The concept of the "glowing coal" is a significant symbol found within the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Isaiah. This imagery is deeply rooted in the themes of purification, atonement, and divine commissioning.

Biblical Reference: Isaiah 6:6-7

The primary biblical reference to the glowing coal is found in Isaiah 6:6-7 : "Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. And with it he touched my mouth and said: 'Now that this has touched your lips, your iniquity is removed and your sin is atoned for.'"

Context and Significance

In Isaiah 6, the prophet Isaiah receives a vision of the Lord seated on a high and exalted throne, surrounded by seraphim. This vision occurs in the year that King Uzziah died, marking a time of transition and uncertainty for the nation of Judah. Isaiah's encounter with the divine presence highlights his own unworthiness and the sinfulness of the people, as he exclaims, "Woe to me! ... I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell among a people of unclean lips" (Isaiah 6:5).

The glowing coal, taken from the altar by a seraph, serves as a divine instrument of purification. The altar, likely representing the altar of incense in the heavenly temple, signifies the place of sacrifice and atonement. The coal's contact with Isaiah's lips symbolizes the removal of his iniquity and the atonement for his sin, preparing him for his prophetic mission.

Theological Implications

The glowing coal represents God's holiness and the transformative power of His grace. It underscores the necessity of purification before one can stand in the presence of God or undertake His work. This act of cleansing is not initiated by Isaiah but is a divine act of grace, emphasizing that atonement and purification are gifts from God.

The imagery of the glowing coal also prefigures the New Testament understanding of atonement through Christ. Just as the coal cleanses Isaiah, the sacrifice of Jesus purifies believers, enabling them to serve God. The coal's role in Isaiah's commissioning parallels the cleansing and empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians.

Symbolism in Worship and Liturgy

In Christian liturgical traditions, the glowing coal can be seen as a symbol of the Holy Spirit's purifying fire. It serves as a reminder of the need for personal holiness and the transformative power of God's presence. The imagery of fire and coal is often associated with the refining and purifying work of God in the believer's life.

Conclusion

The glowing coal in Isaiah's vision is a profound symbol of God's holiness, grace, and the necessity of purification for service. It highlights the transformative encounter between the divine and the human, preparing Isaiah for his prophetic mission and offering a foreshadowing of the ultimate atonement through Christ.