Jan 23 2007
INTRODUCTION TO ISAIAH
THE DIVINE LAMP: INTRODUCTION TO ISAIAH
I wont be going into introductions to the book but, because these are important and aid in understanding the text, I have provided some links.
Father Mitch Pacwa. This is an audio program. Show 30 contains an intro to the prophet. Shows 30-51 give commentary on Isaiah chapters 1-39. Real Player is required to listen to these programs and can be downloaded and used for free here.
A good protestant introduction.
Another Protestant intro (brief, 3 pages)
Isaiah: His Life and Times. Protestant. Rather dated. Part of the Internet Arhive.
Biblical Dictionary. Non-Catholic. Dated.
Like all the books of the writing prophets (except Daniel) this book opens with a superscription (vs 1). The purpose of the superscription is to introduce us to the prophet and to the time period in which his ministry took place. This latter aspect of the verse is done by namoing the monarchs whor occupied the throne of the Southern Kingdom.
(Note: Fro a proper understanding of the historical situation of the pre-exilic prophets it is important to keep in mind that the Davidic Kingdom split in two after the death of Solomon. If you are unfamiliar with the history and theology of this event please read the following:
The law of the king (Deuteronomy 17:14-20).
The rise and fall of Solomon (1 Kings 11:1-43. 1 Kings 12:1-33).
The division of the kingdom and the “original sin” of the new Northern kingdom (1 KIngs 12:1-33. 1 Kings 13:1-34).
Also, read this historical summary (protestant).
