Isaiah 30:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe that they are instructed to document for the purpose of correction and accusation, similar to what Moses did in his song (Deuteronomy 32:44). Isaiah, too, recorded his prophecy in a new book, so that when it came to pass, the very texts would stand as a witness against the Jews, as they had been foretold by him long ago. Thus, the prophet writes, not just in any book, but in a new one, which is designed to be preserved for an extended period, resilient against deterioration, and to remain intact until the prophecy is fulfilled. The truth that God informed the Jews about all future events is something I will demonstrate not just from this instance, but also from the actual occurrences in the lives of the Jews, both tragic and joyful.

Since these occurrences are destined to unfold at their appointed time, he instructed that they be recorded and given due attention; for, he states, they will transpire in the days to come and will deserve to be remembered throughout eternity. The truth of this statement endures. These events will serve as indicators of genuine prophets right up to the conclusion of the current era. It should be noted, he insists, that this prophecy is particularly significant due to the disobedience of people. If they fail to heed the holy prophets who will emerge in that era, they should bear the shame of it being foretold by you.

Observe and inscribe these matters on a tablet and in a book, revealing the disasters that will come upon the Jews and the Egyptians, from whom they have sought solace. All these events you are to document openly on tablets so that they may endure for generations to come.

Now go and inscribe them on the beech, recording it thoughtfully in the book: and it shall serve as an everlasting testimony in the final day. The Hebrews assert that since there exists a singular spirit among the prophets, and all of God's appointed times are interconnected, Jeremiah receives this divine directive to travel to Egypt and write upon beech, symbolizing wood that remains unspoiled or as Simmachus interprets it, on a sizable plank. The term im undoubtedly refers to the Jews. He has meticulously outlined it in the book, ensuring clarity for readers so that when the prophecy comes to fruition, they may recognize the truthfulness of the prophets’ words. We briefly overview the clear aspects to focus more on the profound mysteries.

The bishops and Pharisees secured the tomb in accordance with Pilate's directive, yet it was the women who beheld the Risen Savior. The high priests are oblivious to this reality, while the women witness it firsthand. When the soldiers arrived in the city and reported everything that had transpired to the chief priests, they instructed them, ‘Tell them that His disciples came during the night and took Him away’ (Matthew 28:13). In truth, Isaiah seems to speak for them, admonishing, "Do not prophesy truth to us; speak smooth things, prophesy deceit." The Risen One has triumphed over death, and the soldiers are lured with bribes of silver.