Back in Palestine: Yahweh’s Vision for an Open Community: We have come to another transition point in Isaiah, and to the opening of its last major section, traditionally known as Third Isaiah. The work of the Ambassador and the Poet give way to the work of the Preacher, whose account of being anointed for this task comes in the central chapter in 61:1.

So far chapters 1–33 have focused on Yahweh’s dealings with Judah during the latter part of the monarchy. They have challenged Judah about the religious and social failings of its life. They have warned it about calamity to come but promised restoration beyond that. Chapters 34–39 then prepared the way for a message that focuses more on encouragement than warning. In a context of calamity, chapters 40–55 sound a note of hope, even though the …