Verses 5-6 return to the theme in 2 Nephi 12:2–5. Isaiah begins with a declaration of building Yahweh’s dwelling place, then recounts the judgments that will be necessary before that event. He closes the vision by repeating the beginning image of building Yahweh’s dwelling.
The “smoke by day” and “fire by night” alludes to Israel’s experience of being led by God out of Egypt: “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night” (Ex. 13:21). The “glory of Zion” refers to Yahweh’s physical presence, underscoring the point that God, not man, will protect them.
The “tabernacle” (v. 6) also alludes to Yahweh’s leading Israel to the promised land. As the equivalent of their temple, it will shelter them. This verse lists natural elements, which symbolize adversity and danger. Yahweh’s dwelling is not an ordinary tent to deflect physical rain, but rather a special shelter against all of the storms that assault the soul.
Likening: This chapter provides hope at the end of a destruction. After the war comes a time when “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 of Zion shall be a defence” (v. 5). Nephi has seen the future wars of his people. Isaiah declared that Yahweh would be their defense. Nephi echoes that plea.
Text: The chapter does not end here in the 1830 edition.