Who is this coming from Edom,
Edom, located southeast of Israel, was historically an enemy of Israel, often symbolizing opposition to God's people. The mention of Edom here may represent God's judgment against nations opposing His will. Edom's history of conflict with Israel is documented in Genesis 36 and Obadiah, where Edom's eventual downfall is prophesied.

from Bozrah with crimson-stained garments?
Bozrah was a major city in Edom, known for its fortifications. The crimson-stained garments suggest a victorious warrior returning from battle, symbolizing divine judgment. This imagery parallels Revelation 19:13, where Christ is depicted with a robe dipped in blood, emphasizing His role as a divine warrior.

Who is this robed in splendor,
The splendor of the robe signifies majesty and authority, often associated with divine presence. This imagery is reminiscent of the transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17:2, where His divine nature is revealed in radiant glory.

marching in the greatness of His strength?
The phrase highlights the power and authority of the figure, suggesting an unstoppable force. This echoes the depiction of God as a mighty warrior in Exodus 15:3 and Psalm 24:8, emphasizing His ability to deliver and protect His people.

“It is I, proclaiming vindication,
The speaker identifies Himself as the one bringing justice. This aligns with the messianic role of Jesus, who in Luke 4:18-19, declares His mission to proclaim freedom and justice, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecies.

mighty to save.”
This phrase underscores the power to deliver and redeem, a central theme in the Bible. It connects to passages like Zephaniah 3:17, where God is described as a mighty savior, and to the New Testament portrayal of Jesus as the Savior of the world in John 4:42.

Why are Your clothes red
This phrase is part of a dialogue where the speaker questions the appearance of the figure described. The imagery of red clothing is symbolic and often associated with judgment and wrath in biblical literature. In the context of Isaiah, this red color is indicative of blood, suggesting a divine warrior who has been engaged in battle. The color red is also significant in the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, where blood was a central element in atonement rituals, pointing to the seriousness of sin and the need for purification. This imagery can be connected to Revelation 19:13, where Christ is depicted wearing a robe dipped in blood, symbolizing His role as the ultimate judge and redeemer.

and Your garments like one who treads the winepress?
The winepress imagery is a powerful metaphor for judgment. In ancient times, treading the winepress involved crushing grapes to extract juice, which is likened to the execution of divine judgment upon the nations. This metaphor is used elsewhere in Scripture, such as in Joel 3:13 and Revelation 14:19-20, to depict God's wrath being poured out. The act of treading the winepress signifies the thoroughness and inevitability of divine judgment. Historically, winepresses were common in Israel and surrounding regions, and the process was well understood by the original audience, making it a vivid illustration of God's power and justice. This imagery also foreshadows the ultimate judgment at the end of the age, where Christ, as the righteous judge, will execute justice.

I have trodden the winepress alone
This phrase evokes the imagery of a winepress, a common agricultural tool in ancient Israel used for crushing grapes to produce wine. The act of treading the winepress alone signifies a solitary and decisive action, emphasizing the speaker's unique role and authority. In biblical symbolism, the winepress often represents judgment (Revelation 14:19-20). The solitary nature of the action underscores the idea that this judgment is carried out by God alone, without assistance from any human or nation, highlighting divine sovereignty and the insufficiency of human intervention in divine matters.

and no one from the nations was with Me
This phrase indicates the absence of any allies or helpers from among the nations, suggesting a universal judgment where no nation is righteous enough to assist. It reflects the theme of God's holiness and the separation between divine justice and human sinfulness. The nations often symbolize worldly powers and systems opposed to God's will (Psalm 2:1-2). This separation also points to the exclusivity of God's redemptive work, which is fulfilled in Christ, who alone is capable of executing divine justice and salvation (Isaiah 59:16).

I trampled them in My anger and trod them down in My fury
The imagery of trampling and treading down conveys a powerful and overwhelming act of judgment. Anger and fury are expressions of God's righteous indignation against sin and rebellion. This reflects the biblical theme of divine retribution, where God's holiness demands justice against unrighteousness (Nahum 1:2-3). The intensity of the language underscores the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine judgment. It also foreshadows the ultimate victory of Christ over evil, as seen in prophetic visions of the end times (Revelation 19:15).

their blood spattered My garments
The spattering of blood on garments is a vivid image of the consequences of judgment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, blood was a symbol of life and its loss represented death and destruction. This imagery is consistent with the sacrificial system, where blood was central to atonement and purification (Leviticus 17:11). The staining of garments with blood signifies the thoroughness of judgment and the cost of sin. It also prefigures the sacrificial death of Christ, whose own blood was shed for the redemption of humanity (Hebrews 9:22).

and all My clothes were stained
The complete staining of clothes indicates the totality and completeness of the judgment executed. In biblical terms, garments often symbolize one's deeds or righteousness (Isaiah 64:6). The staining here suggests the pervasive impact of sin and the comprehensive nature of divine justice. This imagery can also be seen as a type of Christ, who bore the sins of the world and whose own garments were metaphorically stained through His sacrificial death (2 Corinthians 5:21). The passage ultimately points to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Christ, who alone can cleanse and restore.

For the day of vengeance was in My heart
This phrase indicates a time of divine retribution. In the context of Isaiah, it reflects God's judgment against the nations that have oppressed Israel. The "day of vengeance" is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, often associated with the Day of the Lord, a time when God will execute justice (Isaiah 34:8, Jeremiah 46:10). The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of will and emotion, suggesting that this judgment is both intentional and deeply felt by God. This concept is also echoed in the New Testament, where God's justice is ultimately fulfilled in Christ's return (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).

and the year of My redemption had come
The "year of My redemption" contrasts with the day of vengeance, indicating a period of deliverance and restoration for God's people. Redemption in the Old Testament often involves liberation from bondage, as seen in the Exodus narrative. This phrase suggests a time when God will reclaim and restore His people, fulfilling His covenant promises. The use of "year" implies a prolonged period of blessing and favor, reminiscent of the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25), when debts were forgiven and slaves freed. In the New Testament, this redemption is ultimately realized through Jesus Christ, who redeems humanity from sin (Ephesians 1:7, Galatians 4:4-5).

I looked, but there was no one to help;
This phrase reflects the divine search for assistance in executing judgment and salvation, highlighting the absence of any human or angelic aid. In the context of Isaiah, this underscores God's sovereignty and the inadequacy of human efforts in achieving divine purposes. The imagery of God looking for help but finding none is reminiscent of Ezekiel 22:30, where God sought someone to stand in the gap but found no one. It emphasizes the theme of divine initiative and the futility of relying on human strength.

I was appalled that no one assisted.
The term "appalled" conveys a sense of astonishment and disappointment at the lack of support. This reflects God's righteous indignation at the failure of humanity to uphold justice and righteousness. Historically, this can be seen in the context of Israel's repeated failures to live up to their covenantal responsibilities. The cultural backdrop of ancient Near Eastern societies often involved gods needing assistance from humans or other deities, but here, the God of Israel stands alone, highlighting His uniqueness and self-sufficiency.

So My arm brought Me salvation,
The "arm" of God is a metaphor for His power and might, often used in the Old Testament to describe His intervention in history (e.g., Exodus 6:6). This phrase indicates that salvation is achieved solely through God's power, without human aid. It foreshadows the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ as the "arm of the Lord" (Isaiah 53:1), who brings ultimate salvation through His death and resurrection. This typology points to the messianic fulfillment in Christ, who accomplishes what humanity cannot.

and My own wrath upheld Me.
God's wrath here is not capricious anger but a righteous response to sin and injustice. It is His zeal for holiness and justice that sustains His actions. This phrase suggests that God's wrath is an integral part of His character, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled. In the broader biblical narrative, God's wrath is often a precursor to redemption, as seen in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and the ultimate salvation through Christ. Theologically, it underscores the necessity of divine judgment as a prelude to salvation, a theme echoed in the eschatological visions of Revelation.

I trampled the nations in My anger;
This phrase reflects divine judgment and echoes the imagery of a winepress, where grapes are crushed underfoot. The act of trampling signifies complete domination and destruction, often used in prophetic literature to describe God's judgment against sin and rebellion. The nations represent those who oppose God's will, and this imagery is consistent with other biblical passages such as Revelation 19:15, where Christ is depicted as treading the winepress of God's wrath. Historically, this reflects the Assyrian and Babylonian invasions, where God used foreign nations as instruments of judgment against Israel and other nations.

in My wrath I made them drunk
The metaphor of making the nations drunk with wrath suggests overwhelming them with divine judgment, leading to confusion and downfall. This imagery is used elsewhere in Scripture, such as Jeremiah 25:15-16, where the nations drink the cup of God's wrath and stagger. The concept of divine retribution is central here, emphasizing that God's judgment is both righteous and inevitable. The cultural context of the ancient Near East often associated drunkenness with loss of control and impending doom, reinforcing the severity of God's actions.

and poured out their blood on the ground.”
This phrase signifies the complete and utter defeat of the nations, with their blood symbolizing life being violently taken away. The pouring out of blood on the ground is a vivid depiction of death and destruction, reminiscent of sacrificial imagery where blood is poured out as an offering. In the context of Isaiah, it underscores the seriousness of God's judgment against sin. This imagery is also prophetic, pointing to the ultimate judgment at the end of times, as seen in Revelation 14:20, where the blood flows from the winepress of God's wrath. Theologically, it foreshadows the sacrificial death of Christ, whose blood was poured out for the redemption of humanity, contrasting the judgment here with the grace offered through Jesus.

I will make known the LORD’s loving devotion and His praiseworthy acts
This phrase emphasizes the importance of proclaiming God's steadfast love and the deeds that reflect His character. In the Hebrew context, "loving devotion" is often translated from the word "chesed," which signifies covenantal loyalty and mercy. The act of making known God's deeds is a call to testify to His faithfulness, similar to the psalmist's exhortations in Psalms 105:1-2. This public declaration serves as a reminder of God's past faithfulness, encouraging trust in His future promises.

because of all that the LORD has done for us
This reflects a communal acknowledgment of God's actions on behalf of His people. Historically, this includes the deliverance from Egypt, the provision in the wilderness, and the establishment in the Promised Land. The phrase invites reflection on personal and collective experiences of God's intervention, akin to the recounting of God's deeds in Deuteronomy 6:20-25. It underscores the importance of gratitude and remembrance in the life of faith.

the many good things for the house of Israel
The "house of Israel" refers to the descendants of Jacob, encompassing the twelve tribes. The "many good things" can be seen in the context of the blessings promised to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:2-3). These include the land, prosperity, and a special relationship with God. The historical context includes periods of peace and prosperity under kings like David and Solomon, as well as spiritual blessings through the covenants.

according to His great compassion and loving devotion
This phrase highlights the motivation behind God's actions—His compassion and steadfast love. The term "compassion" is often linked to the Hebrew word "rachamim," which conveys a deep, tender mercy. This reflects God's character as described in Exodus 34:6-7, where He is "compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness." The repetition of "loving devotion" reinforces the covenantal aspect of God's relationship with Israel, pointing to His unwavering commitment despite Israel's unfaithfulness. This foreshadows the ultimate expression of God's love and compassion in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's covenantal faithfulness and mercy.

For He said,
This phrase indicates a direct statement from God, emphasizing His active role in the narrative. It reflects God's intention and decision-making process. In the context of Isaiah, God often speaks directly to His people, revealing His plans and purposes. This divine speech underscores the authority and sovereignty of God in the lives of the Israelites.

“They are surely My people,
This declaration highlights the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The term "My people" is significant throughout the Old Testament, denoting a special, chosen status. This phrase echoes God's promise to Abraham and the patriarchs, where He established Israel as His own nation (Genesis 17:7). It also reflects the intimate relationship God desires with His people, akin to a familial bond.

sons who will not be disloyal.”
Here, the term "sons" signifies a familial relationship, suggesting both privilege and responsibility. The expectation of loyalty is rooted in the covenant, where Israel is called to faithfulness to God. Historically, Israel's disloyalty is a recurring theme, leading to periods of judgment and exile. This phrase can be seen as an ideal expectation, contrasting with Israel's frequent rebellion. It also foreshadows the New Testament concept of believers as children of God (John 1:12).

So He became their Savior.
This statement reveals God's response to His people's identity and need. Despite Israel's failures, God acts as their Savior, delivering them from oppression and sin. This role of God as Savior is a central theme in the Bible, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The concept of salvation here is both physical and spiritual, pointing to God's ultimate plan of redemption through Christ, who is the fulfillment of the prophetic hope for a Savior (Matthew 1:21).

In all their distress, He too was afflicted
This phrase highlights God's empathy and solidarity with His people. It reflects the deep connection between God and Israel, where their suffering becomes His own. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ is described as a High Priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15). The idea of God being afflicted alongside His people can also be seen in the narrative of the Exodus, where God hears the cries of the Israelites and is moved to act on their behalf (Exodus 3:7-8).

and the Angel of His Presence saved them
The "Angel of His Presence" is often understood as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. This angel is not merely a messenger but represents God's immediate presence and power. In Exodus 23:20-23, God promises to send an angel to guard and lead the Israelites, which is seen as a direct intervention of God in their deliverance. This angelic figure is also associated with the divine presence in the wilderness, guiding and protecting the Israelites.

In His love and compassion He redeemed them
God's actions are motivated by His love and compassion, central attributes of His character. Redemption here refers to the deliverance from bondage, particularly the Exodus from Egypt, which is a foundational event in Israel's history. This act of redemption is a type of the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who delivers humanity from the bondage of sin (Ephesians 1:7). The language of love and compassion underscores the personal and relational nature of God's salvation.

He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old
This imagery of God lifting and carrying His people evokes the care and protection He provided throughout their history, especially during the Exodus and the wilderness wanderings. Deuteronomy 1:31 describes God carrying Israel as a father carries his son, emphasizing His nurturing and sustaining role. This phrase also points to God's faithfulness and enduring commitment to His covenant people, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament through Christ's sacrificial love and ongoing intercession for believers.

But they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit.
This phrase highlights the Israelites' disobedience and resistance to God's guidance. The rebellion refers to their repeated turning away from God's commandments, as seen throughout their history, particularly during the wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:11). Grieving the Holy Spirit indicates a deep sorrow caused by their actions, suggesting a personal relationship between God and His people. This concept is echoed in Ephesians 4:30, where believers are warned not to grieve the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit's presence in the Old Testament is seen as guiding and empowering, as in the anointing of leaders like Moses and David. The rebellion can be understood in the context of Israel's covenant relationship with God, where obedience was expected in return for His blessings and protection.

So He turned and became their enemy,
This phrase reflects the consequences of Israel's rebellion. God's turning against His people is a theme found in the covenant curses of Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience leads to divine judgment. The idea of God becoming an enemy is a reversal of His role as protector and provider. Historically, this manifested in events like the Babylonian exile, where God allowed foreign nations to conquer Israel as a form of discipline. This turning is not arbitrary but a response to persistent sin, emphasizing God's justice and holiness. It serves as a warning that God's patience has limits and that persistent rebellion leads to severe consequences.

and He Himself fought against them.
This phrase underscores the active role God takes in disciplining His people. The imagery of God fighting against Israel is reminiscent of the divine warrior motif, where God is depicted as a mighty warrior defending His people or, in this case, executing judgment. Instances of God fighting against Israel can be seen in the defeat at Ai (Joshua 7) and the fall of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25). This action is not out of malice but a corrective measure intended to bring Israel back to repentance. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and redemption through Jesus Christ, who, as the divine warrior, conquers sin and death, offering reconciliation to those who turn back to God.

Then His people remembered the days of old, the days of Moses.
This phrase reflects a moment of reflection and longing for past deliverance. The "days of old" refers to the time of the Exodus, a foundational event in Israel's history when God delivered His people from Egyptian bondage. This remembrance serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of God's past faithfulness. The mention of Moses highlights his role as a mediator and leader, chosen by God to guide Israel. This period is often seen as a type of Christ, with Moses prefiguring Jesus as a deliverer and mediator of a new covenant.

Where is He who brought them through the sea with the shepherds of His flock?
This question recalls the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, a pivotal event demonstrating God's power and protection. The "shepherds of His flock" likely refers to Moses and Aaron, who led the Israelites like shepherds guiding sheep. This imagery is consistent with the biblical theme of God as the ultimate Shepherd, a role later fulfilled by Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. The crossing of the sea is a type of baptism, symbolizing salvation and the transition from slavery to freedom.

Where is the One who set His Holy Spirit among them,
This phrase emphasizes the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in the midst of Israel during their wilderness journey. The Holy Spirit's role in guiding, empowering, and sanctifying God's people is a consistent theme throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, the Spirit's presence was often associated with specific leaders or prophets, but here it is noted as being among the people collectively. This foreshadows the New Testament outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, where the Spirit is given to all believers, marking the new covenant community.

who sent His glorious arm
This phrase refers to God's power and might, often symbolized by His "arm" in Scripture. The "glorious arm" signifies divine intervention and strength. In the context of the Exodus, it highlights God's active role in delivering Israel from Egypt. The arm of the Lord is a recurring theme in Isaiah (e.g., Isaiah 52:10), symbolizing salvation and judgment.

to lead them by the right hand of Moses
Moses is depicted as God's chosen leader, guided by divine power. The "right hand" symbolizes authority and skill. Moses, as a type of Christ, prefigures Jesus as the ultimate deliverer and mediator. This leadership is not by Moses' own strength but through God's empowerment, as seen in Exodus 14:21-22 when Moses parts the Red Sea.

who divided the waters before them
This refers to the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, a pivotal event in Israel's history (Exodus 14:21-22). It demonstrates God's control over creation and His ability to make a way where there seems to be none. This act is a type of baptism, symbolizing the transition from slavery to freedom, and is referenced in 1 Corinthians 10:1-2 as a foreshadowing of Christian baptism.

to gain for Himself everlasting renown
God's actions in history, such as the Exodus, are meant to reveal His glory and establish His reputation among the nations. The deliverance of Israel serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and power, intended to be remembered throughout generations. This everlasting renown is echoed in Psalm 106:8, where God's deeds are praised for the sake of His name.

who led them through the depths
This phrase refers to God's guidance of the Israelites through the Red Sea during the Exodus. The "depths" symbolize the chaotic waters that God parted, allowing His people to pass through safely. This event is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness. It is also a type of baptism, symbolizing the transition from slavery to freedom, and prefigures Christian baptism as a passage from sin to new life in Christ. The crossing of the Red Sea is recounted in Exodus 14 and is celebrated in Psalms 106:9 and 136:13.

like a horse in the wilderness
The imagery of a horse in the wilderness suggests strength, freedom, and guidance. In the ancient Near East, horses were symbols of power and swiftness. The wilderness, or desert, was a place of testing and reliance on God. This phrase emphasizes God's ability to lead His people with strength and purpose, even in desolate and challenging environments. The wilderness journey of the Israelites is detailed in the books of Exodus and Numbers, where God provided for and guided them despite their frequent disobedience.

so that they did not stumble?
This part of the verse highlights God's protective care. Despite the treacherous journey, God ensured that the Israelites did not falter. This protection is a testament to His covenant faithfulness. The idea of not stumbling is echoed in Psalm 121:3, where God is described as the one who keeps His people from falling. It also points to the spiritual truth that God sustains those who trust in Him, a theme reiterated in the New Testament, such as in Jude 1:24, where God is able to keep believers from stumbling spiritually.

Like cattle going down to the valley
This phrase evokes imagery of cattle moving to a place of rest and sustenance, symbolizing the Israelites' journey to a place of peace and provision. In biblical times, valleys were often fertile and provided necessary resources for livestock, representing God's provision for His people. This imagery connects to Psalm 23:2, where God leads His people beside still waters, emphasizing His role as a shepherd. The valley can also symbolize a place of humility and dependence on God, contrasting with the pride of self-reliance.

the Spirit of the LORD gave them rest
The Spirit of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, representing God's active presence and guidance. Here, the Spirit provides rest, which is a fulfillment of God's promise to His people, as seen in Exodus 33:14, where God assures Moses of His presence and rest. This rest is not merely physical but spiritual, pointing to the ultimate rest found in Christ (Matthew 11:28-30). The rest given by the Spirit is a foretaste of the eternal rest promised in Hebrews 4:9-10.

You led Your people this way
This phrase highlights God's direct involvement in guiding His people, reminiscent of the Exodus journey where God led the Israelites by a pillar of cloud and fire (Exodus 13:21-22). It underscores God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises. The leadership of God is a central theme throughout Scripture, pointing to Jesus as the Good Shepherd who leads His flock (John 10:11).

to make for Yourself a glorious name
God's actions in history are often aimed at revealing His glory and establishing His name among the nations. This phrase reflects the purpose behind God's deliverance and guidance of Israel, as seen in passages like Exodus 9:16 and Ezekiel 20:9. God's desire to make His name glorious is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection reveal the fullness of God's glory (Philippians 2:9-11). This underscores the theme of God's redemptive plan being centered on His glory and the revelation of His character to the world.

Look down from heaven and see
This phrase is a plea for God to observe the plight of His people from His divine vantage point. The concept of God looking down from heaven is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing His sovereignty and omniscience (Psalm 33:13-14). Heaven is depicted as God's dwelling place, a realm of holiness and glory, distinct from the earthly realm. This plea reflects a deep yearning for divine intervention, reminiscent of the cries of the Israelites in Egypt (Exodus 2:23-25).

from Your holy and glorious habitation
God's habitation is described as holy and glorious, underscoring His purity and majesty. The temple in Jerusalem was considered a reflection of this heavenly dwelling, a place where God's presence was manifest among His people (1 Kings 8:27-30). The holiness of God's habitation sets Him apart from the profane and emphasizes His role as the ultimate judge and redeemer. This phrase also anticipates the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's glory and holiness (John 1:14).

Where are Your zeal and might?
The prophet questions the apparent absence of God's passionate commitment and power, which were historically demonstrated in acts of deliverance and judgment (Exodus 15:11-13). Zeal and might are attributes often associated with God's intervention on behalf of Israel, as seen in the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan. This inquiry reflects a period of perceived divine silence or inaction, prompting the faithful to seek reassurance of God's continued involvement in their lives.

Your yearning and compassion for me are restrained
This phrase expresses a sense of divine withholding, where God's deep love and mercy seem limited or delayed. The Hebrew terms for yearning and compassion convey a profound emotional connection, akin to a parent's love for a child (Isaiah 49:15). The restraint of these attributes suggests a period of testing or judgment, possibly due to Israel's sin and rebellion. However, it also points to the hope of restoration, as God's compassion ultimately triumphs over judgment (Lamentations 3:22-23). This tension between divine justice and mercy is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies God's compassion and offers redemption to humanity (Matthew 9:36).

Yet You are our Father
This phrase emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His people, portraying God as a caring and protective parent. In the Old Testament, God is often depicted as a father to Israel (Deuteronomy 32:6, Psalm 103:13). This fatherly image underscores His authority, guidance, and love for His people, despite their disobedience.

though Abraham does not know us
Here, the text acknowledges a disconnect between the current generation and their patriarch, Abraham. This may reflect a period of spiritual decline or a sense of alienation from their ancestral roots. Abraham, the father of the nation, is seen as distant, highlighting the people's need to rely on God directly rather than solely on their heritage.

and Israel does not acknowledge us
"Israel" here likely refers to Jacob, also known as Israel, the father of the twelve tribes. The phrase suggests a feeling of being forgotten or unrecognized by their forefathers. This could symbolize a loss of identity or a departure from the covenantal faithfulness expected of them. It underscores the importance of a personal relationship with God rather than relying on ancestral connections.

You, O LORD, are our Father
Reiterating God as Father emphasizes His role as the ultimate source of identity and belonging for His people. This repetition serves to affirm their faith and trust in God, despite feeling disconnected from their patriarchal lineage. It also highlights the covenant relationship, where God remains faithful even when His people falter.

our Redeemer from Everlasting is Your name
This phrase identifies God as the eternal Redeemer, pointing to His role in delivering and saving His people throughout history. The concept of redemption is central in the Bible, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ. The term "from Everlasting" emphasizes God's eternal nature and unchanging character, assuring believers of His perpetual presence and salvation. This connects to passages like Isaiah 44:6 and Revelation 1:8, which speak of God's eternal existence and sovereignty.

Why, O LORD, do You make us stray from Your ways
This phrase reflects a deep lament and questioning of God's role in the spiritual state of the people. It echoes the themes of divine sovereignty and human responsibility found throughout Scripture. The Israelites often struggled with idolatry and disobedience, leading to their straying from God's commandments. This question can be seen in light of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where disobedience led to divine discipline. Theologically, it raises questions about God's permissive will and the consequences of human sin.

and harden our hearts from fearing You?
The hardening of hearts is a recurring biblical theme, notably seen in the story of Pharaoh in Exodus. It suggests a judicial act of God in response to persistent rebellion. In the context of Isaiah, it reflects the spiritual blindness and stubbornness of the people, which prevents them from revering God. This hardening can be understood as both a consequence of sin and a divine act that serves a greater purpose in God's redemptive plan.

Return, for the sake of Your servants,
This plea for God to return signifies a desire for restoration and renewal of the covenant relationship. It reflects the hope for divine intervention and mercy. The term "servants" often refers to the faithful remnant within Israel, those who remain loyal to God despite the nation's overall apostasy. This echoes the prayers of other prophets and leaders, such as Moses and Daniel, who interceded for the people.

the tribes of Your heritage.
The reference to "tribes" emphasizes the collective identity of Israel as God's chosen people, descended from the twelve sons of Jacob. It highlights the historical and covenantal significance of Israel's identity and God's promises to the patriarchs. The term "heritage" underscores the idea of Israel as God's possession, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament. This plea for God to remember His covenant with the tribes is a call for the fulfillment of His promises and the restoration of His people.

For a short while Your people possessed Your holy place
This phrase reflects the temporary nature of Israel's possession of the Promised Land and the temple in Jerusalem. Historically, the Israelites entered the land under Joshua's leadership, and the temple was later established by Solomon. However, due to disobedience and idolatry, their hold on the land and the temple was often disrupted. This temporary possession can be seen as a consequence of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings were contingent upon obedience (Deuteronomy 28). The "holy place" refers to the temple, a central symbol of God's presence among His people. The brevity of their possession underscores the recurring theme of exile and return throughout Israel's history.

but our enemies have trampled Your sanctuary
This part of the verse highlights the desecration and destruction of the temple by foreign powers, a significant event in Israel's history. The Babylonians, under King Nebuchadnezzar, destroyed Solomon's Temple in 586 BC, an event that marked a profound spiritual and national crisis for the Jewish people. The trampling of the sanctuary symbolizes not only physical destruction but also spiritual defilement. This imagery is echoed in other prophetic writings, such as Lamentations and Ezekiel, where the destruction of the temple is lamented. Theologically, this serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the vulnerability of sacred spaces when God's protection is withdrawn. The trampling also foreshadows future desecrations, including those mentioned in Daniel's prophecies and the New Testament, where Jesus speaks of the destruction of the temple (Matthew 24:2).

We have become like those You never ruled
This phrase reflects a deep sense of alienation and abandonment. Historically, Israel was chosen by God to be His people, ruled by His laws and under His covenant. The lament here suggests a loss of that special relationship, akin to the Gentile nations who were not under God's direct rule. This can be seen as a consequence of Israel's repeated disobedience and idolatry, leading to their exile and suffering. Theologically, it underscores the importance of God's rule and the blessings that come with being under His governance. This sentiment echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of turning away from God.

like those not called by Your name
Being "called by Your name" signifies a covenant relationship with God, as seen in passages like 2 Chronicles 7:14, where God promises to hear and heal the land of those who are called by His name. The Israelites were known as God's people, a nation set apart for His purposes. This phrase indicates a profound loss of identity and purpose, as if they were no longer recognized as God's own. It highlights the spiritual desolation felt by the Israelites during the Babylonian exile, when they were removed from their land and temple, the center of their worship and identity. This also foreshadows the New Testament concept of being grafted into God's family through faith in Christ, as seen in Romans 11, where both Jews and Gentiles are called to be part of God's people.