Let the heavens send righteousness like dew and the clouds rain it down. Let the earth open and salvation blossom, so that justice also may sprout; I, the Lord, have created it.
Commentaries
45:1 - 45:8
Investiture of Cyrus.
God calls Cyrus, a pagan king who does not know Him, and anoints him for a special mission that elevates him: to give freedom to His people, Israel. In ancient times, these peoples believed their military strength reflected the power of their gods. Before Cyrus, God revealed himself as the only God, the creator, and the supplier of rain and fertility. This subtly warns the Israelites not to return to the idolatry of the Baals. Just as the Assyrians and Babylonians served as instruments of God to punish His people, now the Lord demonstrates His saving power through Cyrus in Israel’s history.
Commentaries
Investiture of Cyrus.
God calls Cyrus, a pagan king who does not know Him, and anoints him for a special mission that elevates him: to give freedom to His people, Israel. In ancient times, these peoples believed their military strength reflected the power of their gods. Before Cyrus, God revealed himself as the only God, the creator, and the supplier of rain and fertility. This subtly warns the Israelites not to return to the idolatry of the Baals. Just as the Assyrians and Babylonians served as instruments of God to punish His people, now the Lord demonstrates His saving power through Cyrus in Israel’s history.