God's word is not primarily something written, but an event. Dabhar in the Hebrew mind is first of all a "happening." After it "happens", then it is proclaimed, spoken about, and later, even written down. We have had the occassion to describe this event-aspect of the Word within the context of the Christ-event. In this selection from the prophet Isiah, we find God comparing His Word to the rain and the snow to illustrate its fruitfulness and efficacy.
In verse 10, some sort of life-cycle is described involving the "heavens", "the earth" and water in the form of snow and rain. The "heavens" and the "earth" were the first creations of God lending structure to the abode of men. In fact, humankind lives between the parameters of these, God's first creatures. From these two both life and death can come. Here, however, the cycle of life is emphasized.
The rain and the snow come from the heavens becoming water that irrigates the earth. In the form of water, both allow the earth to spring to life, producing seed for the sower and food for the eater. The poetic lines here leave much to the imagination. One can extend this in the following way: rain irrigates the soil which then produces grass for the cow to eat; the cow in turn gives milk and meat. Again, from the soil that is watered grows corn and wheat; the corn is used to feed the chicken which provides eggs for breakfast and also meat. Wheat on the other hand, becomes bread. So from the irrigated land comes life for a variety of living beings, and especially for man. Then water flows back to the sea, becomes vapor and returns to the heavens where it is transformed once more into rain and snow.
The Word of God is just like that (v. 11). When uttered by God, it brings about what He wills in complete conformity with His paln, not holding anything back, perfectly corresponding to what He wants.
These verses are best understood within the context provided by Isaiah 55:1-13 which can be outlined thus:
- vv.1-5
- The passage is an invitation to come and listen to Yahweh. The central invitation is found in v. 3: "Give ear, come to me, hear me, that your soul may live." It is an invitation to life and to an everlasting covenant in fulfillment of the promises to David. Finally, it is an invitation for Israel to take its place at the center of the world, to be a point of reference for all the nations.
- vv.6-9
- The invitation is reworded and becomes an invitation to repentance: "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on Him while He is near". The Lord is mercy and forgiveness; He pardons in a way that no one expects. For He is Merciful as only God can; He forgives as only Mercy forgives (cf. v.9)
- vv.10-11
- The above words of Yahweh are true and will happen: as the rain and snow do not turn into vapor before these have given life to the earth, so God's word does not return to Him before it has realized His plans.
- vv.12-13
- Joy, peace and life will result for Israel. And all this will be for the glory of God.
Seen from this perspective, therefore, Isaiah 55:10-11 is God's assurance that His Word will never fail: it is life-giving and, for the repentant, it brings joy and peace, transforming one's condition into something that even makes God's glory shine forth ever more brightly.
