Isaiah 22-24

Ancient Jerusalem. Click to enlarge.

Isaiah 22-24 Study Guide – to be discussed January 5 Happy Holidays!
Day 1: Read Isaiah 22:1-7 (with footnotes 1a, 2a) and chapter heading
1. Read chapter heading and the footnote to Isaiah 22:1a. Against whom is the burden in Isaiah 22 directed? How is the place addressed by this burden described in Isaiah 22:1 and 22:5? What might this mean?


2. Which phrases in Isaiah 22:1-2 imply an unconcerned city, prone to party instead of prepare?



Note: Elam, current NW Iran, was famed for her archers (see also Jeremiah 49:34-39). Kir was a city on the main road between Elam and Babylon. Elam would eventually, with the Persians and the Medes, destroy Babylon. Cyrus was a king in Elam.
3. Isaiah 22:6 may indicate Judah was hopeful the invading Babylonians would be defeated by Elam and Kir before they reached Jerusalem. What did Isaiah say about these hopes? (Hint: See Isaiah 22:4-5 and 7.)



BONUS: From Isaiah 22:5, List three things it would be “a day of” when Babylon attacked.



Day 2: Read Isaiah 22:8-14 (with footnotes 8a, 9a, 11b, 12a, 13a), 2 Nephi 28:8
4. Which phrases from Isaiah 22:8-9 indicate the defenses of Jerusalem were weak and inadequate?



5. Did the Lord really want Judah to weep, morn, and go bald (v.12)? What does the Lord want from his people? (See also footnote 12a.)


6. Read 2 Nephi 28:8 with Isaiah 22:13-14. What was the problem with Judah?


Day 3: Read Isaiah 22:15-25 (with footnotes 15a, 18a, 20a), Revelation 3:7, Isaiah 9:6-7
7. What can we discern from these verses about the man Shebna, to whom Isaiah 22:15-19 was directed? What will happen to Shebna?


8. Eliakim was a real person in Jerusalem. According to the footnote to Isaiah 22:20a, who did Eliakim represent? What did his name mean?



9. Read Isaiah 22:21-25 with Revelation 3:7 and Isaiah 9:6-7. What does the “key of the house of David” represent?



BONUS: Why might the key be on Eliakim’s shoulder?



Day 4: Read Isaiah 23:1-9 (with footnotes 1a,c, 2a, 3a, 5a, 8b,c), Bible Dictionary entry, “Phoenicia”
10. Tyre was located within Asher territory in Israel, but was a Phoenician city. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Phoenicia.” List distinguishing characteristics of Phoenicians.



11. Why would Sidon (Zidon) and Egypt mourn the downfall of Tyre?


12. What do you think this phrase in Isaiah 23:7 means: “… her own feet shall carry her afar off to sojourn”? How do our own feet carry us afar off sometimes?



Day 5: Read Isaiah 23:10-18 (with footnotes 11a, 17a, 18a)
13. Isaiah 23:10-12 indicates Tyre, her citizens and merchants, are ruined. How does the Lord “shake” kingdoms of the world today that are materialistically corrupt?



14. Isaiah 23:13 offers the destruction of Babylon at the hands of the Assyrians as an example of what will happen in Tyre. Verses 15-16 call Tyre a “harlot.” Why might a consumer-driven society be compared to a harlot?


15. What dos the footnote to Isaiah 23:8a tell you about the future of Tyre?


Day 6: Read Isaiah 24:1-12 (with footnotes 1c, 2b, 4b, 8a), chapter heading, Alma 41:10
Note: This chapter emphasizes the consequences of wickedness.
16. Isaiah 24:1-3 offers an example of the Hebrew poetry form called “chiasmus” or inverted parallelism. “The Lord” and “empty”/”emptied” in verses 1 and 3 frame the central theme in Isaiah 24:2. According to verse 2, who is accountable to the Lord for their own wicked acts? Is anyone exempt?


17. Give three reasons for the decline and destruction of the world from Isaiah 24:5.


18. Isaiah paints a vivid picture of the results of wickedness in Isaiah 24:7-12. List the phrases from these verses that indicate “the party’s over.” (See also Alma 41:10.)



Day 7: Read Isaiah 24:13-23 (with footnotes 13a, 14a, 15a, 16a,b, 23c), D&C 49:23-28, D&C 88:86-87, D&C 133:49
19. Who will sing praises to the Lord after the devastations of the last days? (See footnotes 14a, 16b.)


20. Read Isaiah 24:19-20 with D&C 49:23-28 and D&C 88:86-87. Where can we find refuge in the last days?


21. Read D&C 133:49 with Isaiah 24:23. Why will the moon be “confounded” and the sun “ashamed” when the Lord reigns in his glory?

Isaiah 18-21

Isaiah 18-21 Study Guide – to be discussed December 8
Day 1: Read Isaiah 18:1-7 (with footnotes 1a,c, 2a,b), D&C 84:2, D&C 128:24
1. Joseph Fielding Smith said “… A correct translation [of Isaiah 18:1] would be, ‘Hail to the land in the shape of wings.’” What land might be described, and who are the “swift messengers” (v. 2)?


2. In reference to Isaiah 18:3, Victor Ludlow wrote, “Like the delicate balance of warmth and moisture needed to fully ripen grapes, God attends to the harvest of souls by providing the proper light (truth) and moisture (cleansing powers) to ensure the full development of each person.” Give one promise, one warning, and one command to the nations of the earth from Isaiah 18.



3. Read D&C 84:2 and D&C 128:24. What “present” (Isaiah 18:7) will be brought to the Lord in the latter days?


Day 2: Read Isaiah 19:1-19 (with footnotes 1a, 3a, 4a, 5a, 8a, 9a, 10a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Cloud”
4. Parley P. Pratt wrote in his popular hymn, “Once upon the cross he bowed; now his chariot is the cloud.” Isaiah 19:1 describes the Lord riding on a “swift cloud.” What does this tell you about the power of the Lord? (See also Bible Dictionary entry, “Cloud”)


5. List trials promised to the Egyptians in Isaiah 19:2-4. What is the common element in all these afflictions?


6. List trials promised in Isaiah 19:5-10. What do these problems have in common?



Day 3: Read Isaiah 19:11-17 (with footnotes 13b, 15a, 17a)
Note: “Zoan” was Tanis, Egypt’s capital 1100-600 BC. “Noph” was Memphis, an ancient capital of Northern Egypt. Therefore, Zoan and Noph both represent Egypt.
7. Why should government leaders be responsible for using wise counsel or making wise decisions? To whom should they look for direction if they have their constituents’ best interest at heart?


8. Use the footnote to Isaiah 19:15a to explain what the head, tail, branch and rush represent. What did Isaiah prophesy regarding the unemployment rate in Egypt?


9. According to footnote 17a, when will Judah be a terror to Egypt?


Day 4: Read Isaiah 19:18-25 (with footnotes 18a, 24a)
10. List promises to Egypt in Isaiah 19:18-22 that should give Egypt (and other nations of the world) hope.



11. According to the prophecy in Isaiah 19:24-25, what three countries will be allies “in that day”? Can you think of a time when this has been the case? How did the Lord describe his relationship with each country in Isaiah 19:25?


BONUS: How many times does the phrase, “in that day” appear in Isaiah 19:16-25? What day might be indicated?


12. How might Israel be a blessing to the nations around her?


Day 5: Read Isaiah 20:1-7 (with footnotes 1a, 2a, 5a)
Note: Isaiah 20 discusses events in ancient Egypt, not future events.
13. In what year was the prophecy recorded in chapter 20 given to Isaiah? (See footnote 1a.)


14. What phrase is repeated three times in Isaiah 20:2-4? What might this mean, physically and spiritually?



15. If Judah had hoped for military help from Egypt and Ethiopia during the Assyrian invasion, what was Isaiah’s bad news?


Day 6: Read Isaiah 21:1-10 (with footnotes 1a,b, 2b, 3a), Revelation 14:8-11
16. Read the chapter heading to Isaiah 21 and footnote 1a. Who or what did Isaiah describe as “the desert of the sea”?


17. List phrases in Isaiah 21:2-4 indicating the vision Isaiah saw was personally disturbing to him.



18. Jerusalem was finally destroyed by Babylon in 587 BC. Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians in 539-538 BC – the event described in Isaiah 21. One year later, in 537, Cyrus issued the decree allowing the Jews to return and rebuild Jerusalem and their temple. If Babylon represents the wicked world, how might the prophecy in Isaiah 21 apply to our day? (See also Revelation 14:8-11.)



Day 7: Read Isaiah 21:11-17 (with footnotes 11a,c, 12a 13a), Genesis 36:8
Notes: The word translated “prevented” in Isaiah 21:14 has the archaic meaning “met” or “went before.” In other words, Tema and Dedam would need to help refugees from Kedar. Seir is a mountain range southeast of the Dead Sea, associated with Edom, or Idumea. Mt. Seir usually represents worldliness, in contrast to Mt. Zion, which represents righteousness (see D&C 1:36). Darkness = sin, apostasy; morning = light, truth.
19. Read Genesis 36:8. From whom were the Edomites (Dumah) descended? About what were they warned in Isaiah 21:11-12? (See footnote 12a. Also, read Isaiah 21:11-12 as a dialogue between a man of Seir and Isaiah. Seir speaks in v. 11, Isaiah replies in v. 12.)


20. The burden against Arabia (Isaiah 21:13-17) includes messages to various tribes. From the institute manual: “Dedanim identifies the residents of Dedan, which is southeast of the gulf of Aqaba along the coast of the Red Sea; and Kedar is the region eastward from Mount Hermon that includes the area called Bashan...” How did the people of Tema and Dedan help the children of Kedar?


21. How can we prepare ourselves to give assistance to our neighbors, physically and spiritually?

Isaiah 15-17

Map of Moab and surrounds (click to enlarge)

Isaiah 15-17 – to be discussed December 1
Day 1: Read Isaiah 15:1-4 (with footnotes 1a, 2b) Bible Dictionary entry, “Moab” Bible Dictionary entry, “High Places”
1. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Moab.” From whom were these neighbors of Judah descended?


2. The phrase, “in the night,” is used twice in Isaiah 15:1 to describe how two Moabite cities would be laid waste. If “in the night” means suddenly, or without warning, how is the destruction of Moab a “type” of Christ’s Second Coming?


3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “High Places.” Why were the Moabites ripe for destruction?


BONUS: What are our “high places” today?


Day 2: Read Isaiah 15:5-9 (with footnotes 5b,c, 7a)
Note: The names in Isaiah 15:5-9 refer to cities and geographical landmarks in Moab. See a simple map of Moab on the class blog: http://ifestudyguides.blogspot.com.
4. What kind of destruction is described in Isaiah 15:4-5?*


5. What kind of destruction is described in Isaiah 15:6-7?


6. What would become of those who escaped the destructive forces in Moab?**


Day 3: Read Isaiah 16:1-5 (with footnotes 1a, 3a, 4a)
7. Using the footnote to Isaiah 16:1a, to whom would Moab appeal?


8. Find the river Arnon on map 10 in your Bible Appendix (C-6 through D-7). The Arnon was a major river and part of Moab’s northern border. Why were the daughters of Moab like “a wandering bird cast out of the nest”?


9. Read the footnotes to Isaiah 16:3a and 4a. Isaiah 16:3-5 contains Moab’s appeal to Judah for refuge. How might these verses foreshadow the pleas of the wicked during the destruction preceding the Lord’s Millennial reign?


Day 4: Read Isaiah 16:6-11 (with footnote 6a)
10. What was Judah’s reply to Moab’s appeal? List the sins of Moab from Isaiah 16:6.


11. Isaiah 16:7-11 is written using the Hebrew poetry form inverted parallelism, or chiasmus. Compare Isaiah 16:7-8 with Isaiah 16:9-11. List common phrases or concepts.


12. Regardless of the locations of all the Moabite sites listed in Isaiah 16:7-11, what is the overall feeling regarding the fate of Moab? If Moab represents pride and idol worship in the world, what is the message from the Lord through Isaiah?


Day 5: Read Isaiah 16:12-14, Amos 2:1-3
13. To whom would the Moabites turn for help in their distress? How much help would they find?


14. Read Amos 2:1-3, another burden of Moab. What do you think it means that Moab would die “with tumult… and with the sound of the trumpet”?


15. How long did the Moabites have before destruction (in the form of Assyrians) would arrive (v.14)?


Day 6: Read Isaiah 17:1-8 (with footnotes 1a, 3a, 6a, 7b), Bible Dictionary entry, “Damascus”
16. Damascus was the capital of Syria, a northern neighbor of Israel. What was to become of Syria during Isaiah’s lifetime? (See Bible Dictionary entry, “Damascus.”) Who was Syria’s ally? (See footnote 3a.)


17. From the institute manual: “Gleaning grapes” ( v. 6 ) are those few missed by the harvesters, and olives were harvested by shaking the branches, which always left a few scattered fruits in the topmost branches (see v. 6 ). Are these verses talking about fruit or people?


18. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Grove.” What was the big problem in Israel and Syria? From Isaiah 17:7, what would the devastations cause Israel to do? (See footnote 7b.)


BONUS: Read Genesis 49:22, Jacob’s blessing to Joseph (father of Ephraim). How might this blessing be reflected in Isaiah 17:6-7?


Day 7: Read Isaiah 17:9-14 (with footnotes 10a,e, 12a)
19. Isaiah 17:9-11 provides agricultural metaphors. The “strange slips” in v. 10 indicate Israel has forgotten Jehovah and instead grafted into their “pleasant plants” the false gods of their heathen neighbors. What kind of harvest might they expect?


20. Isaiah 17:12-14 contains another “burden” or message of doom to the Assyrian empire. What words or phrases from these verses describe the power of the Assyrian army?


21. What would happen to this powerful force, according to Isaiah 17:13-14? (Note: The “rolling thing” in v.13 describes a tumble weed.)

From the Institute Manual:
*(14-19) Isaiah 15:5 . What Was Meant by Moab Being a Heifer of Three Years Old? Isaiah recognized that Moab was a youthful, vibrant nation. “A three-year-old ox, is one that is still in all the freshness and fulness of its strength” (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:326). In spite of Moab’s vigor and strength, Isaiah foretold that powerful forces from the north countries would destroy her only three years hence (see Isaiah 16:14 ). This prophecy was fulfilled with the Assyrian invasion under Sennacherib (see Enrichment F ).
**(14-20) Isaiah 15:8–9 . Moab’s Destruction Was UniversalThe cry of destruction of Moab is universal, even beyond her borders to Eglaim (En-Eglaim) northwest of the Salt Sea. To show the extent of the tragedy that Moab would experience, Isaiah prophesied that the heart of the rich pastoral land around Dibon would have its waters (called Dimon) stained with the blood of the people. In other words, there would be widespread slaughter and destruction of the people, the enemy penetrating even the very heart of Moab. In the Hebrew text, the word translated “lion” is actually a single lion. Isaiah revealed that the relationship of Judah and Moab would change, for the “lion,” Judah, would come upon the remnant of Moab that was spared and make them her vassal.

Isaiah 13-14

Isaiah 13-14 Study Guide – to be discussed November 17
Day 1: Read Isaiah 13:1-5 (with footnotes 1b,c, 2a,c, 3a), D&C 133:1-16
1. Read the chapter heading for Isaiah 13. What great city or nation is the object of the prophesied destruction recorded in Isaiah 13? What does it represent on a broader scale?


2. Where is the ensign mentioned in Isaiah 13:2 to be raised? What group is being gathered? (See footnote 13:3a.)



3. What war are we fighting today? Who will win?



BONUS: Read D&C 133:1-16. What is the fastest way out of Babylon?


Day 2: Read Isaiah13:6-18 (with footnotes 11d, 14a,b, 15a, 16c), Bible Dictionary entry, “Ophir,” D&C 18:10-16, Bible Dictionary entry, “Media,” Bible Dictionary entry, “Persia”
4. Why will the wicked “howl” at Christ’s Second Coming?


5. Give two possible meanings for the phrase, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold…” (Isaiah 13:12). See also D&C 18:10-16.



6. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Media” and the Bible Dictionary entry, “Persia.” Who were the Medes? What would they do to Babylon in 538 BC?



Day 3: Read Isaiah 13:19-22 (with footnotes 19b, 21b, 22a,b), Bible Dictionary entry, “Babylon,” D&C 1:12-16, 2 Nephi 23:22
7. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Babylon” and D&C 1:12-16. Why is Babylon an appropriate “type” or example of the wicked world today?


8. Who did Isaiah say would inhabit the spectacular palaces of Babylon after its destruction?


9. Read 2 Nephi 23:22. What message of hope is added to Isaiah’s message of burden in Nephi’s record?


Day 4: Read Isaiah 14:1-3 (with footnote 2a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Cyrus”
10. Isaiah 14:1 mentions “strangers” who will join with Israel. Footnote “a” for Isaiah 14:2 indicates other nations will help Israel. Give examples of how gentile nations assist Israel today.



11.Spiritually, how does the Lord give us rest from sorrow, fear and bondage?

12.Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Cyrus.” How did the Lord use Cyrus to fulfill part of the prophecy recorded in Isaiah 14:1-3?



Day 5: Read Isaiah 14:4-11 (with footnotes 4a,c, 6a, 8a,b,c, 9b,11a)
Note: Isaiah 14:4-11 contains a “proverb,” or instructive message to the king of Babylon. Much of this prophecy is “dualistic,” or has two meanings. The king of Babylon (the world) is a “type” of Satan.
13. The trees in Isaiah 14:8 (and in most of Isaiah’s writings) represent people. Why are the trees singing? (See also D&C 128:22-23.)



14. Why might the inhabitants of hell be surprised to see the king of Babylon coming? Or are they?



15. What does the wicked king have in death instead of a throne and a robe? (See Isaiah 14:11.)



Day 6: Read Isaiah 14:12-23 (with footnotes 12c, 13c, 16a,b, 18b, 19a,b, 21a, 23a), D&C 76:25-27, Moses 4:1-4
Note: Isaiah 14:12-20 is a message of doom to Lucifer, or Satan.
16. Read D&C 76:25-27. List ways in which Lucifer “fell.” (See also Moses 4:1-4.)



17. Lucifer makes five statements in Isaiah 14:13-14. What is the first word of each statement?



18. What do Lucifer and the king of Babylon have in common?




Day 7: Read Isaiah 14:24-32 (with footnotes 25a,b, 26b, 28a, 29a, 32a,d)
19. Turning back to Assyria in Isaiah 14:24, what does the Lord promise this wicked nation?



20. Isaiah 14:29-32 is a “burden” or message of woe to Philistia, a neighbor of Israel. Find Philistia on map 4 in your Bible Appendix. Today this land roughly coincides with the Gaza Strip. According to the footnote to Isaiah 14:28a, when was this burden prophesied?



21. Why would Philistia make a poor ally against Assyria? What might be the message to modern Israel (us)?

Isaiah 10-12

Isaiah 10-12 Study Guide – to be discussed November 10
Day 1: Read Isaiah 10:1-7 (with footnotes 2a, 3a, 5a, 7a), D&C 59:21, Mormon 4:5
1. Isaiah 9:9 through Isaiah 10:4 lists four evils of Ephraim. The first (Isaiah 9:9-12) describes pride; the second (Isaiah 9:13-17) condemns wicked leaders; the third (Isaiah 9:18-21) indicts the “fire of wickedness,” or absence of love and kindness. How would you categorize the fourth evil of Ephraim, outlined in Isaiah 10:1-4?


2. Read D&C 59:21. Why is this fourth evil so heinous in God’s eyes?



3. Read Mormon 4:5 with Isaiah 10:5-7. Using these verses, explain how Assyria was the “rod” of the Lord’s anger. Was Assyria aware of its role?



Day 2: Read Isaiah 10:8-19 (with footnotes 12b, 15a,c, 16b, 18a), D&C 117:6
Note: The “he” in Isaiah 10:8 refers to the king of Assyria. Calno, Hamath and Samaria were cities in Israel. Carchemis, Arpad and Damascus had already been taken by Assyria. The king’s boasting comprises verses 8-11 in Isaiah 10. The Lord answers Assyria’s boasting in verses 12-19 (quoting the king again in vv. 13-14).
4. How did pride and power contort the Assyrian king’s view of his relationship to God? Can we see the same tendencies today? See also D&C 117:6.


5. What would eventually happen to Assyria and her king, according to Isaiah 10:12 and 16-19?


6. Who or what are the Assyrians in your life? What can you do to overcome them?



Day 3: Read Isaiah 10:20-27 (with footnotes 20a,c, 22e, 23a, 24b, 27c)
7. What time period is reflected in the prophecy of Isaiah 10:20-27? What is the promise?


8. How are we seeing this promise fulfilled today?



9. Using the footnotes for help, what might the phrase, “… the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing” (Isaiah 10:27) mean? Note: the word translated “anointing” is the Hebrew word shamen, which means “oil.”



BONUS: Read 2 Kings 19:35-37. What was the result of the Assyrian attack on Jerusalem?



Day 4: Read Isaiah 10:28-34 (with footnotes 28a, 33a), Bible Dictionary entry “ Ramah,” Bible Dictionary entry, “Nob,” 2 Kings 19:32
10. Look up LAISH on map 10 in your Bible Appendix (C-2). About how far was Laish from Jerusalem?

11. According to the Bible Dictionary, where was Ramah? Where was Nob? Even though we can’t identify locations for all the cities listed in Isaiah 10:28-32, what was the message to Judah regarding the advancing army?



12. Read 2 Kings 19:32. How does the prophecy regarding the Lord’s protection give you hope?



Day 5: Read Isaiah 11:1-9 (with footnotes 1d, 3b, 4c, 5b, 8a,b, 10a,d), D&C 113:1-4, D&C 101:26-28
13. Who was Jesse (see footnote)? Who is the “stem of Jesse”? See also D&C 113:1-2.


BONUS: Read D&C 113:3-4. What is the rod that comes from the stem of Jesse?


14. List qualities of leadership from Isaiah 11:2-5.



15. What time period might be described in Isaiah 11:6-9? In Isaiah 11:9 the word “knowledge” might also be translated “devotion.” How does our knowledge of the Lord affect our devotion? (See also D&C 101:26-28)



Day 6: Read Isaiah 11:10-16 (with footnotes 10a, 13a, 14a, 15b, 16a), D&C 113:5-6
16. What time period is described in Isaiah 11:10-16? (See footnote.)


17. Read D&C 113:5-6. What is the “root of Jesse” mentioned in Isaiah 11:10?



18. From Isaiah 11:10-16, list prophesied events that will come to pass “in that day.” Are these events as miraculous as the events described in Isaiah 10:6-9? (Note: The countries listed in Isaiah 11:11 were neighbors to ancient Israel. They represent the entire world.)



BONUS: Read 2 Nephi 6:14-18. How is the Lord fulfilling these promises today?



Day 7: Read Isaiah 12:1-6 (with footnotes 1b,c, 2a, 4b)
19. Considering the prophecies of Isaiah 11, why will people praise the Lord “in that day”?


20. Isaiah 12 consists of two psalms or hymns (vv. 1-3, 4-6). List a psalm or a latter-day hymn that comes to mind as you read this chapter.


21. List what the Lord does for us from Isaiah 12.

Isaiah 8-9

Isaiah 8-9 Study Guide – to be discussed November 3
Day 1: Read Isaiah 8:1-4 (with footnotes 1c,d,3a)
1. What does the name “Maher-shalal-hash-baz” mean?


2. Maher-shalal-hash-baz has the distinction of being the longest name in the Bible. Why might Isaiah have written his son’s extensive name on a “great roll” (large scroll or tablet)?



3. Isaiah 1:4 explains why Isaiah gave his son this lengthy name. What would happen to the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Samaria) before the boy was old enough to say “Daddy” or “Momma”? About how much time did they have left?



Day 2: Read Isaiah 8:5-10 (with footnotes 7a, 8a,c, 9a, 10b), John 4:14, John 9:6-7
(NOTE: “Rezin” was the king of Syria; the “son of Remaliah” was Pekah, king of Israel.)
4. Read John 4:14 and John 9:6-7 to help explain what the “waters of Shiloah” represent.



5. Why do you think Isaiah compared the armies of Assyria with a strong river, over-flooding its banks?



6. Using footnotes 7a, 8a,c, 9a and 10b, rewrite Isaiah 8:9-10 in your own words.



Day 3: Read Isaiah 8:11-18 (with footnotes 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a)
7. What strong counsel did the Lord give Isaiah regarding the politics of his day?



8. Read the footnote to Isaiah 13a. What does it mean to “sanctify the Lord of hosts” and “let him be your fear… your dread”?



9. Read Isaiah 8:14-15 with Helaman 5:12 and Matthew 21:42-44. How is Christ a sanctuary to those who trust him? To whom might his life and example be a “rock of offense”?



Day 4: Read Isaiah 8:16-22 (with footnotes 16b, 18a, 19b,c, 20b, 21a, 22b), D&C 109:46
10. Read D&C 109:46 (from the dedicatory prayer for the Kirtland Temple). What do you think it means to “bind up the testimony” and “seal the law” (Isaiah 8:16)?



11. How were Isaiah and his two sons “signs” or symbols of prophecy to the people? (See footnote 18a.)

12. (NOTE: The term “hardly bestead” in Isaiah 8:21 could also be translated “poorly situated” or “embittered by hunger.”) What kind of people did Isaiah describe as having “no light in them”?



Day 5: Read Isaiah 9:1-7 (with footnotes 1, 2a,b, 3c, 4d,e, 5a,b), 3 Nephi 8:19-22, 3 Nephi 11:3-11, 2 Nephi 19:3
(NOTE: Isaiah 9:1 is the last verse of Isaiah 8 in the Hebrew Bible.)
13. Read Isaiah 9:1-2 with footnotes 1b, 2a,b, 3 Nephi 8:19-22 and 3 Nephi 11:3-11. Give examples of how we can step out of darkness and into the light today.



BONUS: Look up Matthew 4:12-16. How did Jesus’ teaching in Galilee fulfill Isaiah’s prophecy?



14. Compare Isaiah 9:3 with 2 Nephi 19:3. What word should be crossed out in Isaiah’s Old Testament text?


BONUS: How does the term “multiplied the nation” (v.3) imply blessings of the Abrahamic covenant?


15. List three reasons Judah will have increased “joy” and hope, from Isaiah 9:4-7.



Day 6: Read Isaiah 9:8-17 (with footnotes 8a, 12a,b,d, 15a)
16. Isaiah 9:8 through Isaiah 10:4 outlines four of the evils of Ephraim, by way of warning. What is the first evil, as described in Isaiah 9:9-12?



17. What is the second evil of Ephraim, as described in Isaiah 9:13-16? (NOTE: head = leaders; tail = false prophets; branch = victory; rush = common people.)



18. From Isaiah 9:17, how deep did the corruption go in Israel?


Day 7: Read Isaiah 9:18-21
19. What is the third evil of Ephraim, as described in Isaiah 9:18-21?



20. How is wickedness like a wildfire?



21. The phrase, “they shall eat every man the flesh of his own arm [or offspring]” may indicate that the wicked will turn on each other, even members of their own family. What relation was Ephraim to Manasseh? To Judah?

Isaiah 6-7

Isaiah 6-7 Study Guide – to be discussed October 27
Day 1: Read Isaiah 6:1-4 (with footnotes 1e,4a), D&C 77:4, Exodus 19:18
1. The “year that king Uzziah died” (v.1) was around 740 BC. This chapter contains Isaiah’s mission call. As the vision opens, where does Isaiah see the Lord? What might his “train” represent?



2. Read D&C 77:4. Although the question in Section 77 refers to symbolism in John’s revelation, it gives insight to the seraphim seem by Isaiah. What might their wings represent? Why might the seraphim cover their face and their feet?


3. Read Exodus 19:18. Why did Isaiah see smoke and feel the foundations of the temple tremble?


Day 2: Read Isaiah 6:5-8 (with footnotes 5a, 6a)
4. Why did Isaiah feel “undone” (literal translation: “I am destroyed” or “I am lost”)? Have other prophets felt this way?


5. What might the live coal from the altar represent? Why do you think it was placed on Isaiah’s lips?


6. How did the live coal prepare Isaiah for his mission? How did he respond to the question, “Whom shall I send…?”



Day 3: Read Isaiah 6:9-13 (with footnotes 10a,b, 11a, 13b), 2 Nephi 16:9
7. What was Isaiah called to preach? What does Isaiah 6:10 say about the condition of the people in 740 BC?* Read 2 Nephi 16:9. How does this translation help your understanding? (See also D&C 136:32-33, Matthew 13:13-15.)



8. How long was Isaiah’s mission to last?


9. Did the Lord give Isaiah any hope that his mission would bear fruit?


Day 4: Read Isaiah 7:1-9 (with footnotes 2a, 3a,b,c, 4a, 6a, 9b)
10. Read the chapter heading to Isaiah 7. Who were Ahaz, Rezin, and Pekah? Against whom were the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the nation of Syria allied?


11. What did the name of Isaiah’s son mean? Why do you think Isaiah (name = Jehovah is salvation) and his son went together to advise the king of Judah?



12. “Smoking firebrands” indicate a torch that is burned out. What was the message to the quaking king? (See also footnote 7:4a.)


Day 5: Read Isaiah 7:10-16 (with footnotes 12a, 14e, 15a, 16a), Matthew 1:20-23
13. Why do you think the Lord wanted to give Ahaz a sign?


14. Was Ahaz wise or foolish in not requesting a sign after it had been offered?


15. What sign would Judah eventually have? What comfort might this prophecy give during Isaiah’s day? How might this prophecy have blessed the descendants of Ahaz for years to come? (See also Matthew 1:20-23.)



NOTE: The term “the land that thou abhorest” in Isaiah 7:16 refers to the Northern Kingdom of Israel.
Day 6: Read Isaiah 7:11-20 (with footnotes 17a, 18a,b, 20a)
16. What country did the Lord say would be a bigger danger than the alliance between Israel and Syria?


17. Why would the Lord summon flies and bees? What images come to mind as you read Isaiah 7:19?



18. What “razor” would the Lord use to “shave” the land?


Day 7: Read Isaiah 7:21-25 (with footnotes 21a, 22a, 23a, 25a,b)
19. According to the footnotes for Isaiah 21a and 22a, how will the situation of Israel change after the invaders attack?


20. What kind of harvest might one expect from briars and thorns?


21. How popular a missionary do you think Isaiah was if this was his message?



From the Institute Manual:
*(13-37) Isaiah 6:9–13 . Prophecy of the Rejection of Spiritual Things
The words the prophet Isaiah was commissioned to deliver were in part to bring the people to a full accountability for their choices, so that they would be left without excuse. The Book of Mormon rendering of verse 9 shows that the Lord was telling Isaiah the people would for the most part reject his words: “And he said: Go and tell this people—Hear ye indeed, but they understood not; and see ye indeed, but they perceived not” ( 2 Nephi 16:9 ; emphasis indicates differences from the King James Version).
The people claimed to hear and see, but they did not understand the spirit of the message.
The command to “make the heart of this people fat, . . . their ears heavy, and shut their eyes” is used to describe the process of making the people accountable. The command, of course, refers to “their spiritual sight, spiritual hearing, and spiritual feeling.” (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:200). “There is a self-hardening in evil. . . . Sin from its very nature bears its own punishment. . . . An evil act in itself is the result of self-determination proceeding from a man’s own will.” (Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:201). An individual cannot resist or reject the truth without eventually becoming spiritually hardened (see History of the Church, 4:264). Isaiah’s indictment of the kingdom of Judah was cited again in the New Testament to show that the people of that time were no different. The inability of many to understand the parables is a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy (see Matthew 13:10–17 ; Luke 8:9–10 ). The significance of many of the miracles was also misunderstood (see John 12:37–41 ). The testimony of the Messiah and His Sonship was understood, at least in part, by the disciples, but it was rejected by others (see Luke 10:21–24 ).

Isaiah 4-5

Isaiah 4-5 Study Guide – to be discussed October 22

Day 1: Review Isaiah 3:24-26, Read Isaiah 4:1-4 (with footnotes 1a,d,2c,d,4a)
1. The Joseph Smith Translation and the Hebrew Bible put the text we have as Isaiah 4:1 at the end of Isaiah 3. Putting Isaiah 4:1 in this context, and using footnote 1a, why might seven women lay hold on one man?


2. Isaiah 4:2 starts a new topic. According to the chapter heading, what day is meant by the phrase, “In that day,” which begins Isaiah 4:2?


3. From Isaiah 4:2-4, describe conditions among those who remain “in that day.”



Day 2: Read Isaiah 4:5-6, D&C 45:66-69, Bible Dictionary entry, “Shechinah”
NOTE: Moroni quoted Isaiah 4:5-6 to Joseph Smith in reference to the last days. See Messenger and Advocate, Ap.1835.
4. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Shechinah.” What does the “cloud” by day and the “fire” by night represent? What will every home have during the Millennium?*


5. List ways we can recognize or invite the presence of the Lord in our homes today.



6. Read D&C 45:66-69. How can the glory of the Lord and the terror of the Lord reside in one place? How do these two gifts contribute to the New Jerusalem being a place of refuge?


Day 3: Read Isaiah 5:1-7 (with footnotes 1b, d, 4a, 7b,c)
7. Read Isaiah 5:1 with Isaiah 5:7. What is the vineyard of the Lord? According to the footnote to Isaiah 5:1b, what does Isaiah’s “song” or parable show?


8. What did the Lord do to protect and support his vineyard? What did he expect from it?


9. What kind of harvest did the Lord realize? What will he do, or stop doing, as a result?


Day 4. Read Isaiah 5:8-12 (with footnotes 8c, 12a,b), Micah 2:2, Amos 8:11-12
10. Read Micah 2:2 with Isaiah 5:8 and footnote 8c. What does it mean to “join house to house” or “lay field to field”?


11. A “bath” equals about 8 ¼ US gallons; an homer is 6 ½ bushels of seed; an ephah is about ½ bushel of harvest. What is the ultimate result of social injustice? See also Amos 8:11-12.


12. The harp, viol (lyre), tabret (drum) and pipe were instruments associated with worship. List one sin from Isaiah 5:11, and one sin from Isaiah 5:12, that kept Israel from knowing the Lord.



Day 5: Read Isaiah 5:13-19 (with footnotes 13b, 14a, 15a, 18a,c, 19d), 2 Peter 3:3-4
13. Why will the Lord’s people go into captivity? Why will hell need to be expanded?


14. Read the footnote to Isaiah 5:18c. How do we become tied to our sins?


15. Read the footnote to Isaiah 5:19d and 2 Peter 3:3-4. Why will some people in the last days lack faith?


Day 6: Read Isaiah 5:20-25 (with footnote 23c)
16. Give an example of how people today call evil good and good evil. (No proper names, please!)


17. List the three “woes” in Isaiah 5:20-22. How does each of these woes cause spiritual blindness?



18. Give one warning and one promise to those who rebel against the Lord?


Day 7: Read Isaiah 5:26-30 (with footnotes 26b, 30b), D&C 45:8-10, Moroni 10:27-28,1 Corinthians 14:8-9
19. Read Isaiah 5:26 with D&C 45:8-10. What is the “ensign” which has been raised in the latter days? Why is it critical to the success of the plan of salvation?


20. What descriptive phrases did Isaiah use to indicate the speed of people gathering to the ensign in the latter days?



21. Ezra Taft Benson said, “We, the members of the Church, and particularly the missionaries, have to be the “hissers,” or the tellers and testifiers, of the Book of Mormon unto the ends of the earth.” (Ensign, May 1975.) Give one example of how we can “hiss” or signal to our neighbors the need to gather for safety. See also Moroni 10:27-28.


BONUS: Read 1 Corinthians 14:8-9. Why is it important we all whistle the same tune?



*(13-26) Isaiah 4:5–6 . Zion to Be a Place of Refuge. In Doctrine and Covenants 45:66–72 , the sacred and protected status of “Zion” for the gathered Israel in the latter days is described. Doctrine and Covenants 105:31–32 speaks of how the glory of Zion shall be her defense. Isaiah compared the protecting divine influence with that experienced by Moses (see Exodus 14:19–20 ; Deuteronomy 1:33 ). Elder Orson Pratt suggested that the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy would be literal:
“The time is to come when God will meet with all the congregation of his Saints, and to show his approval, and that he does love them, he will work a miracle by covering them in the cloud of his glory. I do not mean something that is invisible, but I mean that same order of things which once existed on the earth so far as the tabernacle of Moses was concerned, which was carried in the midst of the children of Israel as they journeyed in the wilderness. . . . But in the latter days there will be people so pure in Mount Zion, with a house established upon the tops of the mountains, that God will manifest himself, not only in their Temple and upon all their assemblies, with a visible cloud during the day, but when the night shall come, if they shall be assembled for worship, God will meet with them by his pillar of fire; and when they retire to their habitations, behold each habitation will be lighted up by the glory of God,—a pillar of flaming fire by night.
“Did you ever hear of any city that was thus favored and blessed since the day that Isaiah delivered this prophecy? No, it is a latter-day work, one that God must consummate in the latter times when he begins to reveal himself, and show forth his power among the nations.” (In Journal of Discourses, 16:82.)

Isaiah 2-3

Isaiah 2-3 Study guide – to be discussed October 13
Day 1: Read Isaiah 2:1-5 (with footnotes 1a,b, 3f), Mosiah 6:6, D&C 25:2, D&C 84:45
1. According to footnote 1b in Isaiah 2, how did Isaiah receive his message? What do you “envision” when you read the term “the mountain of the Lord’s house”? In what way is your mental image like a mountain? Like a house?


2. How has “the law” come out of Zion? How has ‘the word” come out of Jerusalem? (See also footnote 3f.)


3. What time frame is Isaiah looking forward to in Isaiah 2:4-5? (See chapter heading.) How can we learn to walk in the light of the Lord? (See also Mosiah 6:6, D&C 25:2, D&C 84:45.)



BONUS: Read 2 Nephi 12:5. What phrase is included here that is not included in Isaiah?


Day 2: Read Isaiah 2:6-9 (with footnotes 6a,c, 9a), 2 Nephi 12:9, 2 Nephi 25:9-10, Bible Dictionary entry “Soothsayer,” D&C 82:10
4. Use the footnotes to help explain why the Lord was willing to forsake the house of Jacob. See also 2 Nephi 25:9-10.


5. Compare Isaiah 2:9 with 2 Nephi 12:9. What word, used twice in 2 Nephi, helps clarify the meaning of this verse?



6. The Assyrians were more barbaric and godless than the people of Israel. Why did the Lord allow the Assyrians to conquer his covenant people? (See also D&C 82:10.)



Day 3: Read Isaiah 2:10-16 (with footnote 16a)
7. What kind of men did Isaiah suggest should hide in caves at the Lord’s Second Coming? What are “lofty looks”?


8. Are cedar trees inherently bad? What qualities of a “cedar of Lebanon” would make it a bad role model?*


9. Who builds high towers, fenced walls and fast ships? What kind of protection do these offer?


Day 4: Read Isaiah 2:17-22, Mosiah 27:31, D&C 88:104
10. Read Isaiah 2:17 with Mosiah 27:31 and D&C 88:104. How and when will men’s loftiness or pride be made low?


11. Where do moles and bats live? Why would they want idols of silver and gold?


12. Rewrite Isaiah 2:22 in your own words.**


Day 5: Read Isaiah 3:1-8 (with footnotes 2a, 3a,b, 7a)
NOTE: Isaiah 3:1-8 is written in a form of Hebrew poetry called “chiasmus.” The form of this kind of poetry is inverted parallelism, or in other words, a list of ideas repeated in reverse order. Parallelism was used as a memory aid and for emphasis. The main point of a chiastic verse is in the middle.
13. Read Isaiah 3:1-2 with Isaiah 3:7-8. What main ideas do these two passages have in common?


14. Read Isaiah 3:3-4 with Isaiah 3:5-6. What concepts do these passages share? What is the central idea?


15. What did Isaiah say about political leaders in a fallen Jerusalem?


Day 6: Read Isaiah 3:9-15 (with footnotes 11b, 13a, 14b,c,d,e)
16. What do you think Isaiah meant when he prophesied that the wicked “rewarded evil unto themselves”?


17. Do the Lord’s people sound weak or strong in Isaiah 3:12-13? How did they get that way?


18. To whom is the Lord speaking in Isaiah 3:14? What is his message regarding their treatment of the poor?


Day 7: Read Isaiah 3:16-26 (with footnotes 16e, 17a, 18a,b, 19a, 22a, 23a,c,d, 26d)
19. Describe the daughters of Zion in modern terms. (See especially note 23a and notes from the manual below.)***


20. What will happen to these people at the Second Coming? (Note: Baldness, “rent” or ropes, and branding may imply slavery.)


21. List warnings from Isaiah 2-3 which may apply to our day.



From the Institute Manual:
*(13-14) Isaiah 2:13. What Were the “Cedars of Lebanon” and the “Oaks of Bashan”?
They were the loftiest and most impressive trees in the ancient Middle East. They therefore symbolized not only the great beauty of the land that would be destroyed but also the proud and lofty people of the earth (see Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:122–23).

**(13-16) Isaiah 2:22. “Cease Ye from Man”
This expression is a warning about the weaknesses of trusting merely in man (see also 2 Nephi 4:34; 2 Nephi 28:31; Topical Guide, s.v. “trust not in the arm of flesh”).

***(13-21) Isaiah 3:16-24. Difficult Idioms and Archaic Expressions
The following explanations may be helpful in understanding the power of Isaiah’s condemnation of the women’s apostasy. Verse 16. “Stretched forth necks” is an idiom describing haughtiness—pride in self and scorn toward others (see Young, Book of Isaiah, 1:162).
Verse 16. “Mincing . . . and making a tinkling with their feet.” The women wore costly ornamental chains connecting rings about the ankles. These were often adorned with bells. (See Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:143.)
Verse 17. “Discover their secret parts” is an idiom meaning that they would be put to shame (see Isaiah 3:17a).
Verse 18. “Cauls . . . round tires like the moon” were ornamental jewelry in the shape of suns and moons according to the fashions of that day (see Young, Book of Isaiah, 1:165).
Verses 19–23. These terms describe fashions that were popular among the worldly women in Isaiah’s day: “muffler”—veil; “bonnet”—headdress; “tablets”—perfume boxes; “earrings”—charms or amulets; “nose jewels”—nose rings; “changeable suits of apparel”—clothing for festivals only; “mantle”— overcloak; “wimples”—a type of shawl or veil worn over the head; “crisping pins”—erroneously rendered as hair curling implements. The Hebrew suggests a bag, like modern purses or handbags; “glasses”—most authorities translate as a metal mirror, although some suggest transparent clothing, “hoods”—turbans, head cover wrapped by hand. (See Young, Book of Isaiah, 1:165–66; Keil and Delitzsch, Commentary, 7:1:144–47.)

Isaiah 1

NOTE: Isaiah 1 is a preface to the whole book of Isaiah, introducing his basic themes. As you read, look for messages that apply to us today.
Day 1: Read Isaiah 1:1-4 (with footnotes 3a,b), Bible Dictionary entry, "Isaiah" (p. 707 in the Bible Appendix)
1. Look up "Isaiah" in the Bible Dictionary. What does the name "Isaiah" mean? When did Isaiah prophesy in Jerusalem? What major theme is identified in paragraph three in the Bible Dictionary entry?



2. Read Isaiah 1:2-3. In your own words, what is the main problem with Israel? Can this be a problem with covenant Israel (us) today?



3. Read Isaiah 1:4. List three ways Israel has incurred the anger of the Lord.



Day 2: Read Isaiah 1:5-9 (with footnotes 5a,c, 6a,b, 8b), D&C 38:11-12
4. What might the “head” and “heart” of the people represent? How sick is the body of Israel?



5. Do you think Isaiah is describing physical or spiritual desolation in Isaiah 1:7? (See also D&C 38:11-12.)



6. The “cottage” or watchman’s hut described by Isaiah in 1:8 would have been a temporary shelter built of straw and leaves. How secure is the “daughter of Zion”?



Day 3: Read Isaiah 1:10-15 (with footnote 13e, 15b), Genesis 19:14-16, 24-25, Bible Dictionary entry, “New Moon,” p. 738, 1 Chronicles 23:31
7. Read Genesis 19:14-16, 24-25. What happened to Sodom and Gomorrah? Why? (See also Bible Dictionary entry, “Gomorrah,” p. 682.) How is Israel NOT like Sodom and Gomorrah?



8. Why were Israel’s temple ordinances spurned by the Lord?



9. Read Bible Dictionary entry “New Moon” and Chronicles 23:31. Explain what “vain oblations” are. Why would the Lord refuse to hear the prayers of his people?





Day 4: Read Isaiah 1:16-20 (with footnotes 17c,e, 21b), D&C 50:10-12
10. List ways the Lord has proscribed for us to repent, from Isaiah 1:16-17.




11. Read D&C 50:10-12 with Isaiah 1:18. How does the Lord reason with us? What must we understand in order to be cleansed?



12. What will happen if we refuse to reason?



Day 5: Read Isaiah 1:21-23 (with footnotes 21a,b, 22a, 23b,c)
13. What do the footnotes to Isaiah 1:21a and 22a indicate about the spiritual state of Jerusalem during Isaiah’s time?



14. Look up “Dross” in any dictionary. How was Israel like dross?



15. List two sins of Jerusalem’s rulers, according to Isaiah 1:23.



Day 6: Read Isaiah 1:24-27 (with footnotes 25a, 27b)
16. List ways in which the Lord will cleanse his people.



17. Find three examples of “parallelism” in Isaiah 1:24-27.



18. How will Zion be redeemed?



Day 7: Read Isaiah 1:28-31 (with footnotes 29a, 31a)
19. Read footnote 29a. Why should Israel be ashamed of trees?



20. What happens to an unwatered garden?



21. What is the overall message of Isaiah 1?



BONUS: Read 2 Nephi 11:2-8 and 2 Nephi 25:1-8. From 2 Nephi 11, give reasons why Nephi quoted Isaiah. From 2 Nephi 25, list Nephi's keys to understanding Isaiah's teachings.