Thou hast multiplied the nation, thou hast increased their joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.
Even in the darkest hour, God's people possess a nevertheless: they are troubled yet not forsaken, sorrowful yet always rejoicing. The God who forms light and creates darkness has set bounds to both; He can say to the dimness, Thus far you shall go and no further. This is our comfort when all grows black.
AI summary
Commenting on Isaiah 9:1-7
Thou hast multiplied the nation, [and] increased the joy: they rejoice before thee according to the joy in harvest, [and] as [men] rejoice when they divide the spoil. (g) Their number was greater when they went into captivity then when they returned but their joy was greater at their return, .
Isa 9:3 In Isa 9:3 he says, in words of thanksgiving and praise: “Thou multipliest the nation, preparest it great joy; they rejoice before Thee like the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they share the spoil.” “The nation” (haggoi) is undoubtedly Israel, reduced to a small remnant.