Verse 1

The wilderness, &c.: i.e. the land of Edom referred to in Isaiah 34:9-16. While Edom becomes a waste, the Land becomes a paradise; and the way of the return thither a peaceful highway.

shall be glad for them = shall rejoice over them.

them: i.e. the noisome creatures of Isaiah 34:14-16, &c.

and = but; giving the contrast.

the desert shall rejoice, and blossom, & c. The description in this chapter leaves little to be interpreted. It requires only to be believed. No amount of spiritual blessing through the preaching of the Gospal can produce these physical miracles.

Verse 3

Strengthen, &c. Quoted in Hebrews 12:11, Hebrews 12:12.

Verse 5

Then the eyes, &c. When Messiah came, these miracles (not miracles qua miracles) were the evidence that He had indeed come to save His People (Matthew 11:1-6), but they rejected Him. Hence, this with other similar prophecies are in abeyance. John had based his own claims on Isaiah 40:3, while the Lord based His claims on Isaiah 35:5-6.

Verse 8

highway. See note on Isaiah 7:3. Occurs only here.

The way, &c. = the holy road.

but, &c. : i.e. yet for those very persons it will exist.

err therein = go astray.

Verse 9

No lion shall be there, &c. Reference to Pentateuch (Leviticus 26:6). App-92.

Verse 10

their heads. Put by Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Part), for themselves.

sighing. See note on Isaiah 21:2. Isaiah 40 takes up this theme, after the historical episode of Isaiah 36-39, which is necessary for the understanding of the references to the Assyrian invasion. For the general notes on this chapter see notes on 2 Kings 18:13, 2 Kings 20:19.