John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - Isaiah 54:1-17
1. Married wife] referring to the days of Jerusalem’s prosperity. 2. The figure is that of a tent which must be enlarged to take in increasing numbers (Isaiah 33:20). The ultimate fulfilment is seen in the extension of the religion of Zion so as to embrace the nations in the Christian dispensation. 3. Break forth] RV ’spread abroad.’ Make the desolate cities, etc.] (cp. Isaiah 49:8; Isaiah 58:12; Isaiah 61:4) i.e. reoccupy cities which had suffered from Babylonian invasions.4. Shame of thy... read more
John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - Isaiah 54:1-8
Renewed Promises of RestorationIsaiah 54:1-6. Zion addressed as a woman whose period of barrenness and affliction is over; the desolation and reproach of the exile are to be things of the past. 7-10. From His promise of mercy to Zion Jehovah will not go back. 11-17. The re-establishment of the city. Its security from enemies.Isaiah 55:1-7. The prophet invites mankind to those blessings which Jehovah has covenanted; and exhorts to putaway obstacles to their enjoyment. 8-13. Jehovah’s promise is... read more