In the year that King Uzziah died
This phrase sets the historical context for Isaiah's vision. King Uzziah's reign was marked by prosperity and military success, but it ended in tragedy due to his pride and subsequent leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). The death of Uzziah symbolizes a time of transition and uncertainty for Judah. The Hebrew word for "died" (מוּת, muth) often signifies not just physical death but also the end of an era. This context underscores the need for divine guidance and revelation during times of national and personal upheaval.

I saw the Lord
The Hebrew word for "saw" (רָאָה, ra'ah) implies a profound, spiritual vision rather than a mere physical sight. Isaiah's encounter with the "Lord" (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai) is a theophany, a direct and awe-inspiring revelation of God's presence. This vision emphasizes God's sovereignty and holiness, providing a stark contrast to the earthly kingship of Uzziah. It serves as a reminder that, despite human failures, God remains the ultimate authority and source of hope.

seated on a throne
The imagery of God "seated on a throne" conveys His supreme authority and kingship over all creation. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a throne symbolized power, judgment, and governance. The Hebrew word for "throne" (כִּסֵּא, kisse) reinforces the idea of God's unchallenged rule. This vision reassures Isaiah and the people of Judah that, despite political instability, God's reign is eternal and unshakeable.

high and exalted
The description of the throne as "high and exalted" emphasizes God's transcendence and majesty. The Hebrew words רָם (ram) and נִשָּׂא (nissa) suggest elevation and lifting up, portraying God as far above any earthly power or authority. This imagery invites believers to lift their eyes above their immediate circumstances and recognize the grandeur and holiness of God, inspiring worship and reverence.

and the train of His robe filled the temple
The "train of His robe" symbolizes God's glory and presence. In ancient times, the length of a king's robe was a measure of his status and splendor. The Hebrew word for "filled" (מָלֵא, male) indicates completeness and abundance. The fact that God's robe fills the temple signifies His overwhelming presence and the fullness of His glory. This vision of divine majesty filling the sacred space of the temple serves as a powerful reminder of God's immanence and His desire to dwell among His people.

Above Him stood seraphim
The term "seraphim" is derived from the Hebrew root "saraph," which means "to burn." This suggests a fiery, radiant nature, symbolizing purity and the consuming holiness of God. The seraphim are celestial beings, often associated with the highest order of angels, who serve in the presence of God. Their position "above Him" indicates their role in the heavenly hierarchy, emphasizing their duty to glorify and serve the Almighty. Historically, the seraphim are seen as guardians of God's throne, reflecting His majesty and holiness.

each having six wings
The six wings of the seraphim are symbolic of their divine purpose and function. In ancient Near Eastern iconography, wings often denote swiftness and the ability to transcend earthly limitations. The number six, biblically, can represent completeness in the context of creation, as God created the world in six days. Thus, the six wings signify the seraphim's complete readiness and ability to serve God in His holy presence.

with two wings they covered their faces
Covering their faces is an act of reverence and humility before the holiness of God. Even these exalted beings, who dwell in the presence of the Almighty, shield themselves from His glory, acknowledging His supreme holiness. This gesture reflects the biblical theme that no one can see God and live (Exodus 33:20), underscoring the transcendence and awe-inspiring nature of God.

with two they covered their feet
Covering their feet signifies modesty and respect in the presence of God. In the ancient world, feet were often considered unclean or a symbol of one's earthly journey. By covering their feet, the seraphim demonstrate their awareness of their creatureliness and the need to honor God's holiness. This act parallels Moses removing his sandals before the burning bush (Exodus 3:5), recognizing the sacredness of God's presence.

and with two they were flying
The act of flying represents the seraphim's readiness and swiftness to carry out God's commands. It signifies their active service and perpetual motion in fulfilling God's will. Flying also symbolizes the transcendence of the heavenly realm over the earthly, illustrating the seraphim's role as messengers and ministers of God's divine purposes. This imagery inspires believers to be ever-ready and willing to serve God with zeal and dedication.

And they were calling out to one another
This phrase introduces the scene of heavenly worship, where the seraphim, angelic beings, are engaged in a continuous act of praise. The Hebrew word for "calling out" is "קָרָא" (qara), which implies a loud proclamation or summoning. This reflects the intensity and fervor of their worship, emphasizing the importance of vocal and communal praise in the presence of God. The seraphim's call to one another signifies unity and shared purpose in glorifying God, a model for believers to emulate in their worship practices.

Holy, holy, holy
The repetition of the word "holy" three times is significant. In Hebrew, the word "קָדוֹשׁ" (qadosh) means set apart, sacred, or pure. The thrice-repeated "holy" underscores the absolute and unparalleled holiness of God. This triadic repetition is a Hebrew literary device used to express superlative emphasis, indicating that God's holiness is beyond comparison. It also foreshadows the Trinitarian understanding of God in Christian theology, highlighting the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit's shared essence of holiness.

is the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" translates the Hebrew "יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת" (YHWH Tzevaot), which conveys God's supreme authority over all heavenly and earthly armies. This title emphasizes God's sovereignty, power, and command over all creation. Historically, this would resonate with the Israelites, who often faced military threats and relied on God's protection. It reassures believers of God's omnipotence and His ability to marshal all forces for His divine purposes.

His glory fills the whole earth
The Hebrew word for "glory" is "כָּבוֹד" (kavod), which denotes weightiness, honor, and splendor. The declaration that God's glory "fills the whole earth" speaks to His omnipresence and the manifestation of His divine attributes throughout creation. This phrase invites believers to recognize God's presence in every aspect of the world and to live in a way that reflects His glory. It also serves as a reminder of the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom, where His glory will be fully realized and acknowledged by all.

The doorposts and thresholds shook
This phrase captures the awe-inspiring power and majesty of God's presence. In Hebrew, the word for "shook" is "נָעַר" (na'ar), which conveys a sense of trembling or quaking. This imagery is reminiscent of other biblical instances where God's presence causes the earth to tremble, such as at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18). The shaking of the doorposts and thresholds signifies the divine authority and holiness that permeates the heavenly temple, emphasizing that even the inanimate structures respond to God's glory. This serves as a reminder of the reverence due to God, whose presence commands respect and awe.

at the sound of their voices
The "voices" refer to the seraphim, the angelic beings who are proclaiming God's holiness. The Hebrew word for "voice" is "קוֹל" (qol), which can also mean sound or noise. The seraphim's proclamation is so powerful that it causes the very foundations of the temple to shake. This highlights the significance of their message and the authority with which they speak. It underscores the idea that the worship and declaration of God's holiness are not passive acts but are dynamic and impactful, resonating through the spiritual and physical realms.

and the temple was filled with smoke
The "temple" here refers to the heavenly temple, a representation of God's dwelling place. The filling of the temple with "smoke" is symbolic of God's presence and glory. In Hebrew, the word for smoke is "עָשָׁן" (ashan), which is often associated with divine presence and theophany, as seen in Exodus 19:18, where Mount Sinai is covered with smoke because the Lord descended on it in fire. The smoke signifies the mystery and majesty of God, who is both immanent and transcendent. It serves as a visual representation of God's holiness and the awe that surrounds His presence, reminding believers of the sacredness of approaching God in worship and prayer.

Woe is me
The Hebrew word for "woe" is "אוֹי" (oy), a term expressing deep distress and lamentation. In the context of Isaiah's vision, this exclamation signifies a profound realization of personal inadequacy and sinfulness in the presence of divine holiness. Isaiah's cry is not merely an expression of fear but a recognition of his unworthiness before God. This moment of self-awareness is crucial for any believer, as it marks the beginning of true repentance and transformation.

for I am ruined!
The Hebrew word "נִדְמֵיתִי" (nidmeti) can be translated as "ruined" or "undone." This conveys a sense of being completely overwhelmed or destroyed. Isaiah's encounter with God's holiness reveals the depth of his own sinfulness, leading to a feeling of utter devastation. This acknowledgment of ruin is essential for understanding the gravity of sin and the need for divine grace and redemption.

For I am a man of unclean lips
The phrase "unclean lips" highlights the impurity and sinfulness of Isaiah's speech, which represents the broader condition of his heart and life. In Hebrew culture, the lips were often seen as a reflection of one's inner state. Isaiah's confession underscores the importance of purity in speech and thought, aligning with the biblical principle that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). This recognition of personal sin is a step towards seeking God's cleansing and forgiveness.

and I dwell among a people of unclean lips
Isaiah acknowledges not only his own sinfulness but also the collective sin of his community. This reflects a broader understanding of corporate sin and the influence of societal norms on individual behavior. The prophet's lament points to the pervasive nature of sin and the need for communal repentance and renewal. It serves as a reminder that believers are called to be in the world but not of it, maintaining holiness amidst a fallen society.

for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of Hosts
The vision of "the King, the LORD of Hosts" is a profound encounter with God's majesty and authority. The title "LORD of Hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) emphasizes God's sovereignty over all heavenly and earthly armies. Isaiah's vision of God seated on His throne reveals the ultimate power and holiness of the divine, contrasting starkly with human sinfulness. This encounter with God's glory compels Isaiah to recognize his own inadequacy and the need for divine intervention. It serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of experiencing God's presence, leading to a life of worship and service.

Then one of the seraphim
The term "seraphim" is derived from the Hebrew word "śārāph," which means "burning ones." These celestial beings are depicted as fiery and radiant, symbolizing purity and the consuming holiness of God. In the context of Isaiah's vision, the seraphim serve as attendants to the Lord, emphasizing the majesty and glory of God’s presence. Their role in this passage highlights the divine order and the reverence due to God, as they are positioned to act on His behalf.

flew to me
The action of the seraphim flying to Isaiah signifies a direct and purposeful movement from the divine realm to the human. This movement underscores the immediacy and intentionality of God's intervention in Isaiah's life. It is a reminder of the accessibility of God's grace and the readiness of His servants to minister to those in need of purification and commissioning.

with a live coal
The "live coal" is a symbol of purification and cleansing. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, fire was often associated with purification, as it consumes impurities and refines precious metals. The coal, taken from the altar, represents the holiness and atoning power of God. It is a vivid image of how God purifies and prepares His servants for His work, removing sin and guilt through divine means.

in his hand
The seraphim carrying the coal "in his hand" indicates the careful and deliberate nature of this act. The hand, often a symbol of power and action, here represents the precise and personal nature of God's cleansing work. It is not a distant or impersonal act but one that is intimately connected to the individual, demonstrating God's personal care and attention to Isaiah's spiritual state.

which he had taken with tongs from the altar
The use of "tongs" to take the coal from the altar suggests the sacredness and intensity of the divine fire. The altar, a place of sacrifice and worship, is where atonement is made, and the coal's origin from there signifies its role in purifying Isaiah. This detail emphasizes the holiness of the process and the reverence required when approaching God's presence. It is a powerful reminder of the sacrificial system that pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who cleanses us from sin.

And with it he touched my mouth
The phrase "touched my mouth" is significant in the context of Isaiah's prophetic calling. The Hebrew word for "touched" is נָגַע (naga), which implies a direct and transformative contact. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the mouth symbolizes the instrument of speech and prophecy. By touching Isaiah's mouth, the seraph is preparing him for his divine mission, purifying the very organ that will proclaim God's messages. This act signifies the cleansing and empowerment necessary for Isaiah to speak on behalf of the Holy One of Israel.

and said 'Now that this has touched your lips
The "lips" in Hebrew, שָׂפָה (saphah), are often associated with speech and communication. The emphasis on the lips being touched highlights the purification of Isaiah's words. In the biblical narrative, lips are not just physical but represent the purity and truth of one's speech. The seraph's declaration underscores the transformation that has occurred, indicating that Isaiah's words will now be aligned with divine truth and authority.

your guilt is taken away
The term "guilt" in Hebrew is עָוֹן (avon), which refers to iniquity or moral wrongdoing. The phrase "taken away" is from the Hebrew סוּר (sur), meaning to remove or depart. This signifies a complete removal of Isaiah's moral burden, a divine act of grace. In the conservative Christian perspective, this prefigures the redemptive work of Christ, who takes away the sins of the world. Isaiah's experience is a foreshadowing of the ultimate atonement provided through Jesus, emphasizing God's willingness to forgive and restore.

and your sin atoned for
The word "sin" in Hebrew is חַטָּאָה (chatta'ah), denoting an offense against God's law. "Atoned for" comes from the Hebrew כָּפַר (kaphar), meaning to cover or make reconciliation. This concept is central to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament, where atonement involves covering sin through a substitute. In Isaiah's vision, the atonement is immediate and divine, pointing to the ultimate atonement through Christ's sacrifice. This highlights the theme of God's mercy and the transformative power of divine forgiveness, which cleanses and commissions Isaiah for his prophetic role.

Then I heard the voice of the Lord
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in Isaiah's prophetic calling. The Hebrew word for "heard" is שָׁמַע (shama), which implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. This indicates that Isaiah is not merely a passive listener but is actively engaged with God's message. The "voice of the Lord" signifies divine authority and presence, a theme consistent throughout Scripture where God's voice initiates creation, commands, and calls individuals to His service.

saying
The use of "saying" (אָמַר, amar in Hebrew) introduces the direct speech of God. This is a common biblical narrative technique that emphasizes the importance and immediacy of God's words. It underscores the personal nature of God's communication with His prophets, highlighting that God speaks directly and clearly to those He calls.

“Whom shall I send?
This rhetorical question reflects God's sovereign initiative in the mission. The Hebrew word for "send" is שָׁלַח (shalach), which conveys the idea of dispatching someone with a purpose. It is a divine invitation for participation in God's redemptive plan. The question implies that God is seeking willing participants, emphasizing human agency and responsibility in responding to God's call.

Who will go for Us?”
The plural "Us" is intriguing and has been interpreted in various ways. Some see it as a reference to the Trinity, while others view it as a majestic plural or a heavenly council. Regardless, it indicates a collaborative divine mission. The word "go" (יָלַךְ, yalak in Hebrew) suggests movement and action, calling for a proactive response to God's mission.

And I said
Isaiah's response is immediate and personal. The Hebrew word for "said" (אָמַר, amar) is the same as used earlier, indicating a dialogue between God and Isaiah. This reflects the intimate relationship between the prophet and God, where Isaiah is not only a recipient of God's message but an active participant in the conversation.

“Here am I
This phrase, הִנְנִי (hineni in Hebrew), is a declaration of readiness and availability. It is a common biblical response to divine calls, seen in figures like Abraham and Moses. It signifies total surrender and willingness to serve God without reservation, embodying the ideal response to divine calling.

Send me!”
Isaiah's enthusiastic response, "Send me," echoes his willingness to be God's messenger. The repetition of the word "send" (שָׁלַח, shalach) reinforces the theme of mission and purpose. Isaiah's readiness to be sent highlights the ideal attitude of a servant of God—eager to fulfill God's will and participate in His divine plan. This response serves as an inspirational model for believers, encouraging them to be open and responsive to God's call in their own lives.

He replied
This phrase indicates a direct response from God to Isaiah. The Hebrew root here is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say or declare. This highlights the authority and direct communication from God, emphasizing the divine origin of the message. In the context of Isaiah's vision, it underscores the solemnity and seriousness of the prophetic mission Isaiah is being commissioned for.

Go and tell this people
The command "Go" (Hebrew: "הָלַךְ" - halak) signifies a mission or a journey, often used in the context of divine commissioning. "This people" refers specifically to the Israelites, indicating a personal and direct message to God's chosen nation. Historically, this reflects the period of spiritual decline in Israel, where the people had turned away from God, necessitating a prophetic intervention.

Be ever hearing, but never understanding
The phrase "ever hearing" (Hebrew: "שָׁמַע" - shama) implies a continuous action of listening. However, "never understanding" (Hebrew: "בִּין" - bin) suggests a failure to comprehend or discern. This dichotomy highlights the spiritual dullness and obstinacy of the people. It serves as a warning about the consequences of persistent disobedience and the hardening of hearts against divine truth.

Be ever seeing, but never perceiving
Similar to the previous phrase, "ever seeing" (Hebrew: "רָאָה" - ra'ah) indicates a constant exposure to God's works and messages. Yet, "never perceiving" (Hebrew: "יָדַע" - yada) points to a lack of insight or recognition. This reflects a spiritual blindness, where despite witnessing God's actions, the people fail to grasp their significance. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of spiritual apathy and the importance of seeking true understanding.

Make the hearts of this people calloused
The Hebrew word for "calloused" is "שָׁמֵן" (shamen), which can also mean fat or insensitive. In the context of Isaiah, this phrase indicates a spiritual insensitivity or dullness. Historically, this reflects the state of Israel at the time, where despite numerous warnings and signs from God, the people remained unresponsive to His call. This callousness is not just a physical hardening but a deep spiritual condition where the heart becomes resistant to divine truth. Theologically, it serves as a warning against the dangers of persistent disobedience and the gradual hardening that can occur when one continually rejects God's word.

deafen their ears and close their eyes
The imagery of deaf ears and closed eyes is a powerful metaphor for spiritual blindness and deafness. The Hebrew words used here, "אָזַן" (azan) for ears and "עָצַם" (atsam) for eyes, suggest a deliberate shutting out of God's message. This is not merely a passive state but an active choice to ignore divine revelation. In the broader scriptural context, this reflects a recurring theme where God's people, despite having the law and the prophets, choose to ignore His guidance. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from God’s truth.

Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears
This phrase suggests the potential for repentance and understanding if the people were to open their eyes and ears. The Hebrew verbs "רָאָה" (ra'ah) for see and "שָׁמַע" (shama) for hear imply a deep, perceptive understanding that goes beyond mere physical sight and sound. Historically, this reflects the hope that remains for Israel if they choose to return to God. Theologically, it underscores the idea that God desires repentance and restoration, but it requires a willingness to perceive and respond to His truth.

understand with their hearts
The heart, or "לֵב" (lev) in Hebrew, is often seen as the center of intellect and emotion in biblical literature. To "understand with their hearts" implies a holistic comprehension that involves both mind and spirit. This understanding is not just intellectual but transformative, leading to a change in behavior and attitude. In the context of Isaiah, it highlights the potential for renewal and transformation if the people choose to genuinely engage with God's message.

and turn and be healed
The Hebrew word for "turn" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which is often used in the context of repentance, meaning to return or to turn back. "Healed" comes from the Hebrew "רָפָא" (rapha), indicating restoration and wholeness. This phrase encapsulates the hope and promise of redemption that is available if the people choose to repent. It reflects the consistent biblical theme that God is always ready to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him. Historically, it points to the cycles of sin and redemption seen throughout Israel's history, and theologically, it emphasizes God's mercy and the possibility of spiritual renewal.

Then I asked
The phrase "Then I asked" indicates a moment of inquiry and reflection by the prophet Isaiah. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say or speak. This suggests a direct and personal communication with God, highlighting the intimate relationship between the prophet and the Divine. Isaiah's question reflects a deep concern for the fate of his people and the duration of their impending judgment.

For how long, Lord?
reveals Isaiah's earnest desire to understand the extent of the judgment that has been pronounced. The Hebrew word for "how long" is "עַד־מָתַי" (ad-matay), which conveys a sense of duration and longing for resolution. This question is not just about time but also about hope and restoration. Isaiah's use of "Lord" (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai) acknowledges God's sovereignty and authority over the situation, recognizing that only God knows the appointed times and seasons.

And He replied
signifies God's direct response to Isaiah's question. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) is used again, emphasizing the clarity and authority of God's answer. This response is not just informative but also carries a weight of divine decree, underscoring the seriousness of the message.

Until the cities lie in ruins without inhabitant
paints a vivid picture of complete desolation. The Hebrew word for "ruins" is "שָׁמָה" (shamah), which implies a state of utter devastation. This phrase indicates the totality of the judgment, where once-thriving cities become empty and lifeless. The absence of inhabitants highlights the severity of the consequences of the people's disobedience and the fulfillment of God's righteous judgment.

until the houses are left unoccupied
further emphasizes the theme of abandonment and desolation. The Hebrew word "בָּתִּים" (batim) refers to houses or dwellings, and their being "left unoccupied" suggests a complete evacuation or exile. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting loss of community and security.

and the land is desolate and ravaged
completes the picture of devastation. The Hebrew word for "desolate" is "שְׁמָמָה" (shemamah), which conveys a sense of barrenness and emptiness. "Ravaged" (שָׁמֵם, shamem) implies destruction and ruin. This phrase underscores the totality of the judgment, affecting not just the people and their homes but the very land itself. It serves as a sobering reminder of the impact of sin and the need for repentance and restoration.

until the LORD
The phrase "until the LORD" signifies a divine timeline and purpose. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and faithfulness. This indicates that the events described are under God's control and are part of His divine plan. Historically, this reflects the period of judgment and exile that God allowed to purify and eventually restore His people.

has driven men far away
The phrase "has driven men far away" uses the Hebrew verb "rachaq," which means to remove or distance. This reflects the historical context of the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were physically removed from their land. Spiritually, it symbolizes a separation from God's presence due to sin. Theologically, it serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience but also hints at the hope of eventual return and restoration.

and the land
The term "and the land" refers to the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word "eretz" is used, which can mean land, earth, or territory. This land was a gift from God to His people, symbolizing His promise and blessing. The mention of the land being affected underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment, affecting both people and their inheritance.

is utterly forsaken
The phrase "is utterly forsaken" uses the Hebrew word "shammah," meaning desolate or abandoned. This conveys the complete desolation that would come upon the land as a result of the people's unfaithfulness. Historically, this was fulfilled in the destruction and desolation of Jerusalem and the temple. Spiritually, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, yet it also sets the stage for the hope of renewal and redemption that follows in the prophetic narrative.

And though a tenth remains in the land
This phrase suggests a remnant, a concept frequently encountered in the prophetic books of the Bible. The Hebrew word for "tenth" is "עֲשִׂירִיָּה" (asiriyah), which implies a small, surviving portion. Historically, the idea of a remnant is significant in the context of Israel's history, where despite judgment and exile, God promises that a faithful group will endure. This remnant is a symbol of hope and continuity, reflecting God's mercy and covenant faithfulness.

it will again be laid waste
The Hebrew root for "laid waste" is "שָׁוָה" (shavah), which conveys destruction or desolation. This indicates that even the remnant will face further trials and purification. In the historical context, this can be seen as a reference to the repeated invasions and hardships faced by Israel. Spiritually, it underscores the theme of judgment leading to purification, a process necessary for the ultimate restoration and renewal of God's people.

But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when felled
The terebinth and oak are strong, resilient trees, often used in Scripture to symbolize endurance and longevity. The Hebrew word for "stumps" is "מַצֶּבֶת" (matzevet), which refers to what remains after a tree is cut down. This imagery suggests that although the nation will be cut down, like these trees, it will not be utterly destroyed. The stump represents the potential for new growth, a powerful metaphor for hope and renewal.

so the holy seed will be a stump in the land
The "holy seed" refers to the faithful remnant that will survive the judgment. The Hebrew word for "seed" is "זֶרַע" (zera), which often denotes offspring or descendants. This seed is "holy," set apart by God for His purposes. The imagery of a stump in the land signifies that from this remnant, new life will emerge. This is a prophetic foreshadowing of the coming of the Messiah, who would arise from the line of David, bringing salvation and restoration not only to Israel but to all nations. This verse, therefore, encapsulates the themes of judgment, hope, and redemption, central to the message of Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative.