Reading through Chapter 52 in Yeshayahu feels like stepping into a treasure trove of Jewish songs. Many of the verses from this chapter have been set to music or inspired the writing of piyyutim rooted in the prophet’s language. Lecha Dodi, Ma’oz Tzur, and Mah Navu are just a few examples of songs and piyyutim that draw significantly from the verses in our chapter.

It seems no coincidence that the poets turn to Sefer Yeshayahu. The language of Yeshayahu in these chapters is extraordinarily poetic and elevated, almost as though some of the verses are eager to leap off the page and dance before us. Consider, for example, the prophet’s call to the ruins of Jerusalem to break forth in song: ”Break out in song; sing out together, ruins of Jerusalem” (52:9).

Often, in our effort to study, analyze, and delve deeply into the chapter, we may overlook the simple joy of immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of the verses and feeling the emotion conveyed by the prophet’s words. Let’s take this chapter as an opportunity to do just that. Instead of examining the ideas presented, let’s allow ourselves to simply read through the verses and be moved by them. Open the chapter, imagine seeing Yeshayahu himself and hearing the voice of the herald approaching. See, for example, verses 7–8:

How lovely upon the mountains:
The steps of the bringer of tidings, 
Resounding with peace, 
Tidings of good, resounding of rescue,
Saying to Zion: “Your God has ascended the throne.”

The voice of your watchmen,
Their voices rise as one, singing,
For they will see with their own eyes
The Lord's return to Zion