- In Isaiah 45:1, Cyrus is referred to as “my annointed”. What is the meaning of this phrase in this context?
- Historically, why is Cyrus described in such praiseworthy terms?
- How does Isaiah 45:4 explain the “goodness” which is showered upon Cyrus?
- How do Isaiah 45:5-7 affirm, again, the “pure monotheism” of this prophet’s thinking?
- And in Isaiah 45:7, there is a refrain that appears in the tefillot of Shaharit — but with one major difference. What is that difference?
- And why did the prophet state the passage as it was stated — in order to reflect what as to the encompassing nature of Divinity?
- (And, en passant why was the passage changed for the siddur)?
- In Isaiah 45:13, to whom is reference made as the one who “will build My city and will send forth My exiles”?
- To whom will the Medes, the Egyptians, and the Ethiopians bow (Isaiah 45:14)?
- If salvation/ redemption is to come to Israel, what will be its source, at this time, and, indeed, at all times (Isaiah 45:17)?
- In Isaiah 45:18, there is theological assertion as to the genesis of creation — forthcoming from chaos or created by Divinity?
- In Isaiah 45:21, in addition to affirmation of the monotheistic conviction, what two attributes of Divinity are highlighted?
- In Isaiah 45:23 appears another refrain which is in the siddur at a number of points. Can you identify it?
