How Long Before Jesus- Unveiling the Time Gap Between the Writing of Isaiah and the Birth of Christ

How Long Before Jesus Was Isaiah Written?

The question of how long before Jesus was Isaiah written has intrigued scholars and theologians for centuries. Understanding the time gap between the writing of Isaiah and the birth of Jesus Christ is crucial for interpreting the New Testament and its references to the Old Testament prophecies. This article delves into the historical and textual evidence to shed light on this fascinating topic.

Historical Context

To determine the time frame between the writing of Isaiah and the birth of Jesus, we must first establish the approximate dates for both events. Isaiah, the prophet, is believed to have lived and written during the 8th century BCE. The New Testament, on the other hand, suggests that Jesus was born around 4 BCE. This puts the gap between the two events at approximately 800 years.

Textual Evidence

The Old Testament, including the book of Isaiah, was written in Hebrew. The New Testament, however, was originally written in Greek. The New Testament authors frequently引用了旧约中的预言，特别是以赛亚书中的预言，以证明耶稣基督的弥赛亚身份。 These references indicate that the Old Testament, including Isaiah, was already in circulation and recognized by the early Christian community.

Oral Tradition and the Septuagint

Before the Old Testament was written down, it was likely transmitted orally for generations. The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Old Testament, was completed around 200 BCE. This translation was widely used by the early Christians, suggesting that the Old Testament, including Isaiah, was well-known and respected by the time Jesus was born.

Interpretation and Significance

The time gap between the writing of Isaiah and the birth of Jesus has significant implications for the interpretation of the New Testament. The New Testament authors, such as Matthew and Luke, drew upon the Old Testament prophecies to demonstrate that Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s promises. Understanding the time frame between the two events helps us appreciate the depth of their interpretation and the importance of the Old Testament in the Christian faith.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of how long before Jesus was Isaiah written is approximately 800 years. This time gap is significant for understanding the historical context and interpretation of the New Testament. By examining the textual evidence and the oral tradition that preceded the written word, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the relationship between the Old and New Testaments and the role of Isaiah in the Christian faith.