And in that day, seven women shall take hold of one man, saying,
“We will eat our own food and wear our own apparel; Only let us be called by your name, to take away our reproach.” (Isaiah 4:1)
In the aftermath of the divine judgments described in Isaiah 3:16-26, the daughters of Zion will face a significant shortage of potential husbands. The Lord's wrath leads to the death of many men in battle, as they fall by the sword (Isaiah 3:25). This scarcity of men results in a drastic change in the societal dynamics, with seven women competing for the attention of a single man. In their desperation for marriage, these women are willing to completely forgo traditional expectations, stating that they will provide for themselves by eating their own food and wearing their own clothes.
In that day, the Branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious; And the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and appealing for those of Israel who have escaped. (Isaiah 4:2)
The Branch of the LORD is a Messianic title speaking of Lord Jesus Christ.
There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots. (Isaiah 11:1)
“Behold, the days are coming", says the Lord,
“That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King shall reign and prosper,
And execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. (Jeremiah 23:5)
The title "Branch of the LORD" embodies the concepts of fruitfulness and life, representing the divine source of sustenance and growth. Lord Jesus utilised this imagery when he declared, "I am the vine, you are the branches" (John 15:5).
By connecting himself to the vine, Lord Jesus emphasised the importance of a close relationship with him for spiritual nourishment, as branches receive life-giving sustenance from the vine. This powerful metaphor underscores the vitality of remaining connected to Jesus in order to bear spiritual fruit and thrive in the Christian walk.
then the Lord will create above every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and above her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a flaming fire by night. For over all the glory there will be a covering. (Isaiah 4:5)
When the Branch of the LORD reigns, the tangible presence of God will be evident among His people. This divine presence will be reminiscent of the days of the Exodus, when God guided the Israelites with a visible pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22).
As in those times, the Lord's unmistakable presence will serve as a symbol of divine guidance, protection, and reassurance to the faithful, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His people and the fulfilment of His promises. This manifestation of the divine presence will foster a profound sense of unity, security, and trust in God's leadership as the Branch of the LORD reigns.
Chapters