Isaiah 45 Study Notes

45:12 On stretched out the heavens, see note at 42:5.

45:13 The one stirred . . . up is Cyrus.

45:14 Egypt and Cush (Ethiopia; see note at 18:1-7) were nations associated with the Nile Valley. The Sabeans were an Arabian tribe. This verse anticipates a time when these foreign nations will recognize that the God of the Israelites is the one true God.

45:15 On God hiding himself, see note at v. 19.

45:16-17 Shame comes on those who trust in idols because their confidence is misplaced. Those who trust in the Lord will never be disgraced.

45:18 The claim that God did not create the world to be uninhabited (a wasteland) may be a polemic against an ancient Near Eastern myth, according to which humans were created only after the minor gods went on strike from digging irrigation canals and thus needed a workforce.

Bara’, occurring in the active and passive, is theological in that it has no clear subject other than God. Bara’ always connotes create, though occasionally it is better translated be done (Ex 34:10) or bring about (Nm 16:30). It suggests creating something new (Jr 31:22). The participle refers to God as Creator (Is 40:28). He not only created the whole universe (Gn 1:1) but such particulars as sea creatures (Gn 1:21), heavenly bodies (Is 40:26), and wind (Am 4:13). Bara’ most frequently describes the creation of human beings (Is 45:12), both peoples and individuals (Ezk 21:30; 28:15). Bara’ applies to providential acts such as new generations (Ps 102:18). God creates disaster as well as words of praise (Is 45:7; 57:19). Spiritually, he creates clean hearts (Ps 51:10) and will create Jerusalem to be a joy (Is 65:18). The related noun beriy’ah, translated something unprecedented, indicates circumstances that God would create (Nm 16:30).

45:19 While God hid himself in the sense that he is far above creation (v. 15), he pursues relationship with and makes himself known to his creatures.

45:20 The description of the nations as fugitives may imply a previous judgment against them.

45:21 The challenge to speak up and present your case indicates that this passage has a legal background. The issue involves the gods’ ability to reveal the future.

45:23 Paul quotes this verse in Rm 14:11.