The prophet Isaiah lived 700 years before the birth of Jesus, however Isaiah foretold that God’s son will be born of a virgin young woman.
“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14
Isaiah was the son of Amoz, also mentioned as a prophet. He was called to prophetic service when he saw the Lord God, sitting in a majestic heavenly temple, surrounded by Seraphim, each having six wings. with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew and they called to one another saying “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” (Isaiah 6:3) Isaiah felt unworthy but after hearing the voice of the Lord directed to him, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah answered “Here am I; send me”
Isaiah prophesied not only the birth of Jesus Christ but also His suffering in repentance for the sins of the world, the resurrection and the spreading of the church. He is regarded one of the most important prophets in the Old testament, his prophecies are recited again in the gospels to show that the prophecies have been fulfilled. His work is also recited in our Maronite liturgy to also emphasise the typology and prophecies fulfilled.
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