Background on the Book of Isaiah

Rachelle Dawson
Author: Isaiah. This fact is made clear by the use of first-person pronouns in passages such as chapter 6 and chapter 8.

Date: The visions came during the reigns of the kings Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (Isa. 1:1). The Hebrew nation had long ago split into two kingdoms, the Northern Kingdom commonly called Israel, and the Southern Kingdom commonly called Judah. The kings listed in Isaiah's introduction were Southern kings. See the table for a summary of their reigns.

Original Audience: Primarily Judah, evidenced by the fact that most of his references to time and historical events deal with Jerusalem, Judah, and Southern kings. However, his visions did also concern Israel (Isa. 1:1), and so Israel must be considered part of his intended audience. Both kingdoms were on the verge of captivity because of their rebellion and disobedience. Israel went into captivity during Isaiah's ministry. Judah went into exile roughly 110 years after Hezekiah's reign.

Published by Rachelle Dawson

As a freelance writer and editor, I've published articles, business copy, reviews. I've edited instructional articles and novels. In my spare time, my husband and I camp, pray together, and haggle over the s...  View profile

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  • Rachelle Dawson6/25/2008

    Correction: Isaiah 1:1 does not contain a reference to Israel (the Northern Kingdom). However, other passages in Isaiah do. For examples, please see 9:8-12 and chapter 28. Thanks.

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