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We saw in ch. 2 that the prophet established a contrapuntal relationship between the themes of elevation and demotion on a grand scale throughout the book. The same is true of the themes of judgment and blessing. The book begins on a note of judgment, but ch. 2 opens with a vision of blessing (vv.1-5). This is followed by a graphic depiction of judgment (2:6-4:1). But once again the prophet reiterates the theme of blessing. Similar themes of blessing appear in 9:1-7 and 11:1-12:6.
Most critical scholars consider these portions that refer to future blessing to be later postexilic additions. Little evidence is available to support this, and it destroys Isaiah’s intention. He has carefully woven the two themes together to show that even though Yahweh’s judgment must surely come because of their disobedience, just as surely Yahweh will never forsake them but will restore and rescue them. Always in the midst of devastation there remained a vision of hope. This legacy Isaiah gave to his people and to all of us who are his spiritual descendants.
In this specific text Isaiah looks beyond the imminent devastation to a beautiful and glorious future. He mentions a remnant, that is, those who are left (shear, v.3). This is the first reference in Isaiah to the holy remnant or righteous remnant.
Note in vv.5 and 6 the allusions to the Exodus/Sinai experience when the children of Israel were led by a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night and when God’s presence was symbolized by the presence of the cloud that covered the Tent of Meeting.