places will be given to the desert, indicating a divine reversal and restoration. The Hebrew term for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) implies honor and splendor. 3. Strengthening the Weak and Fearful (Isaiah 35:3-4) The passage calls for encouragement to those with weak hands and feeble knees, urging them to be strong and not fear. This reflects a message of hope and divine reassurance, emphasizing God's coming salvation and vengeance. 4. The Healing of the Blind, Deaf, Lame, and Mute (Isaiah 35:5-6) A prophecy of miraculous healings, where the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped. The Hebrew roots for "blind" (עִוֵּר, ivver) and "deaf" (חֵרֵשׁ, cheresh) highlight the physical and spiritual restoration anticipated in the Messianic age. 5. Streams in the Desert (Isaiah 35:6-7) The imagery of water breaking forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert symbolizes life and sustenance. The Hebrew word for "streams" (נָחַל, nachal) conveys the idea of flowing water, representing God's provision and blessing. 6. The Highway of Holiness (Isaiah 35:8-9) A sacred path called the "Way of Holiness" is described, where the redeemed will walk. The Hebrew term for "holiness" (קֹדֶשׁ, kodesh) underscores the purity and sanctity required to travel this path, reserved for those who are ransomed by the Lord. 7. The Joy of the Redeemed (Isaiah 35:10) The chapter concludes with a vision of everlasting joy and gladness for the redeemed, who will return to Zion with singing. The Hebrew word for "joy" (שִׂמְחָה, simchah) captures the deep, abiding happiness that comes from God's salvation and presence. Themes 1. Restoration and Renewal of Creation Isaiah 35:1-2 describes the transformation of the wilderness and desert into a place of beauty and abundance: "The wilderness and the land will be glad; the desert will rejoice and blossom like a rose." The Hebrew word for "blossom" (פָּרַח, parach) signifies flourishing and thriving, indicating a divine renewal of creation. 2. Divine Retribution and Justice Verse 4 speaks of God's coming to save and bring justice: "Say to those with anxious hearts: 'Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you.'" The theme of divine justice is central, emphasizing God's righteous intervention. 3. Healing and Restoration of the People Verses 5-6 highlight miraculous healings: "Then the eyes of the blind will be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then the lame will leap like a deer, and the mute tongue will shout for joy." The Hebrew roots for "opened" (פָּקַח, paqach) and "unstopped" (פָּתַח, pathach) suggest a complete and divine restoration of physical abilities. 4. Joy and Rejoicing in Salvation The chapter emphasizes joy and gladness as a result of God's salvation. Verse 10 states: "And the redeemed of the LORD will return and enter Zion with singing, crowned with everlasting joy." The Hebrew word for "joy" (שִׂמְחָה, simchah) conveys a deep, abiding happiness rooted in divine deliverance. 5. The Way of Holiness Verse 8 introduces the "Way of Holiness": "And there will be a highway called the Way of Holiness. The unclean will not travel it, only those who walk in the Way—and fools will not stray onto it." This theme underscores the call to holiness and purity, with the Hebrew term for "holiness" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) indicating a separation unto God. 6. Protection and Security for the Redeemed The chapter concludes with a promise of safety for God's people: "No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But the redeemed will walk there" (verse 9). This theme highlights God's protection over His people, ensuring their security on the path of salvation. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Promises Praise God for His promises of restoration and renewal in our lives. Strength for the Weak Pray for those who are weak and fearful, asking God to strengthen and encourage them. Healing and Restoration Seek God's healing for those who are physically or spiritually afflicted. Guidance on the Path of Holiness Ask for God's guidance to walk in righteousness and purity, reflecting His glory in our lives. As we reflect on Isaiah 35, may we be filled with hope and anticipation for the glorious future God has prepared for us, and may we live in the light of His promises today. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Isaiah 35:1–2, how can the desert “blossom abundantly” given current scientific understanding of arid climates? 2. Isaiah 35:5–6 speaks of miraculous healings—what historical or archaeological evidence supports these specific events? 3. Given the severe desert conditions of the Levant, is there any record of water springs appearing as described in Isaiah 35:7? 4. Do the promises of restoration in Isaiah 35 conflict with other biblical prophecies about judgment and desolation of the land? 5. If Isaiah 35 refers to literal transformations, how do we reconcile these claims with the lack of documented large-scale ecological changes in the region? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Isaiah 35 illustrate the transformative power of God's redemption? 2. In what ways can you personally relate to the imagery of a desert blossoming like a crocus? 3. How can the promise of God's vengeance provide comfort and reassurance in today's world? 4. Discuss the symbolism behind the healing miracles outlined in verses 5-7. 5. How can we interpret the Way of Holiness in a modern context? 6. The redeemed are described as walking the Way of Holiness. How can we walk this path in our everyday lives? 7. What personal fears or weaknesses might the encouragement in verses 3-4 speak to in your life? 8. How does the concept of sorrow and sighing fleeing away resonate with your understanding of joy? 9. How does Isaiah 35 shape your understanding of God's vision for the future? 10. How can the themes of this chapter bring hope in a world that often feels like a spiritual wilderness? 11. How can we incorporate the joyful transformation promised in Isaiah 35 into our daily lives? 12. How might the imagery and promises of Isaiah 35 provide comfort during personal trials or societal crises? 13. In what ways can the promises of divine healing in Isaiah 35 inspire us to promote healing in our communities? 14. How can the chapter's vision of a future filled with hope and joy influence your current perspectives and actions? 15. What role does faith play in the realization of the joyful and hopeful future described in Isaiah 35? 16. How does Isaiah 35 deepen our understanding of redemption and restoration? 17. How can the promise of God's protection in verse 10 provide reassurance in times of insecurity or fear? 18. What steps can we take to ensure we're on the "Way of Holiness" described in this chapter? 19. Discuss the impact of the symbolism and metaphor used throughout Isaiah 35 on its overall message and your personal interpretation. 20. In the current state of our world, what practical actions might the joyful and transformative message of Isaiah 35 inspire you to take? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions