Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Isaiah 31 - Human Power is Nothing

Isaiah continues to chastise the people for relying upon the human power of Egypt. The horses and chariots that appear to be powerful are still only manifestations of human power which is fickle and just flesh and blood. The power of God though, is wise, just, and forever. Rely upon God, return to Him, and true strength will be yours.

Isaiah 30b - This is the Path You Shall Take

Those who rely on wealth and run away afraid to the "protection" of those who appear powerful will suffer, as Isaiah told us in 30a. But those who rely on God and stay true to the values of the Torah will find themselves at peace. This is the right path, says the prophet, take this path and you will find peace 

Isaiah 30a - An Alliance with Oppression and Deceit

Isaiah once again reiterates the foreign policy that God wants. Don't ally yourselves with those nations whose values contradict the values that you stand for. Ultimately such alliances will only lead to shame and defeat.

Isaiah 29 - It's All in the Heart

Isaiah teaches us that redemption and true knowledge requires humility,  that God does not desire deeds without meaning, and that to understand wisdom, one needs to use his heart.

Isaiah 28b - God Tends His Farm

The scoffers laugh as Isaiah teaches them about Justice and Righteousness.  Look at is now! Who are the "leaders" of Jerusalem. Isaiah warns them to listen carefully. What you see now is not what will always be. God will build a tower based of justice and righteousness.  But His ways are strange,  difficult and impossible for us humans to understand.  Isaiah explains with a parable about a farmer.

Isaiah 28a - A Little Here and a Little There

Isaiah laments how the people just don't listen. They continue walking on the path of destruction and refuse to listen to the words of God. What is left for the prophet to do? He can only try a little lesson here and a little lesson there, and maybe someone will learn.

Isaiah 27 - God Destroys the Evil Sea Dragon

The evil nations and people are destroyed, the righteous come to Jerusalem and build a new world. On that day, we will see justice.

Isaiah 26b - Just Bring us Peace

The Jewish people have suffered so much in exile, but they still turn to God. We are tired, we have suffered, but it is as if nothing changes, just peace is all we ask. God reassures us, just wait in your homes, justice will come. 

Isaiah 26a - The Song of the Future

Isaiah describes the song of rejoicing that will be sung as the gates of Jerusalem will be opened for all the righteous nations to enter.  All who have been humbled and ready to learn God's message, all will be welcome in Jerusalem for God's feast.

Isaiah 25b - God's Feast

One day, God will host all of the nations of the world.  Sadness and death will be a thing of the past. Pure joy will reign, but the haughty and arrogant will not be invited.