ISAIAH 9

v. 1 actually continues the prose thought of Isaiah 8.

v. 1b Assyria carved out land for itself from Zebulun and Napthtali in 733 BC. The coming king will reverse the situation “in the latter time.” They were the first to fall, but will apparently be the first to be restored. Fulfilled in Jesus at Nazareth, Galilee, Capernaum, etc. Alternatively, Northern Kingdom was first to fall to Gentile rule, and it will be the Gentiles who will first embrace Jesus.

vv. 1-7 is written in the past tense = prophetic perfect tense (indicating the surety of the prophecy coming true).

v. 2 The light reverses the gloom of 9:1.

vv. 4-5a Military oppression symbolized by yoke, bar, rod and boots.

v. 4 Day of Midian was when Gideon conquered their army (Judges 7).

v. 5 No need for war anymore.

v. 6 contains astounding language ascribing deity (Wonderful, everlasting, Father, God) to a child born, who apparently is of the line of David and is the Messiah with an eternal reign. Hint of the Holy Spirit (counselor) also? [Alternatively, the names refer to God, not the son. However, these are not names given to Hebrew boys.]

Again, a son being born has significance – King Hezekiah and later Jesus?

v. 8 may refer to the preaching of Amos or Hosea.

Change of pace here with condemnations ending in choruses (“His hand is stretched out still”) at 12b, 17b, 21b, and 10:4b. Same as 5:25b.

vv. 8-12 refer to arrogance and pride.

v 13-17 refer to corrupt leaders.

v. 13 They turned to their leaders instead of to God.

v. 17 Even though the leaders were at fault for leading them astray, the people are not excused from following them.

vv. 19-20 refer to hatred and strife: civil war.

vv. 19-21 Even self destruction is part of God's judgment.

10:1-4 refers to injustice.