TritoIsaiah

Trito-Isaiah is the scholarly designation for the third major compilation within the Book of Isaiah, covering Isaiah chapters 56 through 66. The label identifies a distinct set of prophetic writings that follows the parts traditionally called Proto-Isaiah (chapters 1–39) and Deutero-Isaiah (chapters 40–55). Trito-Isaiah is not a single author but a later, post-exilic collection within the Hebrew Bible.

Most scholars date Trito-Isaiah to the latter part of the Persian period, roughly from the late 6th century BCE into the 5th or early 4th century BCE, though exact dating remains debated. The material is associated with the post-exilic Jewish community in Judah and reflects concerns about rebuilding and reform, temple worship, and the integration of returning exiles with non-Israelite residents.

The composition is seen as multi-author or multi-layered, sharing language and concerns with Deutero-Isaiah while introducing distinct themes. It emphasizes renewal and consolation, a universalist vision that includes foreigners who join themselves to the LORD, and a strong focus on proper worship, justice, and righteousness. The text envisions a restored community centered on a reestablished temple cult, while also addressing social ethics, obedience to the covenant, and the proper conduct of worship.

Key themes include inclusion and repentance, salvation and judgment, and a forward-looking eschatology featuring new creation imagery in the later chapters. Trito-Isaiah thus contributes to the broader Isaiah tradition by presenting a post-exilic sense of hope, covenant fidelity, and a renewed temple-centered worship that speaks to both Jewish and later religious communities.