The reading of Vaetchanan always coincides with the Shabbat after the observance of Tisha B'Av. The first, in the series of seven haftarot from the Book of Isaiah, is read. These readings share a message of comfort, hope and renewal. Most scholars believe that the last 26 chapters of the Book of Isaiah are attributable to an anonymous prophet who lived in Babylonia during the period of the Babylonian Exile. This prophet proclaimed that Judah would indeed be restored and that its people would return to their beloved city of Jerusalem. The prophet asserts that Judah's punishment is over. The time of restoration has arrived.

The opening words of the haftarah are the source of the name for this Shabbat. "Nahamu, nahamu ami," Isaiah proclaims. The prophet calls upon others to offer Judah the gift of comfort. Therefore, this Shabbat is called, "Shabbat Nahamu". The prophet maintains that G-d will uphold his word and restore Jerusalem. "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our G-d shall stand forever." The Second Isaiah portrays an infinitely powerful G-d who will keep His word to His people. "To whom them will you compare Me, that I should be equal? Says the Holy One." The majestic poetry of the Second Isaiah has inspired Jews throughout the centuries. His vision was fulfilled in his own time and in ours, with the establishment of the State of Israel and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

The seven haftarot of comfort are read each Shabbat from the Shabbat after Tisha B'Av until the arrival of Rosh Hashanah.