Isaiah – Chapter 20

Old Testament6 Verses

1In the year that Tharthan entered into Azotus, when Sargon the king of the Assyrians had sent him, and he had fought against Azotus, and had taken it:

2At that same time the Lord spoke by the hand of Isaiah the son of Amos, saying Go, and loose the sackcloth from off thy loins, and take off thy shoes from thy feet. And he did so, and went naked, and barefoot.

3And the Lord said: As my servant Isaiah hath walked, naked and barefoot, it shall be a sign and a wonder of three years upon Egypt, and upon Ethiopia,

4So shall the king of the Assyrians lead away the prisoners of Egypt, and the captivity of Ethiopia, young and old, naked and barefoot, with their buttocks uncovered to the shame of Egypt.

5And they shall be afraid, and ashamed of Ethiopia their hope, and of Egypt their glory.

6And the inhabitants of this isle shall say in that day: Lo this was our hope, to whom we fled for help, to deliver us from the face of the king of the Assyrians: and how shall we be able to escape?

Reflection for Today

Isaiah Chapter 20 continues the biblical theme of judgment, comfort, and messianic hope. According to Catholic teaching, Isaiah's prophecies are fulfilled in Christ, especially the Suffering Servant (CIC 601). This chapter invites us to reflect on God's salvation reaches to the ends of the earth.

The Church Fathers and saints have meditated on these passages for centuries, finding in them nourishment for the spiritual life. The Catechism teaches that "the Sacred Scriptures contain the Word of God and, because they are inspired, they are truly the Word of God" (CIC 135). As we read this chapter, we join the great Tradition of Catholic biblical interpretation.

Catholic spirituality encourages us to approach Scripture with faith, seeking not merely information but transformation. Through the practice of lectio divina—reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation—we allow God's Word to penetrate our hearts. May this chapter deepen your love for God and neighbor, and strengthen your commitment to live the Gospel in daily life.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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