Isaiah 8:1-18 NKJV (New King James Version) reads:
"Moreover, the Lord said:
"Hear, O house of Israel!
This is what the Lord says:
'You will not have a wise counselor or one who knows how to heed divine revelation.
The people's eyes are blind,
And they cannot see;
Their minds are numb,
And they cannot hear.'
"For these people draw near me with their mouths
and honor me with their lips,
But their hearts are far from me.
"And though I have multiplied my revelations,
They are full of divination and false prophets.
Even so, the law is paralyzed,
And justice never goes forth.
For the priest takes from the people by means of extortion,
And they deceive everyone with a false sense of security.'"
This passage is part of Isaiah's warning to Israel about their sin and rebellion against God. The Lord says that His people will not have wise counselors or those who can heed divine revelation because they are spiritually blind and numb.
The passage also speaks about the corruption among Israel's leaders, including priests who take advantage of the people for personal gain and deceive them with a false sense of security.
Isaiah 8:18 specifically says:
"Look, I will wait expectantly for the Lord!
I will put my hope in Him.
"And this is what He has said:
'You will call His name "God Who Seeks Out Those to Be Pitied,"'
and 'On the One Whom They Have Pierced He Will See Children,
And also He will accomplish His pleasure; He will prosper in His way.'"
This passage expresses Isaiah's trust and hope in God, despite the dire situation Israel is in.
Isaiah 8 is a fascinating passage in the Bible. Here's what it says in the NIV translation:
**Isaiah 8:1-22 (NIV)**
1 Then the Lord said to me, "Take your wife Sheol and go, you and the rest of the people whom I have taken."
2 And I took my wife Sheol, together with all the people whom I had taken. In that day,” declares the Lord, “I will banish from the land the names and remembrances of the false gods—the Baals and Asherahs.
3 I will remove from this place your idols and the incense altars you have set up. You can’t stand the sight of these things; so how can you say to me, ‘Do not forsake us completely’?
4 The Lord Almighty has sworn, saying: “Just as you have been an angel, a mediator and instructor for good things to your people in Dan’s land, you will see it and wait at the entrance to Gilead.”
5 So I will bring back my exiled people Israel; they will rebuild the ruined cities and live there. They will plant vineyards and eat their fruit.
6 The Lord Almighty has sworn that his words against the land will not be revoked: the people in a nearby city will go barefoot, while those far away will wear out their sandals.
7 You, then, Daniel son of useekirite from the tribe of Ephraim, this is what the Sovereign Lord says:
8 “Before the boys learn to rebuke one another, or the elderly grow tired and stop, my people will live in peaceful vocation forever.”
9 Hear that, you fools! They have been wise for the sake of the earth; they are being foolish, and their wickedness is not this way.
10 This is what the Lord says: “Entirely, completely, utterly—these things will be done. He has spoken, and it is going to happen.”
11 The Lord has given me a message, saying: “This people is too weak for such things; they have no power left. Those who say to a tree, ‘Be carved into a weapon!’—and to a stone, ‘Be raised as an offering!’—will be overthrown by the first strong breeze.
12 The Lord Almighty has spoken: “Because you have done these things and have not kept my laws or followed my rules, but have been like the people of Canaan, I will soon bring a distant nation against you—a people from far away. It is the king of Assyria;” he says.
13 And though they have heard about him, the Lord has said: “These people are like a tree in the forest that is shaken by wind; they will be taken captive and fall.”
14 That’s what the Sovereign Lord says: “This will happen to those who trust in their own strength, whose hearts are turned away from me—those who are among the people of Judah. They will be taken captive, and none will remain.
15 When you bring a tree stump to the forest, or plant one in its place, it will be a reminder that there is no other God besides me; I am the Holy One among you.
16 Make an agreement with Me,” declares the Lord who is making this covenant. “I will take away your sins and forgive you for all the things you have done to displease me.
17 Sing of the sweetness of deliverance! Let the people rejoice in what the Lord has done—because he has brought back his people, Israel.
18 And though I sent them into exile among the nations because they had been disobedient, yet this is not the end. This is not the end,” declares the Sovereign Lord.
19 When that day comes, the city will be built on a foundation of justice and righteousness—nothing but level ground where people can walk, no obstacles to trip over.
20 The Sovereign Lord has spoken: “The land will be ruined because those who live there have rebelled against me. They have followed idols and have been untrue to their God’s covenant.
21 I will not look on them with pity or spare them but I will bring ruin upon them, and though they cry out to me, I will not listen.”
22 So the Sovereign Lord says: “This is what you people should be doing—and I will not be silent until the time passes and a remnant remains—like a branch from the stump of Jesse. The Spirit of God will rest on him, so that he can call out wisely, ‘Shall I attack this land?’ And he will say, ‘I will strike the nations with my fist.’"
**Isaiah 8:19-20 (NIV) - A specific warning**
In verses 19-20, Isaiah warns of a coming judgment on Judah because they have rebelled against God and followed idols. This passage is often seen as a warning to Israel and Judah not to trust in their own strength or follow other gods.
**Key takeaways from Isaiah 8:1-22**
1. God will judge those who trust in themselves rather than Him.
2. He will restore His people, Israel, and rebuild the ruined cities.
3. The false gods (Baals and Asherahs) will be banished from the land.
4. God's Word is absolute and cannot be revoked.
These passages offer a mix of judgment and restoration, reminding us that God is both just and merciful.
Isaiah 8 is a significant passage in the book of Isaiah, which is a prophetic book in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. The passage can be divided into three main sections:
**Section 1: God's judgment on Judah (Isaiah 8:1-4)**
The chapter begins with Isaiah's wife, who becomes pregnant and gives birth to a son. The child is named Maher-shalal-hash-baz, which means "hurry to the spoil" or "make haste to plunder." This name symbolizes God's judgment on Judah, as if they were to plunder their enemies.
**Section 2: God's warning to Hezekiah (Isaiah 8:5-10)**
The second section is a direct address from God to King Hezekiah of Judah. God warns Hezekiah that his kingdom will be besieged by the Assyrian army, but Hezekiah should not fear because God will deliver him.
**Section 3: The coming of the Messiah (Isaiah 8:11-18)**
The final section is a prophetic message about the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah writes that when the Assyrians come to Judah, they will only reach as far as the Valley of Vision before being defeated. This is a reference to the Messiah who will one day come and deliver Israel from its enemies.
**Key takeaways:**
1. God's judgment on Judah: The passage highlights God's judgment on Judah for their sin and rebellion against Him.
2. Hezekiah's warning: God warns Hezekiah of an impending attack by the Assyrians, but also promises His protection and deliverance.
3. The coming Messiah: Isaiah prophesies about the coming Messiah who will one day deliver Israel from its enemies and bring salvation.
Overall, Isaiah 8 emphasizes God's sovereignty over human events, His judgment on sin, and His promise of salvation through the coming Messiah.
A great choice!
Isaiah 9:6 is one of the most famous and beloved prophecies in the Bible:
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
This verse is often referred to as the "Messiah Prophecy" because it describes the coming of Jesus Christ in vivid detail. Here's a breakdown of what each phrase means:
* "For unto us a child is born": This is a declaration that a new birth has taken place, and this birth is for God's people.
* "unto us a son is given": The word "son" is significant here because it emphasizes the idea of a human being who is both divine and human. In Jewish culture, a son was considered a representative of his father, so this phrase highlights Jesus' role as the Son of God.
* "and the government shall be upon his shoulder": This phrase suggests that Jesus will have authority and power to govern, but in a way that's different from human governments. The word "shoulder" may also imply that Jesus will carry the weight of responsibility for all nations.
* "and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace": This is a list of five names or titles that describe Jesus' character and mission:
+ "Wonderful" (Hebrew: pele), which means "remarkable" or "astonishing."
+ "Counsellor" (Hebrew: satsa), which means "wise" or "instructive."
+ "Mighty God" (Hebrew: el gibbor), which emphasizes Jesus' divine power and authority.
+ "Everlasting Father" (Hebrew: ab ibom), which highlights Jesus' eternal nature and his role as the Father of all believers.
+ "The Prince of Peace" (Hebrew: sar shalom), which emphasizes Jesus' mission to bring peace between God and humanity.
This prophecy is often seen as a fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who was born to bring light and salvation to the world.
Isaiah 7 is a fascinating chapter in the Bible that contains a significant prophecy related to the birth of Jesus Christ. Here's a brief overview:
**The Context**
In Isaiah 7, the prophet Isaiah receives a vision from God regarding King Ahaz, who was the king of Judah at that time (circa 735-715 BC). Ahaz had refused to seek God's guidance and was instead seeking help from Assyria, which was a powerful empire. God is displeased with Ahaz's actions and sends Isaiah to deliver a message.
**The Prophecy**
Isaiah prophesies that within a short period of time (before the king's death), the house of David will experience a significant event: "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14 KJV).
The word "virgin" in Hebrew is "almah," which can also mean "young woman." However, the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) translated it as "parthenos," meaning a literal virgin. The prophecy is often seen as a prediction of Jesus' birth, as He was born of a virgin (Mary) and His name means "God with us" or "Immanuel."
**The Sign**
Isaiah also gives King Ahaz a sign to verify the authenticity of this prophecy: "Ask for yourself a sign, whether from the Lord your God; make it deep as the place where the river Noph flows, or wide as the Nile River—yet have no fear, and do not let it be frightening to you" (Isaiah 7:11-12 KJV). Ahaz refuses to ask for a sign, indicating his lack of faith.
**The Significance**
The prophecy in Isaiah 7 is significant because it points to the future birth of Jesus Christ, who would be born of a virgin and have a divine nature. This prophecy is often seen as a precursor to other Old Testament prophecies that point to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
Do you have any specific questions about this passage or its significance?
Isaiah 8 in the New Living Translation (NLT) is a powerful passage that speaks of God's judgment and warning to Israel. Here's a brief summary:
**Isaiah 8:1-4**: The Lord says to Isaiah, "Make a plan for a sign and write 'Maher-shalal-hash-baz' on it." This name means "The spoil speeds; the prey hastens" or "The swift plunder seizes."
**Isaiah 8:5-10**: The prophet is told that before this child ( Maher-shalal-hash-baz) knows how to reject evil or choose good, the land will be devastated by war and chaos. The Israelites are warned that God's judgment is coming because they have rejected Him.
**Isaiah 8:11-15**: Isaiah is instructed to make his people hear this message: "Hear me, you stubborn people! You are as stubborn as the mighty forest of Lebanon; as strong as the beasts that roam its fields. The Lord has a way with the mighty; He brings them down and makes them fall. But even the strongest can stumble."
**Isaiah 8:16-18**: Isaiah warns his people to go back to their ancestors for guidance, saying, "Before your troubles came, you spoke boastfully. From that day on, take note! Come back to me, all of you who have revolted." God is seeking a turning point in His relationship with Israel.
**Isaiah 8:19-22**: Isaiah concludes by warning his people not to follow false prophets or seek guidance from the dead. Instead, they should listen to Him, their only true God.
In summary, Isaiah 8 is a call to repentance and a warning of impending judgment if Israel does not turn back to God. The passage highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and His desire for His people to return to Him.
Isaiah 8:18 is another fascinating passage!
The verse reads:
"Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for a sign and a wonder in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth even on Mount Zion."
In this passage, Isaiah is emphasizing his prophetic role and that of his children. He's saying that they will serve as a "sign" and "wonder" to the people of Israel, pointing them to the presence and power of God.
The phrase "whom the Lord hath given me" likely refers to the prophet's own children, Maher-shalal-hash-baz (meaning "hurry to the spoil") and Shear-jashub (meaning "a remnant shall return"). These names are significant because they contain prophetic messages about the coming judgment and redemption of Israel.
Isaiah is essentially saying that he and his family will be a visible demonstration of God's power and presence, a reminder to Israel of God's sovereignty over all things. This passage may have been written during a time when Isaiah was facing opposition or skepticism from the people of Israel, but he remains steadfast in his calling as a prophet of God.
How do you interpret this passage? Would you like me to explore it further?
Isaiah 8 in the King James Version (KJV) is a powerful passage that speaks to God's judgment on Israel and the importance of following His guidance. Here are some key verses and insights:
**Isaiah 8:1-4**
"These shall hurry and come all hastily.
The spoiling of spoil, and the residue of strength
To the covetous shall I give no more a people to inherit,
But hearken now thus, O house of Jacob, is it not I who have kept silence while many years,
That I would not hold my peace? Though I should speak, and men would not hear;
In vain did I cry out, but they did not answer."
* This passage speaks of judgment coming upon Israel because of their sin.
* God is saying that He has been patient and silent for a long time, giving them opportunities to repent, but they have refused.
**Isaiah 8:5-8**
"Therefore thus saith the Lord unto the house of Jacob,
Who dwellest in Shur, even unto them that say in their heart,
Let me alone; all right are mine:
Therefore he shall give them a portion in Israel;
And the dispossessor's spoil shall be sanctified of strength,
And the mighty of the people by his arm.
And He shall say, These have rested upon Me from My youth;
Therefore they shall be delivered to their portion."
* This passage speaks of God's sovereignty and His plan for Israel.
* God is saying that even though Israel has rejected Him, He still intends to give them a place in His kingdom.
**Isaiah 8:9-13**
"And the multitude of all the nations,
That fight against Ariel, even all about her round about,
And go forth all of her strong holds, shall be as a dream of a night vision.
But thus shall the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem;
The Lord will certainly plead the cause thereof at this time.
For thus saith the Lord concerning the house of the wicked,
Of them that work at every high place, that swear falsely
And burn incense upon the altars.
Therefore behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people,
Even a wonderful work: for it shall not be cut off."
* This passage speaks of God's protection and deliverance of Jerusalem.
* God is saying that He will defend His city against all nations and enemies who come against it.
**Isaiah 8:14-18**
"And he shall turn the heart of the priests the sons of Zadok
And of all that do cleave a lie.
Behold, I will bring them all back from Babylon,
Saith the Lord; yea, and they shall fight against mount Zion,
And shall possess it;
But the possession of the land of the Hezronites shall be to the house of Judah.
The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw:
When Ahaz sent unto him, saying,
Let the priest's daughter prophesy concerning this place.
And he said, Hear ye now, O house of David;
Is it a small thing for you to weary men?
But will ye weary my God also?"
* This passage speaks of God's judgment on the priests and the people who have turned away from Him.
* God is saying that He will bring back those who are exiled and restore the land to Judah, but they must repent and turn back to Him.
Overall, Isaiah 8 in the KJV emphasizes God's sovereignty, His plan for Israel, and His judgment on those who refuse to follow Him.