'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

Isaiah's tone becomes warm as he looks beyond  the coming tempest to a more peaceful time. He writes:  ["The sprouting  (sprout)  of Jehovah" will come to be for decoration and for glory, and the fruitage of the land will be something to be proud of and something beautiful  for those of Israel who have escaped." -Isaiah 4:2.

Isaiah here speaks of restoration.  The Hebrew noun rendered "sprout" refers to 'that which springs up, a shoot, a branch.'  It is associated with prosperity, in crease, and blessings from Jehovah.  Isaiah thus paints a picture of hope-the approaching desolation will not last forever.  With Jehovah's blessing, the once-prosperous land of Judah will again bring forth abundant fruitage. -Leviticus 26:3-5.

Isaiah uses vivid terms to describe the grandeur of  transformation that lies ahead.  The sprouting of Jehovah will "be for decoration and for glory."  the word "decoration" calls to mind the beauty of the Promised Land when Jehovah gave it to Israel centuries earlier.  It was so beautiful that  it was considered  "the decoration ["jewel," New American Bible] of all the lands."  (Ezekiel 20:6) Isaiah's words thus assure the people that the land of Judah will be restored to its former glory and beauty.  Indeed, it will be like a crowning jewel on the earth. 

Who, though, will be on hand to enjoy the restored beauty of the land?  "Those of Israel who have escaped,"  writes Isaiah.  Yes, some will survive the humiliating destruction previously foretold.  (Isaiah 3:25, 26)  A remnant of the survivors will return to Judah and share in  its restoration. For these returnees-"the escaped one"-the abundant produce of their restored land will become "something to be proud of and something beautiful."  (Isaiah 4:2) The humiliation of desolation will give way to a renewed sense of pride. 

Next time: Conclusion of 'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind