The haftarah of Shoftim is the fourth haftarah of consolation after the observance of Tisha B'Av, the Ninth of Av. The Second Isaiah or Isaiah of Babylon is the source of these beautiful words of comfort. The haftarah is from the 51st and 52nd chapters of Isaiah. The prophet speaks of the majestic power of the Almighty who "stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth."

The prophet addresses the abandoned city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem, in the prophetic imagery, has drunk from the divine cup of poison. Now, however, G-d will remove this putrid cup and Israel shall no longer drink from it. Isaiah calls to Jerusalem to greet her rebirth. "Awake, awake, put on your strength, O Zion; put on your beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city."

The prophet speaks of a messenger traveling to Zion with words of peace and the sovereignty of G-d. "For the L-rd has comforted His people. He has redeemed Jerusalem." The beautiful words of the prophet offered comfort to a nation in exile. They continue to speak to us today.

The haftarah of Shoftim is the fourth haftarah of consolation after the observance of Tisha B'Av, the Ninth of Av. The Second Isaiah or Isaiah of Babylon is the source of these beautiful words of comfort. The haftarah is from the 51st and 52nd chapters of Isaiah. The prophet speaks of the majestic power of the Almighty who "stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth."