Curriculum for Sefer Yishayahu

The following chart lists chapters/ sections that are particularly appropriate for your ישעיה classes. Needless to say, all of the chapters in ישעיהו are great and important; even the ones not listed here. Nonetheless, I hope the selection here will be helpful.

I have also included a list of הפטרות that are taken from ישעיהו in the order of the ספר. This is included for your information. I believe we should focus on the ספר rather than on the הפטרות. Nonetheless, it is of value to bear in mind which sections are הפטרות.

While we are on the subject of הפטרות, please note that in addition to the many מפרשים and other resources available on ספר ישעיה in general, there are resources that specifically address the הפטרות. Two examples of this that are worth keeping in mind are the commentary of רש”ר הירש and the חזון המקרא.

Some of the key topics are noted here briefly to facilitate choosing which sections each teacher wishes to focus on for their classes. (It goes with out saying that this is not comprehensive). Those sections that are noted by an asterisk are especially crucial to the ספר and should be done in all classes to the degree possible.

Please consider which sections are most suited to your classes, so that you can choose which chapters you wish do, rather than having the end of the year decide for you. This is especially important in teaching ישעיהו, as  it really makes sense to focus on the second half of the ספר.

This guide lists more chapters than most classes will get to. Please choose the ones that fit your teaching style and are most appropriate for the level and class you are teaching. [Note: chapters 36-39 are virtually chapters of ספר מלכים and are therefore not included here, as we learn מלכים freshman year.]

Finally, please note that there are 2 sections that deserve special attention: Chapter 7 and 52:13-53:12. These are famous texts used by missionaries as “sources” for “virgin birth” and “suffering servant” beliefs, respectively. Looking at what is really meant by these sources is fascinating and beneficial. It also affords an opportunity to consider many key methodological points of peshat, such as context, cross-referencing and proper translation. Please note that Rabbi Tovia Singer has excellent tapes on these texts that are very helpful- Mrs. Geller informed me that we have two copies in the library.

Much הצלחה inspiring and educating the students!

Have a great summer,

Yitzchak Twersky