Isaiah 4

The Branch

Branch — a new shoot growing from a family tree; a prophetic title for the Messiah

In that day shall the branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel. Isaiah 4:2

The Branch is a hidden title of the Messiah used by several prophets. In the day of deliverance He will be beautiful and glorious to those who escape.

How we know: a Church study aid lists it

• the same title in Jeremiah 23:5 — A righteous Branch raised unto David, a King.
• the same title in Zechariah 3:8 — My servant the BRANCH.
• the same title in Zechariah 6:12 — The man whose name is The BRANCH shall build the temple.
• the same title in Isaiah 11:1 — A Branch shall grow out of Jesse's roots.
• a parallel account in 2 Nephi 14:2 — Nephi's copy.

The Lord washes Zion clean

When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning. Isaiah 4:4

The Lord Himself washes away His people's filth. It echoes the cleansing power of Christ, both through His Atonement and the purifying burning of His coming.

• a parallel account in 2 Nephi 14:4 — Nephi's copy.

Jehovah's presence as refuge over Zion

And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defence. Isaiah 4:5–6

Just as Jehovah led Israel out of Egypt as a pillar of cloud and fire, His presence will rest over Zion as shelter and refuge. The Lord Himself is the safe place from the storm.

• alludes to Exodus 13:21-22 — The pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.
• alluded to by D&C 115:6 — Zion and her stakes are a defense and a refuge from the storm.
• a parallel account in 2 Nephi 14:5-6 — Nephi's copy.