Isaiah 66:7-14·~1 min

Rejoice with Jerusalem

Before labor pains fully arrive, Zion gives birth, and the prophet marvels that a nation can be born so suddenly, insisting that the God who brings to the point of delivery will not fail to complete His work. Therefore all who love Jerusalem are summoned to rejoice with her, to nurse and be satisfied from her consolations, because the LORD is about to spread peace to her like a river and comfort His people like a mother; when they see it, their hearts will rejoice and their bones flourish, while the hand of the LORD is made known to His servants and His fury to His enemies.

“⁷Before she was in labor, she gave birth; ⁸Who has heard of such as this? ⁹Shall I bring a baby to the point of birth and not deliver it?” ¹⁰Be glad for Jerusalem and rejoice over her, ¹¹so that you may nurse and be satisfied ¹²For this is what the LORD says: ¹³As a mother comforts her son, ¹⁴When you see, you will rejoice,

Section summaryThe next movement pictures Jerusalem giving birth with astonishing suddenness and asks who has ever seen such a thing, for God will not bring Zion to labor without also bringing forth the child. Those who love Jerusalem are called to rejoice with her, because the LORD extends peace, abundance, and maternal comfort through the city, strengthening His servants even as His indignation remains for His foes.

Role in the chapterThis section presents Zion as the mother of a suddenly born people and calls the faithful to share her consoling joy.