Isaiah 35:9 – “No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there,”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Isaiah 35:9 paints a picture of safety and security along the “Way of Holiness” mentioned in the previous verse. The absence of lions or ravenous beasts symbolizes a path protected from harm and danger. This highway is reserved for “the redeemed,” those whom God has rescued and made His own.

The verse underscores that this is a journey marked by God’s protection, where nothing can threaten or harm His people. The focus is on God’s care for His redeemed, ensuring their safe passage to the place of restoration and joy.

Historical Context

Isaiah wrote during a time when physical and spiritual threats were very real for Israel and Judah. The imagery of lions and ravenous beasts would have resonated with his audience, as travelers in ancient times faced dangers from wild animals and bandits.

The promise of a safe, holy road offered reassurance to the Israelites, pointing both to their return from exile and to the ultimate restoration God promised for His people. It also reflected their longing for a world where evil and danger no longer have power.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights God’s power to protect His people and His ability to create a space free from harm and evil. The absence of lions and ravenous beasts represents the removal of threats, both physical and spiritual, as part of God’s redemptive work. It also reinforces the exclusivity of the path: only those redeemed by God can walk on it.

This passage points to the future hope of God’s kingdom, where His people will dwell in perfect peace and safety, free from all threats.

Literary Analysis

The verse uses vivid imagery to communicate safety and protection. Lions and ravenous beasts, common symbols of danger, are explicitly excluded from the highway, emphasizing its security. The contrast between these dangerous creatures and “the redeemed” creates a clear distinction between those who threaten and those who are protected.

The repetition of safety-related themes throughout the chapter reinforces the overarching message of restoration, hope, and God’s sovereignty.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Psalm 91:13: “You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.”

• Isaiah 11:6-9: A vision of peace where even natural enemies, like lions and lambs, coexist without harm.

• John 10:28: Jesus promises, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”

• Revelation 21:27: Nothing impure or harmful will enter the New Jerusalem, only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians, Isaiah 35:9 serves as a reminder of God’s power to protect and preserve His people. It reassures believers that, in Christ, they are safe from ultimate harm, even when facing challenges in this life. The absence of danger on the “Way of Holiness” encourages Christians to trust in God’s guidance and provision as they walk with Him.

This verse also inspires hope for the future, pointing to the day when God will fully establish His kingdom and eliminate all forms of evil and harm.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love through His protection and care for His people. His provision of a safe path demonstrates His commitment to guiding and safeguarding the redeemed. By excluding all threats from the highway, God shows His deep concern for the well-being of those who belong to Him.

God’s love is also evident in His promise of restoration, where His people will live in peace and safety forever.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of this verse. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus makes a way for believers to walk the path of holiness, free from the power of sin and evil. As the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), Jesus protects His flock, ensuring their safety and leading them to eternal life.

The promise of no threats or harm on this path also points to the new heaven and new earth described in Revelation 21-22, where Jesus reigns as King and all danger and evil are removed forever.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

• How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s protection and care?

• What does it mean to you to be one of “the redeemed” who walk on this path?

• How does this promise of safety and security shape your view of challenges in your current life?

• How does Jesus fulfill the hope of a safe and holy way described in this verse?

• How can you share the hope of God’s protection and redemption with others who are struggling?

Isaiah 35:9 offers a powerful message of hope and safety for God’s people. Through Jesus Christ, believers can walk the path of holiness with confidence, knowing they are protected and guided by God’s love. Let this verse inspire you to trust in His care, live with courage, and share the promise of His redemption with others.