The First Song of Isaiah
With joy the isles shall clap their hands
The hymn embodies Lutheran confidence in God's sovereignty and gracious deliverance, emphasizing comfort and assurance central to the Reformation's Gospel proclamation. It connects Old Testament promise to New Testament fulfillment, reflecting Luther's typological reading of Scripture.
History & Background
This hymn is a medieval Latin paraphrase of Isaiah 12, the prophet's song of thanksgiving for God's salvation. It was adapted into English during the 20th century revival of ancient Christian hymnody for Lutheran worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Hymnal 1982 — 679
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 33
- Lutheran Service Book — 264
- Lutheran Worship — 33
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 89
Translation
Bulletin Note
Dating to the 10th century, 'The First Song of Isaiah' connects Old Testament prophecy directly to Christian redemption, embodying Luther's typological reading of Scripture and the Reformation's confidence in God's sovereign, gracious deliverance.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's movement from Law to Gospel—from acknowledgment of divine anger to joyous proclamation of salvation—mirrors the sermon's own arc, allowing the congregation to sing their way into the comfort of forgiveness already proclaimed at the pulpit.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Themes
God's salvation and joy Messianic hope Consolation in God Eschatological praise Divine deliverance