Summary of Haftarat Nitzavim
Isaiah 61:10-63:9
The haftarah for Shabbat Nitzavim is the last in a series of seven successive haftarah readings that follow the Fast of Av and the anniversary of the destruction of Jerusalem. The Seven Consolations, each drawn from Isaiah’s Book of Consolations (Isaiah 40-66), offer words of comfort to Zion and promises of future redemption. Each one prophesies the return from the exile, Zion’s restoration, and ultimately, the Messianic kingdom of heaven on earth.
First Consolation (Va’etchanan): Isaiah 40:1-16
Second Consolation (Ekev) Isaiah 49:14-51:3
Third Consolation ( Re’eh): Isaiah 54:11-55:5
Fourth Consolation ( Shoftim): Isaiah 51:12-52:12
Fifth Consolation ( Ki Tete): Isaiah 54:1-10
Sixth Consolation (Ki Tov): Isaiah 60:1-22
Seventh Consolation (Nitzavim): Isaiah 61:10-63:9
Haftarah Nitzavim, is the seventh of the Seven Consolations, begins in Isaiah 61:10 but we recommend a Messianic reading that starts in 61:1. Our commentary includes those first nine verses at the chapter in which the Servant of the LORD declares that the LORD has anointed Him with His Spirit to proclaim the good news of redemption to the afflicted of Israel and to announce the day of vengeance He come to comfort the mourners and to replace their sorrow with gladness. Then Israel will rebuild and resettle her land. Under a new everlasting covenant, they will possess a double portion, and the nations will recognize them as blessed by the LORD.
The haftarah proper beings with the 61:10 with the Servant of the LORD exalting and rejoicing over the promises of redemption that will sprout up like seeks planted in a garden. God announces that He will no longer remain silent, but will actively involve Himself in bringing about the redemption of Zion. He will give Zion a new name. Jerusalem will be called “My delight is in her,” and the land of Israel be called “Married.”
Watchmen on Jerusalem’s walls will keep her in remembrance before the LORD forever. The LORD vows never foreigners to oppress His people again. In preparation for this redemption, the way to Zion must be cleared. Then the nations will call Israel “The Holy People “ and they will call Jerusalem “Sought Out.” In the day of vengeance, the LORD will crush Edom and His enemies as a man treads out grapes. Their blood bespatters His garments.
The haftarah concludes with a statement about God’s goodness and mercy to His people. He is faithful to save them from their distress. He will carry them in the future just as He carried them in days of old.
From FFOZ Voice of the Prophets
Ffoz.org