Old Testament
Isaiah 11:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
A nursing child will play by the hole of a cobra, and a weaned child will put his hand on a viper's den.
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And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice’ den.
What Isaiah 11:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Isaiah paints a picture of peace and safety in a future time when God’s kingdom is established. It describes a scenario where even the most vulnerable, like nursing and weaned children, can play near dangerous creatures like cobras and vipers without fear. This imagery suggests a complete transformation of nature and relationships, where former enemies coexist harmoniously. The presence of children playing near snakes symbolizes innocence and the absence of danger, indicating that the world will be restored to a state of safety and tranquility. This vision reflects the hope for a time when God’s justice and righteousness will prevail, leading to a new era of peace for all creation. It emphasizes the idea that in God’s kingdom, fear and danger will be eliminated, allowing for a joyful and secure existence for everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
How to apply Isaiah 11:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's promise of peace and safety. In our lives, we can seek to create environments where everyone, especially the vulnerable, feels secure and protected. It reminds us to foster harmony and understanding in our communities, reflecting the peace of God's kingdom.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 11:8 mean?
Isaiah 11:8 describes a future time of peace where children can play safely near dangerous animals like cobras and vipers. This imagery symbolizes a world transformed by God's kingdom, where fear and danger are eliminated, allowing for harmony and safety.
What is the significance of children playing with snakes in Isaiah 11:8?
The image of children playing with snakes in Isaiah 11:8 highlights innocence and the absence of danger. It represents a complete transformation of nature and relationships, indicating a time of peace and security in God's kingdom.
How does Isaiah 11:8 relate to God's kingdom?
Isaiah 11:8 reflects the hope for God's kingdom, where justice and righteousness prevail, leading to a new era of peace. It emphasizes that in this kingdom, fear and danger will be removed, creating a secure environment for all.
What themes are present in Isaiah 11:8?
Isaiah 11:8 encompasses themes of peace, safety, innocence, transformation, and hope. It portrays a vision of harmony in God's kingdom, where former enemies coexist peacefully and the vulnerable are protected.
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