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Isaiah 4

6 verses

TL;DR

The chapter depicts a future time of restoration and divine protection for the people of Zion, highlighting purification, unity, and God's enduring presence.

Summary

Isaiah 4 speaks of a renewed community where seven women hold one man, symbolizing unity and self-sufficiency as they seek to be known by God's name. The Lord's branch will be glorious, and the earth's fruit will be pleasing to the survivors of Israel. Those remaining in Zion and Jerusalem will be declared holy, emphasizing the sanctity of the living community. The Lord will cleanse the daughters of Zion, removing filth and blood through judgment and fiery purification. Divine protection will manifest as clouds and smoke by day and a flaming fire by night over every dwelling, guarding the glory. A tabernacle of shadow will offer refuge from heat, storm, and rain, ensuring safety in all conditions.

Outline
  1. Unity and identity: seven women and one man (v.1)
  2. Divine blessing: the Lord's branch and fruitful earth (v.2)
  3. Sanctification of survivors in Zion and Jerusalem (v.3)
  4. Purification: cleansing of filth and blood (v.4)
  5. Divine protection: clouds, smoke, and flame (v.5)
  6. Tabernacle of refuge: shadow and shelter (v.6)
Themes
Restoration and renewalPurification and sanctificationDivine protection and presence
Keywords
ZionJerusalemLordbranchpurificationcloudfirerefugetabernacle
People
Places
ZionJerusalemMount Zion
Things
Branch of the LORDFruit of the earthCloud and smokeFlaming fireTabernacle of shadowRefuge from heat, storm, and rain
Key Verses
  • Isaiah 4:1: Introduces symbolic unity of the people, setting the tone for restoration.
  • Isaiah 4:4: Describes the cleansing of Zion, emphasizing judgment and purification.
  • Isaiah 4:5: Highlights God's protective presence through divine light and smoke.
  • Isaiah 4:6: Illustrates tangible shelter provided by God, underscoring care and safety.
Questions
  • What does the image of seven women holding one man suggest about community and identity?
  • How does the concept of purification by judgment and fire inform our understanding of divine justice?
  • In what ways does the portrayal of clouds and fire as protective signs reflect on God's care for His people?
  • How might the tabernacle of shadow serve as a metaphor for spiritual refuge in difficult times?
Sentiment

positive
The chapter conveys hope, renewal, and divine protection.