5. A prayer for help (63:7-64:12)

This section has the form of a communal lament, which generally contains the elements of (1) citation of past blessings (vv.7-9), (2) mention of present need (vv.10-19), (3) request for aid (64:1-12), and (4) assurance that God hears and will answer (in this case 65:1-25). A recognition of sin underlies the entire lament.

Most scholars believe that the glorious vision of restored Zion has been proclaimed but not attained. This community lament grows out of that situation. Jerusalem still lies wasted. Some of the exiles have returned, but the restoration has scarcely begun, and its completion remains in doubt. Therefore they offer this prayer.