The Creation of Darkness and Evil (Isaiah 45:6c-7)

Abstract

The oracle which names Cyrus as the messiah contains a passage which declares that Yhwh is the one who makes not only light and peace, but also creates darkness and evil (Isa 45:6c-7). This article looks at how this unique statement has been interpreted by commentators, and then proposes how it ought to be understood on the basis of a new analysis of the verse. This analysis explores how the words of the passage are used elsewhere in Isaiah 40-55, and takes into consideration the socio-historical situation and the religious environment of the prophet's addressees. The prophet emerges as arguing against adherents to Babylonian religion; Iranian dualism, however, is not on his mind.