Introduction to Isaiah 57

Structure and Formatting

This chapter begins with an oracle (verses 1–13) that continues to address the conditions within the community of the returned exiles. It describes how many of them shamefully engage in idolatry. It begins by saying dramatically that if people who are devoted to Yahweh die, that is not because Yahweh could not preserve them, but because Yahweh is sparing them the punishment that idolaters will suffer.

But in the second oracle in this chapter (verses 14–21), Yahweh speaks encouragingly to the people. He promises them healing and restoration if they will return to him. This oracle echoes the imagery and language of the earlier parts of the book, for example, by describing Yahweh as “high and uplifted,” as Isaiah did when he saw him in the temple; by speaking of preparing a “way” or road for the people to walk on; and so forth.

1. Yahweh condemns the idolatry of the people (1–13)
2. Yahweh promises healing and restoration to those who humbly repent (14–21)