and perhaps provide some idea of how the earthquake during Uzziah’s reign would have been understood (note the effect on nature of Yahveh’s roaring from Zion in Amos 1:1–2). Isaiah’s reaction is also understandable in the present context (cf. Exod 3:6; Judg 6:22; 13:22), as he laments that his unclean lips make it impossible for him to participate in the seraphic liturgy. Purification of the lips (rather than, for example, the hands) indicates preparation for a specifically prophetic mission and
Page 226