Ἠσαΐας

Isaiah

Definition

Ἠσαΐας (Isaiah) is the Greek form of the name of the major Old Testament prophet. In the New Testament, it refers exclusively to the historical prophet Isaiah, son of Amoz, who authored the biblical book bearing his name. The name itself means 'Yahweh is salvation,' which is significant as his prophecies centrally concern God's saving work. The New Testament authors quote from the Book of Isaiah more than any other prophet, using it to demonstrate that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of Isaiah's messianic promises (e.g., Matthew 8:17 citing Isaiah 53:4).

Biblical Usage

The name Ἠσαΐας is used 21 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels and Romans. Its usage consistently introduces quotations from the prophet's book to validate the identity and mission of Jesus. For example, Matthew 3:3 cites Isaiah 40:3 to identify John the Baptist as the prophesied forerunner, and Romans 9:27 quotes Isaiah to discuss God's remnant. The pattern is authoritative citation; the name is invoked to ground New Testament events and theology in established prophetic scripture.

Etymology

Ἠσαΐας is a direct transliteration of the Hebrew name יְשַׁעְיָהוּ (Yeshayahu), meaning 'Yahweh is salvation.' The Greek form was standardized in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament), from which the New Testament authors directly adopted it. The name's meaning encapsulates the core theme of the prophet's message.

Semantic Range

Isaiah is profoundly significant theologically as the prophet whose writings most comprehensively foretell the Messiah. Understanding the Greek Ἠσαΐας connects readers directly to the textual source the apostles used (the Septuagint) to prove Jesus was the promised suffering servant (Isaiah 53) and the anointed king. His prophecies form a critical bridge between the Testaments, establishing continuity in God's plan of salvation.

In the first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman world, Isaiah was revered as a major prophet. Citing 'Isaiah' carried authoritative weight, similar to citing a foundational legal or philosophical text. For the New Testament authors, using the Greek name signaled to their audience that they were appealing to a recognized and sacred prophetic tradition.

προφήτης (prophētēs, G4396) — A general term for 'prophet'; Ἠσαΐας is a specific instance. Μωϋσῆς (Mōusēs, G3475) — Another major figure (Moses) frequently cited alongside Isaiah as representing the Law and the Prophets (e.g., Luke 16:29, 31).

Word Details

Scripture References