Prophet · 8th century BC
Isaiah
Holy Prophet Isaiah
New Calendar May 9 Old Calendar May 22
Why they are a saint
Isaiah was the greatest of the writing prophets; saw the Lord on a high throne and foretold the Virgin's son. The years given for this life are 8th century BC. The faithful still hear that prophetic word in the services of the Church. The New Calendar feast is May 9.
Life
The Holy Prophet Isaiah lived 700 years before the birth of Christ and was of royal lineage; his father Amos raised him in the fear of God. He was called to prophesy in the reign of King Uzziah and prophesied for 60 years, under Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah and Manasseh.
His calling began with a vision of the Lord enthroned, surrounded by Seraphim crying 'Holy, Holy, Holy'. When he lamented his impure lips, a Seraph touched them with a burning coal, and to the Lord's question 'Whom shall I send?' he answered, 'Here am I, send me' (Isaiah 6). Through his prayer the Lord prolonged King Hezekiah's life by fifteen years.
He died a martyr, sawn in two by order of King Manasseh, and was buried near the Pool of Siloam. His relics were later taken to Constantinople by Theodosius the Younger; part of his head is kept at Hilandar Monastery on Mount Athos.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Isaiah as a patron when they bear the name Isaiah at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on May 9. As a prophet, he is also honored by those who seek to hear and keep God's word.
Prayer
O holy Isaiah, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.