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Isaiah 46:9
Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me.
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Interpretation

Isaiah 46:9 shows a remember former that takes shape in planning and improvising—listen for "god" and "there". Work out remember former in generosity without notice—learn freedom in service.

Context

This passage belongs to Isaiah, a prophetic oracle witness, highlighting remember former. Within ch. 46, a small unit frames the emphasis. It edges toward prophetic hope & judgment. Watch the terms “god” and “there”.

Authorship & Historical Background

Long‑standing tradition credits Isaiah to Isaiah son of Amoz. Many scholars judge Isaiah as follows: Often read as a multi‑stage composition (Deutero/Trito‑Isaiah).. Scholars commonly date Isaiah 8th–5th century BC. Here the thread of prophetic hope & judgment comes into view. Chs 40–55 commonly exilic (Deutero). Chs 56–66 commonly post‑exilic (Trito). A long compositional arc is often proposed (Proto/Deutero/Trito).

More details
Traditional:Isaiah son of Amoz
Modern scholarship:Multiple authors (Proto‑, Deutero‑, Trito‑Isaiah).
Date:8th–5th century BC
  • Chs 40–55 commonly exilic (Deutero).
  • Chs 56–66 commonly post‑exilic (Trito).
Manuscripts & Textual Witnesses
In the Masoretic tradition the Hebrew text is preserved with remarkable accuracy. The Dead Sea Scrolls (1947-1956 discoveries) confirm the Hebrew text's reliability, showing minimal variation over 1000+ years of transmission.