The Sealed Book of Isaiah [Isaiah 29: 11–12]: According to EOTC Interpretation

Abstract

This article examines the theological depth and interpretive Tradition of the Book of Isaiah as understood in the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, where it is referred to as "däräqǝ ḫädisǝ". This designation highlights Isaiah’s unique prophetic role in unveiling the divine mystery of the Incarnation the Word of God becoming incarnated. The study explores how Isaiah, through divine revelation, expressed this profound mystery in a way that transcends purely human understanding. One central example is Isaiah 53:1, which asks, "Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?" This passage illustrates the spiritual complexity that often renders prophetic texts difficult to interpret without theological insight.

The problem addressed in this research is the difficulty many readers experience when engaging with the prophetic literature of the Bible, especially without proper exegetical guidance. The main objective is to demonstrate how the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church Tradition provides a necessary interpretive framework for understanding such texts. The research employs qualitative methods, analyzing biblical passages in light of Church teachings and theological Tradition.

The findings reveal that the Book of Isaiah cannot be fully comprehended through literal reading alone; it requires contextual and theological interpretation rooted in Orthodox Tradition. The study concludes that applying this structured approach helps uncover the hidden meanings of prophecy, particularly regarding the Incarnation. This article contributes new insights by highlighting the unique role of Ethiopian Orthodox hermeneutics in Biblical interpretation, setting it apart from other traditions in terms of depth and doctrinal consistency.