The Book of Isaiah is a prophetic treasure in the Old Testament. In this post, I’ll be providing the book of Isaiah summary by chapter, covering all the key points in each chapter. So, let’s get started!
Read: Summary of the book of Song of Solomon chapter by chapter
Table of Contents
The Book of Isaiah Summary by Chapter
Chapter 1 – A Call to Repentance
In the opening chapter, Isaiah vividly paints the rebellion of the nation of Judah. The Lord speaks through him, calling out the nation’s sins and urging them to repent. The people’s offerings are rejected as they are not coupled with justice and righteousness. God promises restoration and redemption for those who turn back to him, but also warns of destruction for the wicked.
Chapter 2 – The Mountain of the Lord
Isaiah portrays a future where God’s house is established in Jerusalem, and nations stream to it for wisdom and guidance. People turn from idolatry and war, embracing peace and righteousness. This is contrasted with a day of judgment for the proud and lofty, where they will be humbled and their idols abandoned.
Chapter 3 – Judah’s Leadership Judged
God announces the removal of Judah’s leadership, which leads to chaos and disorder. The young and inexperienced take over, and people are oppressed. The Lord holds a courtroom scene against the leaders and the people, specifically the women, who are accused of pride and luxury while ignoring the suffering around them.
Chapter 4 – The Branch of the Lord
Isaiah speaks of a future time, symbolized by the “Branch of the Lord,” where the survivors in Zion are holy. The Lord creates a shelter for Jerusalem, protecting it by day and providing light by night. This chapter emphasizes cleansing and protection for the redeemed.
Chapter 5 – The Vineyard’s Song
Isaiah sings a song about a vineyard that, despite the owner’s care, produces bad fruit. The vineyard represents Israel and Judah, and the bad fruit is their injustice and unrighteousness. The chapter ends with six woes against various sins and a prophecy of an army that will execute God’s wrath.
Chapter 6 – Isaiah’s Vision and Commission
This chapter narrates Isaiah’s vision of the Lord in the temple. Isaiah feels unworthy, but a seraphim cleanses his lips with a coal. God commissions Isaiah to deliver a message to the people, but he’s told they will not listen. It’s prophesied that Judah will eventually be destroyed, but a remnant will remain.
Chapter 7 – The Sign of Immanuel
King Ahaz is terrified by the threat of invasion. Isaiah delivers a message of reassurance from the Lord, telling Ahaz to ask for a sign. Ahaz refuses, so God himself gives a sign: A virgin will conceive and bear a son named Immanuel. This is to show that God is with His people.
Chapter 8 – Assyria, the Lord’s Instrument
Isaiah is instructed to write on a scroll and name his son Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz as a sign that Assyria will swiftly plunder Syria and Israel. The chapter speaks of people rejecting God’s gentle waters for the mighty flood of the King of Assyria, who will overflow his banks. There’s also a warning against consulting mediums, urging reliance on God’s law and testimony.
Chapter 9 – The Coming of the Prince of Peace
This chapter starts with the promise that those who walked in darkness will see a great light. It prophesies the coming of a child who will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His reign will be just and everlasting. The chapter also includes God’s anger against Israel, and the judgment that follows through Assyria.
Chapter 10 – The Punishment and Restoration of Israel
God’s judgment against Israel continues with the imagery of Assyria as His tool. The Assyrians, however, become prideful, thinking they achieved success on their own. God then promises to punish Assyria. Additionally, a remnant of Israel will return, and God’s people will depend not on human might, but on the Lord.
Chapter 11 – The Reign of Jesse’s Offspring
This chapter features a shoot coming from the stump of Jesse, symbolizing a righteous ruler. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him, and he will establish a peaceful kingdom. Predators and prey will live together harmoniously. The chapter concludes with the gathering of Israel from exile and the uniting of Ephraim and Judah.
Chapter 12 – A Song of Thanksgiving
Chapter 12 is a joyful song of thanksgiving and praise. The people are encouraged to thank the Lord, proclaim his deeds among the nations, and exalt His name. The chapter is imbued with themes of trust, salvation, and the recognition of the Holy One of Israel as the source of strength and song.
Chapter 13 – Oracle Concerning Babylon
Isaiah pronounces an oracle concerning Babylon. The chapter describes a day of wrath and judgment where God will punish the world for its evil and the wicked for their sins. Babylon, which was at the height of power, is prophesied to fall and become desolate.
Chapter 14 – Fall of the King of Babylon
The chapter begins with a promise of Israel’s restoration and their return to their land. It then transitions into a taunt against the King of Babylon, who is brought down to the grave. The famous passage where Lucifer is mentioned as the morning star fallen from heaven is also found here. The chapter concludes with an oracle against Assyria.
Chapter 15 – Oracle Concerning Moab
In Chapter 15, Isaiah delivers an oracle concerning Moab. The chapter portrays Moab’s utter devastation and ruin in just one night. Cities are destroyed, and there is widespread mourning and lamentation. The people shave their heads and beards in grief, and the streets and rooftops are filled with cries of despair.
Chapter 16 – Moab’s Appeal for Mercy
This chapter continues the oracle concerning Moab. The Moabites are described as sending lambs and appealing for protection. They are instructed to execute justice and offer shelter to the outcasts. However, Moab’s pride is highlighted, and Isaiah prophesies that Moab’s wailing will be heard far and wide when its destruction comes.
Chapter 17 – Oracle Concerning Damascus and Ephraim
The oracle in Chapter 17 concerns Damascus and Ephraim. Damascus is doomed to be reduced to ruins. Meanwhile, Ephraim will face a similar fate, with its glory fading and fortresses destroyed. The chapter ends with an imagery of armies being swept away like chaff, symbolizing the transient nature of those who forget God.
Chapter 18 – Oracle Concerning Cush
Chapter 18 features an oracle concerning the land of Cush. Isaiah speaks of a nation marked by rivers and whirring wings. God will cut down and prune the nation, and its people will be left for the birds and wild animals. Ultimately, they will bring gifts to the Lord of hosts in Mount Zion.
Chapter 19 – Oracle Concerning Egypt
This chapter presents an oracle concerning Egypt. Egypt is depicted as being in turmoil and civil strife. The Nile will dry up, bringing economic calamity. The idols of Egypt will tremble, and the Egyptians will be in despair. However, it ends with a promise of Egypt turning to the Lord, and God healing them. They, along with Assyria and Israel, will be a blessing on the earth.
Chapter 20 – Sign Against Egypt and Cush
In Chapter 20, God instructs Isaiah to remove his sackcloth and sandals as a sign against Egypt and Cush. For three years, he goes about barefoot and naked, symbolizing how Egypt and Cush will be led away stripped and barefoot by the Assyrians, showing that they are not reliable allies.
Chapter 21 – Oracles Concerning Babylon, Edom, and Arabia
This chapter contains three oracles concerning Babylon, Edom, and Arabia. Babylon is portrayed with imagery of a storm, indicating its downfall. Edom is called to attention, as if a watchman is waiting for the morning. Lastly, Arabia is described as a place where caravans will be in distress and will meet their end.
Chapter 22 – Oracle Concerning Jerusalem
Jerusalem is in the spotlight in Chapter 22. The city is portrayed in turmoil, with people fleeing to the rooftops. The Lord calls them to weeping and mourning, but they engage in revelry. The chapter also mentions Shebna, who is rebuked for his pride, and Eliakim, who will replace him.
Chapter 23 – Oracle Concerning Tyre
Chapter 23 carries an oracle concerning Tyre. The city, known for its trade and wealth, is depicted as being silenced and devastated. Its merchants, once honored, are brought to ruin. After 70 years, Tyre will be restored, but its profits and wages will be dedicated to the Lord.
Chapter 24 – Judgment on the Earth
In Chapter 24, Isaiah portrays a bleak image of the entire earth being devastated and laid waste due to its inhabitants’ transgressions. The earth mourns and withers, and people are scattered. Amidst the destruction, there are songs of praise from the ends of the earth, but the chapter ends with the treacherous nature of mankind.
Chapter 25 – Praise for God’s Wondrous Works
This chapter is a song of praise to God for His judgments and salvation. The Lord is celebrated for being a refuge to the needy and for swallowing up death forever. There is joy as God wipes away tears, and a feast is described on the mountain of the Lord.
Chapter 26 – A Song of Trust in God’s Protection
Chapter 26 is another song, this time expressing steadfast trust in God. It speaks of a strong city, with salvation as its walls. The Lord is praised for humbling the lofty city and for His righteous judgments. The chapter ends with an expression of longing for the Lord’s coming and the resurrection of the dead.
Chapter 27 – The Redemption of Israel
In Chapter 27, the Lord is described as punishing Leviathan, the serpent. Israel is likened to a vineyard that the Lord guards and protects. The chapter speaks of Jacob taking root and filling the world with fruit. It ends with a prophecy of Israel being gathered one by one to worship the Lord in Jerusalem.
Chapter 28 – Judgment on Ephraim and Jerusalem
This chapter begins with a woe to Ephraim for its pride and drunkenness, which leads to its downfall. Isaiah then rebukes the leaders in Jerusalem, who also revel in drunkenness. They mock the prophet’s teaching, but Isaiah warns them that God will communicate through foreign lips, and their covenant with death will be annulled.
Chapter 29 – Woe to David’s City
Chapter 29 starts with a woe to David’s city, Ariel. It’s under siege and brought low, but the Lord will suddenly and fiercely fight against its enemies like a lion. There’s a portrayal of spiritual blindness among the people, but also a promise of the restoration of wisdom and understanding among the meek and poor.
Chapter 30 – The Futility of Reliance on Egypt
In Chapter 30, Isaiah reproaches the people for seeking help from Egypt instead of the Lord. The Egyptians are described as utterly unreliable. The people refuse to listen to the prophets and rely on oppression and deceit. However, the Lord is still gracious and promises healing, guidance, and abundant harvests for those who turn back to Him.
Chapter 31 – Woe to Those Who Rely on Egypt
Chapter 31 pronounces woe to those who rely on Egypt and its horses and chariots, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel. God’s might is compared to a lion, and it’s declared that He will protect Jerusalem. The chapter ends with a call for the people to turn from idols and a prophecy that Assyria will fall by a sword not wielded by man.
Chapter 32 – The Righteous King
This chapter speaks of a righteous king and princes who will rule with justice. It talks of a time of peace and security, where the Spirit is poured out, and justice and righteousness prevail. However, before this, there is a period of complacency among the women, who are called to mourning for the desolation that will come before the time of prosperity.
Chapter 33 – A Prayer for Deliverance
Isaiah begins Chapter 33 with a woe to the destroyer and betrayer, likely referring to Assyria. The chapter is also a prayer for deliverance, and it describes the Lord as exalted, who fills Zion with justice and righteousness. It concludes with a portrayal of a time when the people will see the King in His beauty and live in a peaceful and secure land.
Chapter 34 – Judgment Against the Nations
Chapter 34 calls the nations to hear the judgment of God. Edom is particularly highlighted as the place where the Lord’s wrath is poured out. The land will be desolate, and its streams turned into pitch. The chapter describes this judgment with vivid and dark imagery, depicting a complete and utter devastation.
Chapter 35 – The Joy of the Redeemed
In contrast to the previous chapter, Chapter 35 is a song of joy for the redeemed. The desert will rejoice and blossom, and the people will see the glory of the Lord. There’s an encouragement for the fearful, as God will come with vengeance and salvation. A highway called the Way of Holiness will be established, and the ransomed of the Lord will enter Zion with singing and everlasting joy.
Chapter 36 – Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem
Chapter 36 is a historical narrative where Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, sends his field commander to Jerusalem to demand its surrender. The commander mocks King Hezekiah and the God of Israel, claiming that no god has been able to stand against Assyria, and neither will the Lord.
Chapter 37 – Hezekiah’s Prayer
King Hezekiah, upon hearing the words of Sennacherib’s commander, tears his clothes and prays to the Lord in the temple. Isaiah sends a message to Hezekiah, assuring him that God has heard his prayer and will defend the city. Sennacherib sends a letter again blaspheming God. Hezekiah prays, and Isaiah prophesies that Sennacherib will fall. An angel of the Lord then strikes down 185,000 in the Assyrian camp, and Sennacherib is later killed by his sons.
Chapter 38 – Hezekiah’s Illness and Recovery
In Chapter 38, King Hezekiah becomes ill and is at the point of death. Isaiah tells him to set his house in order. Hezekiah prays, and God adds fifteen years to his life. Hezekiah asks for a sign, and God makes the shadow on the steps of Ahaz go backward. Hezekiah then writes a song of praise.
Chapter 39 – Envoys from Babylon
In Chapter 39, envoys from Babylon come to visit King Hezekiah. Hezekiah shows them all his treasure house. Isaiah then questions Hezekiah about the envoys and prophecies that all the treasures and some of his descendants will be taken to Babylon.
Chapter 40 – Comfort for God’s People
Chapter 40 begins the second part of the book of Isaiah. It starts with the words “Comfort, comfort my people,” and speaks of the voice in the wilderness preparing the way of the Lord. The chapter emphasizes the greatness of God as the Creator and the one who brings princes to nothing. It concludes with the famous words that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength and mount up with wings like eagles.
Chapter 41 – The Lord’s Assurance to Israel
God challenges the idols to bring forth their case in Chapter 41. The Lord reassures Israel that He has chosen them and not to fear, for He is with them. God promises to strengthen and uphold them. The chapter ends with the Lord challenging the idols again, highlighting their worthlessness compared to His mighty acts.
Chapter 42 – The Lord’s Chosen Servant
This chapter introduces the Lord’s servant, who will bring forth justice to the nations. He is described as gentle and faithful. The Lord speaks of His commitment to righteousness and His covenant with the people. Israel is reproved for its blindness and deafness. God’s frustration at His people’s plundering and captivity due to their disobedience is expressed.
Chapter 43 – Israel’s Only Savior
God declares that He has redeemed Israel and calls them by name in Chapter 43. He assures them of His presence through waters and fires. The Lord declares Himself as the only Savior, and that He will gather His people from the ends of the earth. He again points out Israel’s failure to call upon Him, and yet promises to blot out their transgressions for His own sake.
Chapter 44 – The Lord is the Only God
Chapter 44 continues with the Lord encouraging Israel. He promises to pour out His Spirit on their descendants. The folly of idolatry is described in detail, and the Lord reaffirms that He is the only God. The chapter ends with the Lord’s call to Cyrus, who will fulfill His purpose.
Chapter 45 – Cyrus, God’s Instrument
The Lord addresses Cyrus directly, calling him His anointed and promising him victory in Chapter 45. God will use Cyrus for the sake of Israel. The chapter emphasizes the Lord as the Creator and the only God. It calls for the nations to turn to God for salvation, as there is no other god.
Chapter 46 – The Idols of Babylon
In Chapter 46, the gods of Babylon are described as burdens that must be carried. In contrast, the Lord carries His people and saves them. The Lord declares the end from the beginning and will accomplish His purpose. The chapter ends with a call to the wicked to repent.
Chapter 47 – The Fall of Babylon
Chapter 47 is an oracle against Babylon. The city is portrayed as a virgin daughter who will be brought down to the ground. Despite her enchantments and sorceries, she will not be able to avert disaster. The Lord will take vengeance on Babylon for its evil deeds and arrogance.
Chapter 48 – Israel’s Stubbornness
In Chapter 48, the Lord addresses Israel’s stubbornness and their claim to be holy while not acting in accordance. The Lord explains that He declared events before they happened so that Israel couldn’t attribute them to idols. He delays His wrath for His name’s sake and refines Israel through affliction. The chapter ends with a call to leave Babylon and trust in the Lord.
Chapter 49 – The Servant’s Mission
This chapter reintroduces the Servant of the Lord. The Servant speaks of being called before birth and will be a light to the nations. The Lord reassures the Servant that He is not forgotten. Zion feels forsaken, but the Lord promises to restore and make it glorious, gathering its people from all around the world.
Chapter 50 – The Servant’s Obedience
In Chapter 50, the Servant speaks of his obedience despite facing suffering. He remains confident that God will help him. The chapter transitions into a call to trust in the Lord and warns against relying on one’s own light, which leads to torment.
Chapter 51 – The Lord’s Salvation Will Last Forever
Chapter 51 calls for those who seek righteousness to listen to the Lord. It speaks of God’s power as the Creator and His ability to bring salvation and comfort. The Lord stirs up His people to awake and promises that His salvation will last forever, while the world and its inhabitants will wither.
Chapter 52 – Zion’s New Clothes
In this chapter, Zion is called to awake and put on new clothes, symbolizing strength and splendor. The Lord assures that He will redeem Zion without money. It also talks about the beautiful feet of those who bring good news. The chapter ends by describing the disfigurement and subsequent exaltation of the Servant of the Lord.
Chapter 53 – The Suffering Servant
Chapter 53 is one of the most famous chapters in Isaiah, depicting the Suffering Servant. It portrays a Servant who is despised, rejected, and bears the sins and sorrows of many. He is described as a lamb led to slaughter. Through His suffering, the Servant justifies many and makes intercession for their transgressions.
Chapter 54 – The Future Glory of Zion
In Chapter 54, the Lord speaks to Zion as a barren woman who will have many children. He promises to rebuild Zion with precious stones. There is an assurance of everlasting kindness and peace. The Lord will be Zion’s protector, and no weapon formed against it will prosper.
Chapter 55 – Invitation to the Thirsty
Chapter 55 is an invitation to the thirsty to come to the waters and buy food without money. The Lord calls for seeking Him while He may be found. His thoughts and ways are higher than man’s. The word of the Lord is likened to rain and snow that achieve His purpose. The chapter ends with a promise of joy and peace for the redeemed.
Chapter 56 – Salvation for All Nations
In Chapter 56, the Lord calls for maintaining justice and keeping the Sabbath. Eunuchs and foreigners who keep His commandments are assured a place in His house, a house of prayer for all nations. The chapter also condemns Israel’s leaders who are described as blind watchmen.
Chapter 57 – Israel’s Idolatry Condemned
In Chapter 57, the Lord addresses the idolatrous practices of Israel. The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart. The people are accused of worshipping idols and engaging in detestable practices. Despite this, the Lord promises to heal and comfort those who are contrite and humble in spirit.
Chapter 58 – True and False Fasting
Chapter 58 focuses on fasting. The Lord criticizes the people’s false fasting that lacks sincerity and is filled with strife. He outlines what true fasting is – to loose the chains of injustice, feed the hungry, and shelter the homeless. The Lord promises blessings and healing for those who observe true fasting.
Chapter 59 – Sin, Confession, and Redemption
This chapter speaks of the Lord’s ability to save, but sin separates people from Him. It describes the sins of the people, including violence and lies. The Lord sees there is no justice and is appalled. He puts on righteousness and vengeance as garments and promises to repay His enemies and redeem those who repent.
Chapter 60 – The Glory of Zion
In Chapter 60, a bright and glorious future for Zion is depicted. The Lord’s glory will rise upon Zion, and nations will come to its light. The wealth of nations will be brought to Zion, and its gates will always be open. The Lord will be Zion’s everlasting light, and its days of sorrow will end.
Chapter 61 – The Year of the Lord’s Favor
Chapter 61 portrays the Servant of the Lord as one who is anointed to bring good news to the poor and proclaim freedom for captives. It speaks of the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance. The Servant is to comfort all who mourn and bestow a crown of beauty instead of ashes. The chapter also talks about the everlasting covenant and the renown of God’s people.
Chapter 62 – Zion’s New Name
The Lord’s love for Zion is evident in Chapter 62. He will not remain silent until Zion’s righteousness shines. Zion will be called by a new name, and its land will be married to the Lord. Watchmen are set upon the walls and are called to give the Lord no rest until He establishes Jerusalem and makes it a praise in the earth.
Chapter 63 – God’s Day of Vengeance and Redemption
Chapter 63 begins with a portrayal of the Lord coming from Edom with garments stained red from judgment. The Lord speaks of a day of vengeance and year of redemption. A prayer of confession follows, recounting God’s mercies, but also acknowledging that the people have strayed from Him.
Chapter 64 – A Prayer for Mercy
This chapter continues the prayer, asking the Lord to rend the heavens and come down. It acknowledges that all are unclean and their righteous acts are like filthy rags. The prayer pleads for the Lord not to remember their sins forever and to look upon His people.
Chapter 65 – Judgment and Salvation
In Chapter 65, the Lord responds to the prayer. He speaks of reaching out to a nation that did not call on Him. The Lord addresses the rebellion and idolatry of the people. He also speaks of creating new heavens and a new earth, where joy and gladness will prevail and sorrow and mourning will be no more.
Chapter 66 – Rejoice with Jerusalem
In the final chapter, Chapter 66, the Lord speaks about the heaven being His throne and the earth His footstool. He looks to those who are humble and contrite in spirit. The Lord addresses the meaningless religious rituals of the wicked. He promises to execute judgment with fire and sword. The chapter speaks of the restoration and glory of Jerusalem, which will be a rejoicing for all. The Lord assures that He will gather all nations to see His glory. The book ends with a portrayal of the new heavens and new earth and the final judgment of the wicked.
This concludes the summary of the Book of Isaiah chapter by chapter.
(Also Read: The Book of Jeremiah Summary by Chapter)
Through vivid imagery and prophetic words, the book unveils the heart of God for His people and the nations. From warnings and judgments to promises of restoration and hope, the Book of Isaiah is a testament to God’s commitment to His creation.
