Isaiah 35: The Desert Shall Rejoice — Experiencing the Glory of Redemption

Executive Summary ✨

Isaiah 35 paints a breathtaking vision of hope and restoration. It’s a prophecy foretelling the return of God’s people to Zion, transformed and joyful. The barren desert blossoms, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the abundant grace poured out upon those who embrace the Lord. Physical and spiritual infirmities are healed, and a highway of holiness is established, leading the redeemed safely back to God. This chapter is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, God’s promise of redemption and everlasting joy is unwavering. Experiencing the Glory of Redemption isn’t merely a future event, but a present reality for those who walk in faith and righteousness. It’s about turning towards God for salvation and healing, embracing the transformative power of His grace, and walking the path of holiness He has prepared for us. Through repentance and a dedication to living a Christ-centered life, we can actively participate in the fulfillment of this beautiful prophecy.

Isaiah 35 offers a glimpse into the profound transformation awaiting God’s faithful. It speaks not only of physical restoration but also of a deep spiritual renewal that permeates the very essence of existence. It’s a reminder that even in the face of despair, God’s promise of joy and redemption remains steadfast, waiting to be embraced by those who seek Him.

Commentary Sections 📖

Isaiah 35:1 (KJV): The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. (NKJV): The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, And the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose.

The Hebrew word for “wilderness” (midbar) often refers to uncultivated land, a place of testing and hardship. The “solitary place” (tsiyyāh) emphasizes its desolation. The transformation described here is radical. The desert, a symbol of spiritual dryness and barrenness, will not merely bloom but “rejoice.” The rose, or possibly the crocus, a vibrant flower, signifies beauty and life emerging from what was once dead. This is not just a cosmetic change, but a deep, foundational shift in the environment itself.

St. Athanasius, in *Contra Gentes*, speaks of Christ transforming the barrenness of paganism: “Καὶ γὰρ ἡ γῆ ἄγονός ἐστι, ἐὰν μὴ ἐργάτης ἐπισκέψηται αὐτήν· οὕτω καὶ ἡ ἀνθρωπότης ἀναξιοπαθοῦσα πρὸς θεὸν, ἕως ἂν λόγος τοῦ θεοῦ ἐπισκέψηται αὐτήν.” (“For the earth is barren unless a worker visits it; so also is humanity suffering unworthily towards God until the Word of God visits it.”) (Athanasius, *Contra Gentes* 35). This blossoming is the work of God’s grace, preparing the way for the return of His people and providing a hospitable environment for their spiritual flourishing.

Spiritual Application: Where in our lives is there a “wilderness”? Perhaps it’s a difficult relationship, a challenging work environment, or a personal struggle with sin. This verse offers hope that even in these barren places, God can bring forth beauty and joy. We should actively seek His presence in these areas, trusting that He can transform them into spaces of growth and flourishing. We can find healing and community through community building that is Christ-centered.

Isaiah 35:2 (KJV): It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God. (NKJV): It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, Even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, The excellence of Carmel and Sharon; They shall see the glory of the Lord, The excellency of our God.

This verse amplifies the transformation. The “glory of Lebanon,” known for its majestic cedar forests, and the “excellency of Carmel and Sharon,” fertile and beautiful coastal plains, are transferred to the desert. This signifies a complete reversal of fortunes. But the most important aspect is that the people “shall see the glory of the Lord.” The physical transformation is a manifestation of God’s presence and power, allowing them to experience Him in a tangible way.

St. Cyril of Alexandria connects this vision to the Incarnation, writing in his commentary on Isaiah: “Τὸ γὰρ ὄρος ὁ Κάρμηλος καὶ ὁ Σαρὼν ἐξεδόθησαν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, ὅτε ὁ Χριστὸς ἐπεδήμησεν ἐν σαρκὶ, καὶ ἐπλήρωσε τὴν γῆν γνώσεως τοῦ Κυρίου.” (“For Mount Carmel and Sharon were given to the wilderness, when Christ came in the flesh, and filled the earth with the knowledge of the Lord.”) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah* 35:2). The Incarnation, the Word made flesh, allows us to “see the glory of the Lord” in a way never before possible.

Spiritual Application: This verse challenges us to look beyond the surface and seek the glory of God in all things. Even in the midst of our own “deserts,” we can find His presence and experience His transforming power. It is through prayer, scripture, and the sacraments that we become attuned to His glory.

Isaiah 35:3-4 (KJV): Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you. (NKJV): Strengthen the weak hands, And make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, With the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”

The focus shifts to the people themselves. “Weak hands” and “feeble knees” represent physical and spiritual weakness. They are encouraged to “be strong, fear not.” The promise of God’s coming “with vengeance” is not necessarily a violent image but a declaration of His power to right wrongs and bring justice. He will “save you” – a complete deliverance from their present suffering.

St. Gregory of Nyssa, in *De Vita Moysis*, writes about the importance of inner strength: “Ὥσπερ γὰρ τὸ σῶμα ἐὰν ἀρρωστήσῃ, καὶ τῆς ψυχῆς ἡ ἐνέργεια ἀμβλύεται, οὕτως καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ ἐὰν νοσήσῃ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα συναποκάμνει.” (“For as the body, if it is sick, also the activity of the soul is blunted, so also the soul, if it is sick, also the body tires together.”) (Gregory of Nyssa, *De Vita Moysis* 2:87). We must cultivate both physical and spiritual strength to endure the challenges of life.

Spiritual Application: We are called to be encouragers, offering support to those who are struggling. This verse reminds us to offer not just empty platitudes but a genuine message of hope rooted in the promise of God’s presence and power. Moreover, we must cultivate inner strength through prayer and faith, becoming beacons of hope ourselves. When we have doubts, turning to the scriptures or to a spiritual guide is a great benefit.

Isaiah 35:5-6 (KJV): Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. (NKJV): Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, And the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then the lame shall leap like a deer, And the tongue of the mute sing. For waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, And streams in the desert.

This passage describes physical and spiritual healing. The healing of the blind, deaf, lame, and mute are not merely physical miracles but symbolic of spiritual restoration. The “waters” and “streams” represent the outpouring of God’s grace, bringing life and refreshment to the spiritually parched.

Origen, in his *Commentary on John*, connects these miracles to the transformative power of Christ: “Οὐκ ἐστι τοῦτο ἄλλο τι ἢ ἡ ἀλήθεια τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἡ φωτίζουσα τοὺς τυφλοὺς, καὶ ἀνοίγουσα τὰ ὦτα τῶν κωφῶν, καὶ λύουσα τὴν γλῶσσαν τῶν ἀλάλων.” (“This is nothing other than the truth of Christ, which illuminates the blind, and opens the ears of the deaf, and loosens the tongue of the mute.”) (Origen, *Commentary on John* 6:31). Christ’s truth brings light, understanding, and freedom of expression.

Spiritual Application: Consider the areas in your own life where you might be “blind,” “deaf,” “lame,” or “mute.” Are there spiritual truths you are unable to see? Do you struggle to hear God’s voice? Are you hindered from fully embracing your faith? This verse reminds us that God desires to heal us completely, both physically and spiritually. We must actively seek His healing through prayer, repentance, and a commitment to living a Christ-centered life.

Isaiah 35:7 (KJV): And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes. (NKJV): The parched ground shall become a pool, And the thirsty land springs of water; In the habitation of jackals, where each lay, There shall be grass with reeds and rushes.

The transformation continues, emphasizing the abundance of water and life where once there was only dryness and desolation. The “habitation of dragons” (or jackals) represents the former home of evil and destruction, now replaced with lush vegetation. This symbolizes the triumph of God’s goodness over evil.

St. Basil the Great connects this verse to the power of baptism in *On the Holy Spirit*: “Καὶ γὰρ τὸ ὕδωρ τὸ βαπτιστικόν, οὐκ ἁπλῶς ὕδωρ ἐστίν, ἀλλὰ πνεῦμα καὶ ὕδωρ, τὸ καθαῖρον ἡμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς ἁμαρτίας.” (“For the baptismal water is not simply water, but spirit and water, cleansing us from sin.”) (Basil the Great, *On the Holy Spirit* 15:36). Just as water transforms the desert, baptism cleanses us from sin and brings new life.

Spiritual Application: This verse is a reminder that God can transform even the most desolate and destructive aspects of our lives. Where have you allowed “dragons” or “jackals” to dwell? Are there areas in your life that are characterized by negativity, bitterness, or sin? God desires to replace these things with life and abundance. Allow Him to bring forth “springs of water” in your soul. Consider how you can proactively invite God’s transformative power into the spaces where negativity resides.

Isaiah 35:8-9 (KJV): And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there: (NKJV): A highway shall be there, and a road, And it shall be called the Highway of Holiness. The unclean shall not pass over it, But it shall be for others. Whoever walks the road, although a fool, Shall not go astray. No lion shall be there, Nor shall any ravenous beast go up on it; They shall not be found there. But the redeemed shall walk there,

This verse introduces “The way of holiness,” a clear and safe path for the redeemed. The “unclean” will not be able to travel on it, emphasizing the need for purity and righteousness. Even the “fools” – those who are simple and uneducated – will not go astray. The absence of “lions” and “ravenous beasts” signifies divine protection. This is a path specifically designed for God’s people to return to Him safely and securely.

St. Irenaeus, in *Against Heresies*, speaks of this “way” as Christ Himself: “Ὁ δὲ τρόπος τῆς ἀναβάσεως ἐστιν ὁ Ἰησοῦς Χριστός, δι’ οὗ ἀναβαίνομεν πρὸς τὸν πατέρα.” (“And the way of ascent is Jesus Christ, through whom we ascend to the Father.”) (Irenaeus, *Against Heresies* 4.34.1). Christ is the path to the Father; following Him is the “way of holiness.”

Spiritual Application: Are you actively walking on the “way of holiness”? This verse challenges us to examine our lives and ensure that we are living in accordance with God’s will. Are we striving for purity and righteousness? Are we seeking to follow Christ’s example? It also offers assurance that God will guide us and protect us as we walk this path. Even when we stumble, we can trust in His grace to lead us back to the right way. We can find this way of holiness in prayer and studying the Bible. Seek counsel when you need it!

Isaiah 35:10 (KJV): And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. (NKJV): The ransomed of the Lord shall return, And come to Zion with singing, With everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, And sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

The chapter culminates with the triumphant return of the “ransomed of the Lord” to Zion. They come “with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads,” a visible expression of their inner transformation. “Sorrow and sighing shall flee away” – a complete and permanent end to their suffering. This verse is a powerful declaration of God’s ultimate victory over evil and the fulfillment of His promise of eternal joy.

St. Augustine, in *The City of God*, connects this “Zion” to the heavenly Jerusalem: “Civitas Dei, quae est Hierusalem caelestis, ubi erit pax perpetua et gaudium sempiternum.” (“The City of God, which is the heavenly Jerusalem, where there will be perpetual peace and everlasting joy.”) (Augustine, *The City of God* 11.9). This joy is not merely temporary happiness but an eternal state of blessedness in the presence of God.

Spiritual Application: Keep your eyes fixed on the ultimate goal: the heavenly Zion, where sorrow and suffering will be no more. This verse is a reminder that our present trials are temporary. As we journey through life, let us cultivate an attitude of joy and thanksgiving, knowing that God has ransomed us and prepared a place for us in His eternal kingdom. Consider what actions in your life help keep you focused on God.

Subtopic: The Highway of Holiness 🛣️

The concept of the “Highway of Holiness” in Isaiah 35:8-9 is central to understanding the chapter’s message of redemption and restoration. It represents a clear, safe, and accessible path for God’s people to return to Him. Let’s explore key reflections on this pivotal concept:

• Accessibility for All: The promise that even “fools shall not err therein” highlights the inclusive nature of God’s grace. Salvation is not reserved for the intellectual elite but is offered to all who humbly seek Him.
• Protection from Evil: The absence of lions and ravenous beasts symbolizes the divine protection afforded to those who walk on this path. God shields His people from spiritual dangers and guides them safely toward their destination.
• Requires Purity: The exclusion of the “unclean” underscores the importance of striving for holiness in our lives. Walking on the “Highway of Holiness” requires a commitment to living in accordance with God’s will and turning away from sin.
• Christ as the Way: As St. Irenaeus pointed out, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of this “Highway.” Following His teachings and example is the surest way to remain on the path of holiness.
• Continuous Journey: Walking the “Highway of Holiness” is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of faith. It requires ongoing commitment, perseverance, and reliance on God’s grace.
• Eternal Destination: The “Highway of Holiness” ultimately leads to Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, where the redeemed will experience everlasting joy and peace in the presence of God.

FAQ ❓

Q: How can I practically apply the message of Isaiah 35 to my daily life?
A: Isaiah 35 calls us to cultivate hope and joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. Actively seek God’s presence in your life through prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers. Look for opportunities to bring healing and encouragement to those around you, and strive to live a life of holiness that reflects God’s transformative power.

Q: What does it mean to “strengthen the weak hands and confirm the feeble knees” (Isaiah 35:3)?
A: This verse calls for us to both nurture our own physical and spiritual well-being and to support others in their moments of weakness. Provide practical assistance, offer words of encouragement, and share the hope found in Christ. Remember that collective strength is essential for navigating the challenges of life.

Q: What is the significance of the desert blossoming like a rose?
A: The blossoming desert symbolizes the transformative power of God’s grace. It demonstrates that even in the most barren and desolate circumstances, God can bring forth new life, beauty, and abundance. This is not only physical, but also spiritual.

Q: How does Isaiah 35 connect to the Coptic Orthodox understanding of salvation?
A: Isaiah 35 aligns with the Coptic Orthodox belief in theosis, the process of becoming more like God through grace. The restoration and healing described in the chapter point towards the ultimate goal of union with God, where sorrow and suffering are replaced with everlasting joy. The imagery of baptism is reminiscent of the importance of the sacrament to become closer to God.

Conclusion ✨

Isaiah 35: Experiencing the Glory of Redemption offers a profound and comforting vision of God’s transformative power. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, His promise of restoration and everlasting joy remains unwavering. The blossoming desert, the healing of the infirm, and the “Highway of Holiness” all point towards a future where sorrow and suffering are replaced with unending peace and joy. This isn’t just a distant prophecy but a present reality available to all who seek Him. By walking in faith, striving for holiness, and offering encouragement to those around us, we can actively participate in the fulfillment of this beautiful promise. The key is recognizing Christ as the highway to holiness, turning towards Him in repentance, and dedicating our lives to walking in His light. Let the words of Isaiah 35 resonate within your heart, filling you with hope and inspiring you to live a life that reflects the glory of God’s redemption.

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Isaiah 35 Commentary: Discover the transformative power of redemption! Explore verse-by-verse analysis, Coptic Orthodox insights, and practical applications for experiencing everlasting joy.