The dimness and spiritual darkness of the kingdom of Israel is contrasted to the great light that will be seen in the exact same geographic location when the Lord begins His ministry. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali encompass what was known in Christ’s day as Galilee. Compare the land of inheritance of Zebulun and Naphtali with the region of Galilee where Jesus ministered (maps 5 & 14 in 1990 editions; maps 3 and 11 in newer 1999 edition of maps). It is apparent that Isaiah is prophesying the location where the great light of Jesus Christ will be made manifest to his people. It will be made manifest in Galilee, in the towns of Cana, Capernaum, Nazareth, Chorazin, Gennesaret, etc. This prophecy was referred to by Matthew who wrote:
’And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying,
The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;
The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.’ (Matt 4:13-16).