Isaiah 35

1 shall be glad for them. Or, simply “shall be glad” (R.V.).

the rose. The narcissus.

2. They shall see, etc. Lit., “The wilderness and the solitary place shall see.”

3. Strengthen ye, etc. An address to the people of Israel generally.

5. Then the eyes of the blind, etc. Not only shall external Nature be renewed, but man shall share the blessing. By His miraculous cures our Lord not only in part fulfilled this prophecy, but also showed Himself to be the great Deliverer by whom it was to be accomplished in all its fullness.

7 the parched ground. Or, “mirage.” The glowing sands of the desert appear at a little distance like a sheet of water, and thus deceive the thirsty traveller. It is here beautifully contrasted with the reality, which vivifies and refreshes: see the contrast to these verses in xxxiv. 9, 10, 13.

the habitation of dragons (jackals). The driest places.

8 it shall be for those. That is, for “the redeemed” afterwards mentioned. The main idea here is, that the way of access to these blessings shall be free and plain to all.

9. Nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon. The people of God shall enjoy their blessedness, secure from every enemy and danger. The image is that of a raised causeway, too high for wild beasts to climb.

10 shall return, and come to Zion, etc. The connexion of the sentence is made clearer by R.V. arrangement, “The ransomed of Jehovah shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads.”