Yeshaya Perek 52

Yeshaya Perek 52 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya tells Jerusalem to “get up and get dressed,” because invaders will no longer be permitted to enter. Shake off the dust, get up off the ground and sit on your throne. Take off your bonds - you were sold as slaves but you’re not being redeemed for money; you repented and returned to G-d. G-d says that Egypt oppressed the Jews, but at least they hosted the Jews prior to that and felt “owed.” Not the case with Assyiria. The Jews were exiled for their sins, but they were abused and G-d’s Name was blasphemed. Now that He redeems them, His Name will be recognized. Yesha’ya praises the footsteps of the messenger who ascends the mountain to announce the salvation. The watchmen of the cities will sing when they see G-d restore the Jews to Jerusalem. The ruins that were left from the exile will rejoice in Jerusalem’s restoration. G-d has revealed His might - all the nations will see His salvation. Leave the places of exile. Purify yourselves to carry the vessels of the Temple. You won’t hurry as you did when you left Egypt, because you won’t fear anyone’s attack; G-d is guarding your backs. Israel will prosper and be exalted. Many people wondered about how beat down the Jews were; now kings will shut up when they see the Jews because it’s just so unbelievable!

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Yeshaya Perek 51

Yeshaya Perek 51 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

esha’ya tells the righteous to listen to him: Look at the rock from which you were cut and the hole from which you were dug - referring to Abraham and Sarah. Abraham was a lone person when G-d called him and G-d blessed him to become multitudes. G-d will console Israel, turning wasteland into gardens. Rejoicing will be found in the land. Words of Torah will shine forth and G-d’s judgment will be a light to nations; they will have rest from war. G-d’s righteousness is near; salvation is on the way. G-d will chastise the nations and they will rely on Him. Heaven and Earth may eventually pass away, but G-d’s righteousness will last forever. So listen to G-d and don’t worry about what people may say. Their criticisms are worthless; they will be consumed like a worm does to wool. G-d tells Yesha’ya that He is the One Who consoles. Why fear a mortal man who withers like grass? People forget G-d, Who created the universe, and they worry about humans, who are here today and gone tomorrow. Your oppressor is mortal; he has no power to harm you. It is G-d who moves the sea and who put words of Torah in our mouths. He sheltered us and preserved us to be like the stars of Heaven and the sands of the shore. Awaken, Jerusalem! You have finished drinking from the cup of G-d’s punishment. The Jews in exile were directionless. How will Jerusalem be consoled? Her children have fainted in the streets. Listen, you afflicted people, who are “drunk” from your troubles. G-d says that we will no longer drink from the cup of punishment - He will pass it to those who oppressed us.

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Yeshaya Perek 50

Yeshaya Perek 50 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d says that, despite their sins, He has not “divorced” the Jewish people. (This seems to contradict Jeremiah 3:8, which says that He did. However, Jeremiah was prophesying to the Ten Tribes of the Northern Kingdom - the now “lost” Tribes - while Yesha’ya was speaking to the kingdom of Judah.) Why does G-d call for us to return, but no one answers? Is the exile so long that you think He is unable to save you? Whenever He wishes, G-d could dry up the sea, as He did the Red Sea when the Jews left Egypt, or stop a river from flowing, as He did the Jordan when the Jews entered Israel. He dresses the Heavens with darkness and covers them with sackcloth. G-d gave Yesha’ya the ability to teach the weary the word of G-d. G-d rouses Yesha’ya every day, energizing him to hear His teachings. G-d appointed Yesha’ya His prophet and Yesha’ya accepted the job without any hesitation. He did his appointed task, despite the insults and abuse his detractors would heap upon him. G-d gave him the strength to carry on with his task. Soon, Yesha’ya says, he will be vindicated - let those who wish to debate him step forward! G-d will help him and his opponents will wear out like moth-eaten clothes. Who fears G-d and heeds the words of His prophets in darkness? Let such a person rely on G-d! But those who do not listen ignite the fire of G-d’s anger and are thereby burned accordingly. This is payback and these people will have no strength before their enemies.

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Yeshaya Perek 49

Yeshaya Perek 49 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya calls to various nations to pay heed. Yesha’ya is like an arrow in G-d’s arsenal against evil. Yesha’ya is as precious to G-d as the entire nation of Israel, in Whom He takes pride. Now, G-d has made Yesha’ya His messenger to bring Israel back to Him in repentance. Israel will return to G-d and Yesha’ya will be honored in G-d’s eyes. G-d spoke about Israel, who are despised among nations. Ultimately, kings will rise before them and princes will bow down because they are the chose people of G-d. G-d says that He answered and saved Israel, and He will watch them and make them an eternal people, rebuilding their desolate land. The exiles will be released from their captivity; on their return, they will graze along the road, not hungry, nor thirsty, nor suffering from the heat, because G-d will lead them by springs of water. Mountains will be leveled to smooth roads and over- grown highways will be cleared. The exiles will return from far and wide. Heaven and Earth will rejoice in song that G-d has had mercy on His people.

The land weeps that G-d has “forgotten” her, but that would be like a mother just forgetting her baby. And even though there may be such neglectful mothers, G-d still won’t overlook the land. It’s as if the land of Israel were engraved on G-d’s “hands” - that’s how unforgettable the land is to Him. The exiles are anxious to return. The wicked who cause the exile will depart. Look up and see the exiles returning; they are like a bride’s jewelry to the land. Those places that had been destroyed and emptied will be crowded with residents. When the land sees Jerusalem so overflowing with activity, she will ask where they all came from, seeing how she was all alone for so long. G-d will reply that He will raise His hand to the nations, signaling the return; the nations will assist with the return, affording Israel great honor in the process. Kings and queens will be like nurses and nannies to you. They will bow down and you will know that it is G-d Who has caused this.

G-d says that He can take captives from the mightiest rulers and He will rescue us. Those who oppress Israel will be so distressed that they will become physically ill. Everyone will know that it is G-d Who has saved Israel.

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Yeshaya Perek 48

Yeshaya Perek 48 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya speaks to the Tribes of Judah and Benjamin, who are fated to be exiled to Babylonia. They say they rely on G-d, but they are not truthful about it. They are called by the name of Jerusalem, the Holy City, and they express faith in G-d, but deep inside, they have doubts. G-d foretold earlier events - the redemption from Egypt and the salvation from Assyria in the time of Hizkiya - and they happened. But the Jewish people is a stubborn nation. G-d foretold these things so they would know that He did it and not some other power. Just as these past things came true as foretold, so will future events, such as those involving Cyrus. When G-d saved the Jewish people in Egypt, He knew they would ultimately sin. But G- d puts off His anger for them. He purifies the people in a “furnace of affliction,” through exile and poverty. G-d does this - punishing the Jews rather than destroying them outright - so that His Name will not be profaned. G-d established the Heavens and Earth, causing them to interact with one another. Because G-d loves the Jewish people, He will carry out His mission in Babylonia, to restore the nation through Cyrus. G-d called Abraham from the east and made him successful. The Torah was not given in secret. Now G-d sends Yesha’ya as His messenger. G-d teaches us for our own benefit; He leads us the way we should go. If the Jews would but obey the Torah, their peace would flow as constantly as a river and their merits would be as powerful as the crashing waves. Your descendants would be as plentiful as the sand of the beach and the nation would never be destroyed. Return from Babylonia, singing in joy that G-d has redeemed His nation. They will not thirst when they return through the desert; G-d will care for their needs as He did when they left Egypt. G-d says: There is no peace for the wicked (Nebuchadnezzar and his successors.)

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Yeshaya Perek 47

Yeshaya Perek 47 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya says that the people of Babylonia should “sit on the ground” rather than on a throne. (This means that they are going from being conquerors to being the conquered.) They will no longer enjoy pleasures/delicacies. Instead, they will be engaged in hard labor, losing their dignity in the process. The whole world will witness their shame. G-d will pay them back for their treatment of Israel and He doesn’t need anyone’s permission to do so. G-d tells the Chaldean people to sit quietly in the darkness, so that people won’t see them in their punished state. They will no longer enjoy their prestigious status among nations. When G-d became angry with Israel over their sins, He allowed them to be conquered. The conquerors acted extra cruelly however; they especially oppressed the elderly, who were unable to bear the hard labor. They thought there would never be any payback for their deeds, but they were wrong. Now, they are like a widow. They will lose citizens and their king in one stroke. They will also be punished for their sorcerous ways. They performed their magic in secret, thinking no one could see them. They were perverted by these practices and they considered themselves wise and powerful. Now punishment is coming and they are powerless to prevent it. Go ahead, try your sorcery and see if that helps. Let the astrologers, fortune tellers and necromancers do their best. They’re like straw in the fire - they can’t even save themselves! Nothing remains from them because they’ve been utterly consumed. You supported these magicians, but they’re no good to you in this time of need.

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Yeshaya Perek 46

Yeshaya Perek 46 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Bel and Nevo, the idols of Babylonia, metaphorically soil themselves. They are like animals that “do their busi- ness” anywhere. They couldn’t get the job done and they have gone into captivity. G-d tells Israel to listen to Him: He carries them from cradle to grave. G-d “gets the job done,” unlike those idols. Who is like G-d? People take silver and gold and turn them into an idol to worship. They carry it from place to place because it has no power to move. They call out to it, but it has no power to answer and it cannot save them. Remember this and take it to heart: G-d is the only One, from beginning to end. His will alone will be done. He called Abraham (compared here to an eagle) from the East and He calls Cyrus. What He says, He will do. So, listen to G-d; salvation is en route and will arrive in its due time.

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Yeshaya Perek 45

Yeshaya Perek 45 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d now speaks to Cyrus, who is called an anointed one. G-d gave Cyrus the ability to flatten other nations. The gates of Babylonia will open wide before him. G-d will go before Cyrus, straightening the path that lies ahead of him, breaking copper doors and iron bars. G-d will give Cyrus the hidden treasures of Babylonia so that Cyrus will know that it is G-d Who is directing him. For the sake of Israel, G-d calls to Cyrus, whom He knows, even though Cyrus has not yet been born. G-d will strengthen him, even though Cyrus does not yet know Who He is. People will know from one end of the world to the other that G-d is the only One. He creates light and darkness, good and evil, (not like the Zoroastrian belief in two opposing gods.) The skies will rain righteousness and salvation will grow from the ground; this is from G-d. A person who questions G-d’s ways is like a lump of clay that questions the potter about how he makes a jug. G-d says that we can ask Him about the signs we see in the Heavens and on Earth, but not to question Him about Israel; He has already prepared salvation for them. G-d made Earth and planted man upon it. He aroused Cyrus to do His will; Cyrus will rebuild Jerusalem and return the exiles, not for ransom, but to do G-d’s will.

The wealth of Egypt and other nations will be given to Israel. These nations will come before you in chains and say that only in Israel is there a true G-d Who has power to save. They will be ashamed, including the master craftsmen of idols. Israel will have eternal salvation and they will never be disgraced. G-d tells the survivors of the nations to assemble and to bring their idols. Go ahead and confer - see if any of their idols predicted the fates of Assyria and Babylonia. Only G-d is a living G-d; there is no other. Turn to Him and be saved. G-d swore by Himself and righteousness came from Him, not to be retracted, to accept all who return to Him. Every person in the world will ultimately recognize only G-d. Even so, Israel will maintain their unique relation- ship with G-d. Those who were G-d’s “opponents” will be ashamed of it, while Israel will “shep nachas” (feel pride) for recognizing G-d before it was universal among the nations.

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Yeshaya Perek 44

Yeshaya Perek 44 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d tells Israel to listen: the One Who made us and formed us in utero, He will save us. He will pour His spirit upon us like water on the thirsty. The Jews will “sprout” from it like willows by the water. They will identify themselves as being for G-d and part of Israel. (According to Rashi, the various names they use to describe themselves refer to varying levels of righteousness.) G-d is the first and the last; beside Him there is no other. Who besides G-d can lay out the path of future events? Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for G-d told the Jewish people at Sinai that we are His witnesses and there is no power except that given by Him. Idol makers come to nothing. The idols are a testimony against their worshippers, who pray to lifeless lumps. Israel is told to remember this, for they are G-d’s servants. He made them a nation to Him, so they must re- member Him, even when the other nations forget. He erased Israel’s sins like a cloud dispersing, so they should return to Him. The Heavens and Earth will sing that G-d has done this. The mountains and forests will sing that G-d has re- deemed Israel. G-d alone made the universe, spreading out the Heavens and the Earth. He thwarts the predic- tions of astrologers and necromancers, revealing their “wisdom” as nonsense. On the other hand, G-d fulfills what He said to His servant (Moses) and His messengers (the prophets Chagai, Zechariah and Malachi). G-d says that Jerusalem and the other cities of Judah will be restored to their former glory. He dries up Babylonia’s wealth and power (compared to rivers). He calls Cyrus, the future Persian King, to do His will in rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple.

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Yeshaya Perek 43

Yeshaya Perek 43 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Now G-d says to Israel not to fear; He is the one Who redeemed them and they are His. When they pass through waters, they will not drown and when they pass through fire, they will not be burned. G-d is the Savior of Israel, allowing Assyria to overrun other nations in their place. Again G-d says not to fear. He will gather the exiles from the four corners of the Earth. The people were spiritually “blind” and “deaf” when they left Egypt, too, but they became able to “see” and “hear.” If all the nations of the world were gathered together, which of their prophets could foretell the future? Let them present their case so we can see whether it is true. The Jewish people are G-d’s witnesses, testifying to the fact that He alone is G-d; there was none before Him and there will be none after Him. Besides Him, there is no Savior. Since Cre- ation, He is G-d, and the fate of the world is His call alone. Nobody can thwart His will. G-d says that because of our sins, He exiled Israel to Babylonia, but He will disable the ships. He made a path in the sea when the Jews left Egypt, demolishing Pharaoh’s army in the process. But don’t focus on the troubles of the past; soon, we will have the future redemption to occupy our thoughts. G-d will do something new; He will make a road in the desert and rivers in the wilderness. The animals of the wastelands will honor G-d for turning desolation into a place of settlements for the sake of His people. But Israel did not call upon G-d. Instead, they turned to idols. They didn’t sacrifice to G-d, but to false gods. G-d made it easy to serve Him - a handful of meal, a pinch of frankincense - but they still ignored Him. Instead, they tired Him with their sins. But G-d will erase those sins for His sake and will not recall them. G-d encourages the Jewish people to remind Him of the reward earned by the Forefathers.

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Yeshaya Perek 42

Yeshaya Perek 42 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d says: My servant Israel is not like the other nations. Israel is My chosen one, upon whom I have placed My spirit. They will serve as an example to the nations. They will neither weaken nor tire before establishing justice in the land. This is the word of G-d, Who created Heaven and Earth and Who gave life to humanity. He called Yesha’ya and will strengthen him in his mission; G-d made him a light to the nations. People have become spiritually “blind,” like prisoners sitting in the darkness of a prison. G-d is the only One; His praise is not to be shared with idols. The promises He made to Abraham came true, now G-d shares more promises of the future exile and redemption. Sing a new song to G-d from the ends of the Earth. The desert and cities will raise their voices to Him. Deserts now occupied by tents will become permanent settlements and the deceased, who are currently under the ground, will praise G-d (an allusion to the revival of the dead). G-d will go forth to redeem Israel like a mighty warrior, overpowering Babylonia. For a long time, G-d restrained Himself; no more. He will destroy mighty kings and rulers (compared to mountains and hills) and all their followers (compared to the grass that grows on these mountains and hills).

G-d will lead those who had been spiritually “blind” on a new path, making the darkness into light and straight- ening the crooked road. Those who worship idols will be ashamed. Those who were “deaf” to G-d’s word will listen and those who were “blind” will see. The people will claim that it is G-d’s prophet who is blind and deaf. There is much to see and hear, if people would only be receptive to it! G- d wants us to be receptive for the sake of His righteousness; He increases Torah and magnifies it. The people have been robbed and plundered; they have been hiding in dungeons, with nobody coming to save them. Who will now hear the promise of future redemption? Who gave Israel over to their enemies? It was G-d, because we refused to listen to His Torah. He poured out His anger; it burned all around them, but they refused to listen.

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Yeshaya Perek 41

Yeshaya Perek 41 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d now tells the nations to be silent in order to hear His words. After that, they may approach and speak if they wish to appeal their judgments. G-d was the One Who sent Abraham, who preached righteousness, from the East. Abraham confronted the four kings (in Genesis 14) and G-d caused Abraham to rule over them. Their weapons were ineffective against him. G-d did all this for him; He was the first to act with Adam and is also the last, with us in latter days. The nations will see the deeds of G-d and shake with fear. They will gather together to make war, encouraging one another with faith in their idols. Israel, however, are the descendants of Abraham, who loved G-d. G-d took Israel from the other nations to serve Him. Israel shall not be afraid because G-d is with them. He encourages, strengthens and supports Israel. Those who gather against Israel will be thwarted. Go look for them, but you won’t find them, because they’ll be reduced to nothing. Yesha’ya tells us that G-d metaphorically holds Israel’s hand, telling us not to fear. He has always helped us. He has made us like a new, sharpened tool; we will raze mountains (referring to mighty rulers). We will crush them fine and they will blow away in the wind. We will rejoice in G-d. The “poor” seek “water” and don’t find it. G-d will answer them. He will open rivers of Torah in a spiritual desert, causing all kinds of “trees” to grow. (Rashi says the trees represent wisdom, goodness and peace.) The nations will see all this and they will understand that it was G-d Who did it. They will be invited to come and present their case. Their false prophets will speak their words and we’ll see how right they are. They’re nothing; they only mislead people. G-d motivates rulers, like Cyrus of Babylonia who rebuilt Jerusalem. He will trample princes underfoot. What “prophet” of Baal ever gave a true prophecy? Not one. Cyrus will start the redemption and Chagai and Zechariah will encourage Darius to build up Jerusalem. No prophet of Baal will ever give a true prophecy.

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Yeshaya Perek 40

Yeshaya Perek 40 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

This chapter is the famous “Nachamu,” Often translated as “be comforted, My people,” Rashi informs us that such is not really the case. Grammatically, G-d is speaking to the prophets and telling them, “comfort My people.” This is a prophecy for Messianic times, or for the return following the Babylonian exile. “Speak to the heart of Jerusalem,” G-d says, “because her punishment is over. She has paid for her sins and then some!” A voice calls out that there is a clear path in the desert, by which the exiles may return. The mountains and valleys will be as if smoothed out in order to make travel easier. People are like grass which ultimately cut and dries up, but the word of G-d endures forever. Ascend to Jerusalem and call out to the nation “Behold your G-d!” G-d comes with a strong hand and He’s bringing reward for the righteous with Him. G-d is like a shep- herd, caring for His flock and carrying the lambs. He measured out the waters, the Heavens and the earth; He put His word in the mouths of the prophets. If He can do all that, He can surely keep this promise! All the nations are like a single drop that falls from a bucket, like dust in the wind. All the forests of Lebanon are not enough for the fire on G-d’s altar and all the animals are not enough for His sacrifices. What can be compared to G-d? G-d sits above the world and people are like insects before Him. He stretches out the Heavens like a canopy over us. He reduces the haughty to nothing, as if they were never planted or sown. They’re like a tree whose trunk never took root; He can just blow them down. They’re blown away like straw in a storm. To whom will one compare G-d? Don’t think that G-d is unaware or that He ignores the reward of the righteous. G-d is everlasting and untiring - there’s simply no way we limited beings can understand His ways. He gives strength to the weary. Those who put their faith in G-d will have renewed vigor, as eagles’ wings. They will walk and run back to the land without tiring.

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Yeshaya Perek 39

Yeshaya Perek 39 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

When he heard that Hizki’ya had been ill and recovered, the king of Babylonia sent messengers with a gift to him. Hizki’ya was excited to have these guests and he gave them the “grand tour” - his treasury, the palace, even the Temple. He showed them all the wealth of his kingdom. Yesha’ya went to Hizki’ya and asked, “What was that all about?” Hizki’ya replied, “I had some very important guests from Babylonia - I showed them everything!” His response was little too proud. He should have taken the opportunity to praise G-d to his guests, rather than to show off. Yesha’ya said, “All the stuff you showed them will be carried off by Babylonia, as will your sons, who will be officers in the court of the king of Babylonia.” (Rashi says this refers to Chananya, Mishael and Azariah, also known as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the Book of Daniel.) Hizki’ya acknowledged that G-d’s word is just, and he was relieved to hear that this would not come to pass in his lifetime.

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Yeshaya Perek 38

Yeshaya Perek 38 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

This chapter parallels II Kings chapter 20. King Hizki’ya became ill and Yesha’ya went to visit him. Yesha’ya told Hizki’ya to get his affairs in order, be- cause he was going to die. Hizki’ya turned to wall and prayed and cried. G-d told Yesha’ya to return to the king and let him know that his prayers were answered; G-d has granted him another 15 years. Furthermore, He would save the city from the onslaught of the Assyrian army. (This incident occurred before the plague wiped out the Assyrian army, as described in the previous chapter.) As a sign, the shadow cast by the sun went back ten steps. (Compare the description of this event with that in Kings.) After his recovery, Hizki’ya wrote a psalm of thanks. In it, he said that he had despaired that he was going to die, missing out on the rest of his years. No longer would he be able to serve G-d on Earth, as he would be in the Next World, separated from his people. The more he strengthened himself, the weaker he would become. Hizki’ya moaned in his illness like the sound of a bird, praying to G-d to “steal” him from the hand of death - and He did! As thanks to G-d, Hizki’ya’s psalms would be sung in the Temple for the rest of his life. Yesha’ya took a cake of figs and pressed it on Hizki’ya’s boil, healing it. From this, Hizki’ya knew he would be healed and would be able to continue to serve G-d.

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Yeshaya Perek 37

Yeshaya Perek 37 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Hizki’ya’s officers reported Ravshakeh’s message to the king, who likewise tore his clothes upon hearing the blasphemy. He sent for Yesha’ya, saying that the position of the nation is like that of a woman in hard labor. He asked Yesha’ya to pray to G-d for Jerusalem, as the other cities had already been captured. Yesha’ya replied that G-d says not to worry; He will cause Sanheriv to fall by the sword in his own land. Sanheriv was waging war in a place called Livna, when he received word that Cush (Ethiopia) was attacking Assyria. Sanheriv left temporarily to deal with theis threat, but he sent letters to Hizki’ya saying, “Don’t think I’m done with you. The gods of other nations didn’t save them and yours won’t save you!” Hizki’ya took the letters to the Temple and spread them out and prayed. He asked G-d to see the blasphemies that Sanheriv had written. “Yes,” Hizki’ya said, “Assyria has invaded the other lands and burned their idols, but they’re not really ‘gods.’ Please save us so that the world may see that You alone are G-d.” .” Yesha’ya sent word to Hizki’ya that G-d said the following: “The people of Jerusalem laugh at Sanheriv, who thinks he will conquer them. He has blasphemed and he sent Ravshakeh to blaspheme, thinking that he could conquer the Temple.” Yesha’ya then addresses the prophecy to the king of Assyria. “Don’t you, Sanheriv, know what G-d does? You’re not the strong one, G-d is...” Yesha’ya then gave Hizki’ya a sign: Even though the Assyrian army had destroyed the vegetation that Jerusalem relied upon for food, they would have enough to eat just from that which grew wild. The rest of the country may have been overrun, but those in Jerusalem, who remained true to G-d, will remain. Assyria will not enter, nor mount a siege against the city; G-d will protect it for His own sake and for the righteous King David. While the army of Assyria slept, a plague struck them. 185,000 died - only Sanheriv, his two sons, and Nebuchadnezzar survived. Sanheriv returned to the city of Ninveh. While he was serving his idol, two of his sons assassinated him. They ran away, leaving another son to reign in his place.

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Yeshaya Perek 36

Yeshaya Perek 36 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

In the fourteenth year of King Hizki’ya’s reign, Sanheriv, king of Assyria, attacked the cities of Judah. He sent messengers to Hizki’ya, who called to him. Elyakim, Shevna and Yoah, three members of Hizki’ya’s court, came out to speak with them. Ravshakeh, the representative of Assyria (who was an apostate Jew) said to them, “You’ve relied on Egypt for aid, but they’ve done more harm to you than good! And if you say you rely on G-d, your king has removed the private altars to Him!” “my king will give you 2,000 horses if you have enough riders to put on them! How can you look down on the lowest officer of Assyria, who commands more men than your entire force? Do you think Assyria is destroying this land against G-d’s will? G-d sent us!” Hizki’ya’s men asked Ravshakeh to speak in Aramaic rather than Hebrew, so that the passers-by shouldn’t understand their conversation. Ravshakeh refused. Ravshakeh then called out to all the people around them, “Don’t let Hizki’ya fool you! The king of Assyria will just move you to another land, but it will be at least as good as this one! Hizki’ya says that G-d will save you, but the ‘gods’ of the other nations couldn’t save them!” The officers of Hizki’ya’s court did not reply because they had orders not to answer him. They returned to Hizki’ya - with torn garments, because Ravshakeh had blasphemed against G-d - and told the king what the Assyrian delegate had said.

Summary provided by Rabbi Jack Abramowitz of the Orthodox Union

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Yeshaya Perek 35

Yeshaya Perek 35 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Jerusalem will rejoice over the downfall of Edom (described in the previous chapter). It will bloom like a flower, singing because of the glory of the Temple and the beauty G-d has given them. Yesha’ya encourages the Jews to strengthen others. Tell those frightened by the troubles preceding the salvation to be brave because G-d is coming to save us. Then the “blind” (from fear) will “see” and the “deaf ” (to the words of the prophets) will “hear.” Israel, who are now lame, will jump like a deer; Israel, currently muted among the nations, will sing because of G-d’s salvation. They will blossom like a desert upon receiving springs of water. Those who long for salvation will be saved - compared to dry places becoming pools of water. There will be a highway leading to Jerusalem for the “blind,” “deaf,” “lame” and “mute” described above. Even fools will not get lost on it. Neither our enemies nor wild animals will approach us on this road. The redeemed will return to Jerusalem in song, with the “joy of the world” on their heads. (Rashi says this refers to the ancient joy of the salvation from Egypt.) Happiness and joy will pursue them, while sadness and mourning will run away from them. Summary provided by Rabbi Jack Abramowitz of the Orthodox Union

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Yeshaya Perek 34

Yeshaya Perek 34 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya calls the nations of the Earth to listen as he foretells the downfall of Edom. G-d has judged the nations and allowed them to be destroyed, their dead unburied. The Heavens will (metaphorically) be rolled like a scroll. G-d’s “sword” is full, from the kings and governors of Edom (compared to sheep and goats), for He has made a great slaughter in Edom and Basra. (Basra was a city in Moab, but they were cohorts of Edom.) The kings of other nations (compared to oxen) will fall alongside the princes of Edom because it is a day of judgment for G-d, Who hears the cries of the Jews. The streams of Edom will become like tar and the dirt will become like sulfur. Smoke will ascend by day and night, it will be a wasteland for generations. Night birds and predators will inherit it. The palaces will grow thorns and become a home for jackals. The owl lays her eggs and vultures gather. Yesha’ya implores the people to read the story of Noah in the book of Genesis and see how no animal was excluded. Here, too, no animal will be excluded (Rashi). G-d casts lots for all the birds and animals and gives each their share of the land of Edom to inherit. Summary provided by Rabbi Jack Abramowitz of the Orthodox Union

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Yeshaya Perek 33

Yeshaya Perek 33 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Now, Yesha’ya says woe to the nation that plunders and betrays, for they themselves are about to be plundered and betrayed. (Most commentators identify this nation with Assyria). The Jews pray to G-d to be gracious to us, for we have hoped for Him. Nations scattered from before G-d when they saw their might was nothing before Him. The loot of the plundered nation with be gathered like grain by a plague of locusts. G-d is exalted above all, filling Jerusalem with justice and righteousness. The faith of the times will be strength, salvation, wisdom and knowledge. The messengers of peace cry in the streets over the destruction. Assyria has broken their treaty with the kingdom of Judah by attacking Jerusalem. The land mourns; Assyria has disgraced Lebanon and emptied other nations, as well. G-d tells both “far-off ” Jews (meaning those who who have followed His word for a long time) and “close” ones (meaning those who have only recently turned to Him) to listen and know His strength. Who can stand against the eternal flames? One who walks in righteousness, speaks honestly and despises bribes and other forms of evil. Such a person will dwell safely, as in a tower, not worrying where his next meal is coming from. They will see G-d in His glory and they will wonder what happened to those tyrants who formerly ruled. They will no longer be ruled by foreign nations.

Jerusalem will be rebuilt with innumerable towers, a place of peace that will not be moved. It will be a place of rivers, but no invading army will enter. G-d is our King, Who will save us. The ropes of the enemy ships are so loose, they won’t hold the sail or the mast properly; their loot will be divided among many nations. Israel, who were formerly sick and weak, will take their share. No longer will they be sick, for their sins have been forgiven.

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Yeshaya Perek 32

Yeshaya Perek 32 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Ahaz was a wicked king, but he would be succeeded by his son Hizki’ya who was righteous. Hizki’ya would be a source of merit and protection for the nation. In his day, people’s eyes and ears would not be closed to the word of G-d. Evil and deceitful people would not be honored in Hizki’ya’s day. Insincere people plot evil, while speak- ing flattery and lying about what G-d sees or wants from us. Such people care only about themselves, even at the expense of the truly needy. But there are also generous people who will thrive because of their goodness. Yesha’ya warns the nation not to be complacent. The people’s sins are mounting up and payback is coming. They will cry and mourn for all the thorns that will come up in the fields. The palace - possibly referring to the Temple - will be abandoned, towers will become ruins. Eventually, however, “the spirit of” G-d will pour out on the nation and deserts will bloom into fields and fields will grow into forests. Justice and righteousness will reign in these places. The people will dwell in security and peace. Just as the lowly are raised, the arrogant - the Persian capital according to Rashi - will be humbled. The people of Israel are fortunate because the lands will be so fertile that they can plant and animals can graze anywhere

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Yeshaya Perek 31

Yeshaya Perek 31 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya continues to criticize King Hoshea of the Northern Kingdom of Israel for relying on Egypt, rather than on G-d, for help against Assyria. G-d knows the thoughts and deeds of man and pays them back accordingly. G-d told the Jewish people not to go back to Egypt (see Deuteronomy 28:68); since they went there voluntarily, He will bring them there again against their will. The Egyptians are just people; they have no ability to help unless G-d wills it. All He has to do is “turn His hand” and they will fall.

G-d is like a lion, poised to attack its prey (Assyria). The shepherds who oppose such a lion are of no conse- quence to it. G-d will spare and protect Jerusalem. Yesha’ya urges the people to return to G-d, Whom they have ignored. When G-d destroys the Assyrian army, the people will realize that their idols are powerless and will regret turning to them in the first place. Sanheriv, king of Assyria will flee, seeking refuge because of G-d’s miracle. G-d’s “fire” is in the Temple altar and His “furnace” is in Jerusalem.

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Yeshaya Perek 30

Yeshaya Perek 30 -
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

G-d says woe to His rebellious children, who take advice, but not from Him, and who appoint rulers over themselves that are not G-d-fearing. Hoshea, the last king of Israel, sent messengers to the Pharaoh in Egypt without G-d’s approval; in the end, he was punished and became a prisoner of the Assyrians. Thinking that Pharaoh’s aid would be better than G-d’s is shameful. The Egyptians ended up being no help at all; they are full of pride, but for doing nothing. Yesha’ya is now instructed by G-d to write this prophecy on a tablet in front of the people, and it will be for the last day. The people are like disobedient children, refusing to listen to G-d. They refuse to hear prophets what the prophets have to say, they tell the prophets to leave the path they are on, preferring false prophecies. Therefore, says G-d, because you prefer the false way, this sin will like a falling wall, whose collapse comes suddenly. G-d will break it like a jug, without pity, there won’t be a useful piece remaining. They preferred to rely on horses to flee, but their pursuers were fast. But G-d will be gracious and have mercy. He metes out justice, then rewards those who rely on Him. In the future, a nation will dwell in Jerusalem and there will be no need for tears.. Our “Teacher” (G-d) will no longer be concealed from us; we will have clear instructions as to how to go. The Jews will strip the gold and silver plating off their idols and cast them out like waste matter.

G-d will cause it to rain so that we can plant and there will be plenty of food for our animals. There will be so much rain that, at the time of Gog and Magog (or possibly the fall of Assyria), the mountains will all have streams running on them. The moon will be as bright as the sun is now and the sun will be seven times brighter when G-d heals His people, Israel. (The Radak says the light is a metaphor for our joy.) G-d, Whose Name was blasphemed by the Assyrians, is coming to fulfill what He said long ago. He will shake up the nations and lead them to their downfall. The Jews will sing as they do on a festival. G-d will make His voice heard and He will show His might in a display of fire, hail and thunder. Assyria, Israel’s oppressor, will be broken by G-d’s voice. Wherever G-d takes action against Assyria, it will be accompanied by the sound of musical instruments. Hell is ready for Sanheriv, the king of Assyria; G-d’s “breath” burns in it like sulfur. (Radak says that all this is a metaphor for the harsh things that would befall Assyria.)

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Yeshaya Perek 29

Yeshaya Perek 29-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Now Yesha’ya mourns for the altar, which is compared to a “lion of G-d.” Jerusalem, the city in which the altar can be found, will be besieged. The city and its people will be humbled, lowered to the dirt. Those who invade, the army of Assyria, will be consumed and will become like dust. G-d will save the altar through miraculous means, referring again to the plague that wiped out the Assyrian army in a single night. The multitude of nations sur- rounding Jerusalem will seem like a dream. A hungry person dreams he’s eating, but wakes up as hungry as ever - that’s how it will be with the nations that surround Jerusalem. The false prophets were blinded to the truth and they blinded others to it. They were like drunks, without even drinking a sip. G-d made them fall into a deep sleep, covering their eyes. To them, the words of true prophets are like somebody trying to read a closed book, or someone giving a book to a person who can’t even read. G-d says, “This nation honors Me with lip-service, but not sincerely in their hearts. They are acting out of rote. Therefore, I will take away sages, making My word more obscure and much wisdom will be lost.” Woe to those who think they can conceal their thoughts and deeds from G-d. They think nobody can see them and nobody will know. Who understands a creation better than its Creator? Soon, Lebanon will blossom into a fertile field and fertile fields will become forests. The deaf will hear the words of prophecy and the blind will see through the darkness. Those who previously suffered will rejoice in G-d; the tyrants are gone and the evil people have been destroyed. Now our Forefathers will no longer be ashamed of their children, who are following in their footsteps by following G-d. Those who were cynical will learn and understand.

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Yeshaya Perek 28

Yeshaya Perek 28-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

Yesha’ya now criticizes the people of Israel for gluttony and drunkenness. They are like inferior, spoiled fruits; G-d will come down on them like a powerful storm. The drunkards will be cast down and walked on. Then, G-d will be a crown of beauty for the rest of His people, who are righteous. G-d will teach justice to the judges and He will be a source of strength to those who fight the battles of Torah. These people may also have been misled by wine, becoming corrupt and causing injustices. Their tables are full of sacrifices to idols, which are repulsive. We must re-teach the nation as we do children: little by little, a piece at a time. The words of the prophets are like a foreign language to them; they can’t understand. G-d told them that this was real rest, but they wouldn’t listen. The word of G-d will be the law to them; they will stumble, fall and break. Therefore, listen to G-d and don’t look down on His word. G-d says, “I have laid a cornerstone in Jerusalem,” (Rashi says this means that He has already established the Mashiah).“Those who believe will have faith, though it will take a long time. I will make justice and righteous- ness My tools. The ‘deal’ you think you made with idols will be null and void - you will be swept away by the very troubles you thought to avoid.”

There is now a list of things that will befall Israel in enemy hands: harsh decrees, sheer terror for those who hear them, and more work to be done for the oppressors than can be accomplished. G-d will take action, doing strange things to deliver Israel into their enemies’ hands, just as He does miraculous things when he redeems them from trouble. Do not belittle, Yesha’ya says, because G-d has decreed total destruction on the land. Does a farmer plow forever and never sow? Similarly, the prophets will not warn you forever without action ever being taken. G-d sends prophets and if the people refuse to listen to them, He will admonish the people. G-d gives, through Yesha’ya, further allegories of sowing cumin and planting grain - all of these are His ways of trying to nudge the people back onto the proper path.

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Yeshaya Perek 27

Yeshaya Perek 27-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

On the day that G-d judges, He will slay the two Leviathans, which Rashi says represent Egypt and Assyria. He will also slay the “sea serpent” (the kingdom of Sur). When Israel is redeemed, they will be like a vineyard of rich wine that G-d waters and guards by day and night. He can have no anger against the nations because Israel also sins. If the Jews would hold fast to the Torah, G-d could strike the other nations according to strict justice. The Jews went to Egypt in the time of Jacob and they flourished into a nation there. God repaid Pharaoh for the evil they inflicted on the Jews. When Egypt sent the Jews out, G-d repaid them measure for measure. As it was then, it will be now - Israel will be redeemed from their oppressors. They will be forgiven their sins if they tear down their idols and altars. When they do this, an Edomite stronghold will be abandoned and Israel will dwell there. When the merits of Edom run out altogether, they will be utterly destroyed by the weakest. Israel, however, does not recognize their relationship with G-d, so He is not looking out for them. When G-d redeems Israel, he will gather all those who have been lost and assimilated thanks to the Assyrian exile. A great shofar will sound and those lost in Egypt and Assyria will return, bowing down to G-d at the Temple in Jerusalem.

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Yeshaya Perek 26

Yeshaya Perek 26-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

When G-d humbles Moab, the following song will be sung in Judah:

Jerusalem, which was our strength, will have salvation for support. Open the gates so that the righteous may enter. Those who relied on G-d will be shielded with peace for their faith. Trust in G-d forever because He is eternally steadfast. He brings down the high and mighty so that those who had been made poor (Israel) may walk over them. The path for the righteous is a direct route to their reward. We look forward to G-d rewarding the righteous and judging the evil. We longed for G-d while we were in exile (compared by Yesha’ya to night- time), asking for the day He would render judgment. Should the wicked, who didn’t learn their lesson, be shown favor? They’re too full of themselves to see G-d. G-d’s hand has been taken away, so they do not see - let them see and they’ll be ashamed! They will be jealous of G-d’s relationship with Israel and their shame will consume them, like fire. G-d, please prepare peace for us because you have already paid us for our sins. We were ruled by “masters” other than G-d, but we only want Him. The evil will not see the Next World or the resurrection; they are utterly destroyed. G-d has added Torah and honor to Israel and He is honored in return. Even in bad times, we do not question G-d, turning instead to prayer. We were in pain like a woman in labor, but there was no salvation and the oppressors did not fall. May the righteous who died for G-d live again and praise Him. Look into your hearts and do introspection; do good deeds to protect yourself from G-d’s anger. G-d is coming to pay the wicked for their sins. Mount Seir, the home of Esau’s descendants, will reveal the blood of those whom they killed.

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Yeshaya Perek 25

Yeshaya Perek 25-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 24

Yeshaya Perek 24-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 23

Yeshaya Perek 23-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 22

Yeshaya Perek 22-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 21

Yeshaya Perek 21-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 20

Yeshaya Perek 20-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 19

Yeshaya Perek 19-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 18

Yeshaya Perek 18-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 17

Yeshaya Perek 17-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 16

Yeshaya Perek 16-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 15

Yeshaya Perek 15-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 14

Yeshaya Perek 14-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 13

Yeshaya Perek 13-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 12

Yeshaya Perek 12-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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Yeshaya Perek 11

Yeshaya Perek 11-
Sefer Yeshaya is taught by Rabbi Albert Setton, Rabbi at Congregation Magen David of West Deal; Rabbi in Hillel Yeshiva.

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