Isaiah 51 - Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible

1, 2. In the past God made Israel a great nation from a single ancestor, and that wonderful growth should be an encouragement to the righteous remnant now to believe in their restoration.

Alone] RV 'when he was but one,' i.e. childless.

A law, etc.] through Israel, Jehovah purposes to reveal Himself to the nations (Isaiah 42:1).

4, 5. The people] RV 'peoples.'

The v. contrasts the certainty of God's purposes for His people with, the transitory character of the visible world.

My righteousness] i.e. as shown in faithfulness to My promises.

9-11. An appeal from Israel to Jehovah that He will show His power as of old at the exodus, that the exiles may return triumphantly to Zion.

Rahab] a symbolic name for Egypt, as in Isaiah 30:7 RV. Dragon] standing for Egypt (Psalms 74:13).

12-16. God assures His people of their speedy deliverance.

As if.. ready] RV 'when he maketh ready.'

Read, 'He that is bowed down shall speedily be loosed, and he shall not die in the pit, neither shall his bread fail.'

Divided, etc.] RV 'stirreth up the sea, that the waves thereof roar.' Jehovah rules in the world, and therefore has power to perform His promise.

While Isaiah 51:12. are spoken to the Jewish exiles, the parallel between this passage and Isaiah 49:2 suggests that the ideal Israel—Jehovah's Servant—is here addressed.

Hast drunk] The prostrate condition of Jerusalem under the wrath of Jehovah is set forth under the figure of one stupefied and reeling owing to a deep draught.

By whom] RV 'how.'

A wild bull] RV 'an antelope': the figure denotes helplessness.

21-23. Jehovah's wrath is now to be turned against Jerusalem's oppressors.

The Hope of speedy Return for the Exiles

Isaiah 51:1-16. Encouragement from consideration of the past. Jehovah's purpose for His people is sure. Prayer for deliverance (based on the deliverance of the exodus). Jehovah in response reassures His people.

17-23. The divine wrath, which was upon Jerusalem, shall be turned against her oppressors.

Isaiah 52:1-6. The glorious change in Zion's fortune.

7-12. The deliverance of the exiles imminent.