Old Testament
Isaiah 7:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The capital of Ephraim is Samaria, and the leader of Samaria is Remaliah's son. If you do not believe, you will not be established.
Compare translations
And the head of Ephraim is Samaria, and the head of Samaria is Remaliah’s son. If ye will not believe, surely ye shall not be established.
What Isaiah 7:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 7:9, the prophet Isaiah is addressing King Ahaz of Judah during a time of crisis. He emphasizes the importance of faith, stating that the capital of Ephraim, Samaria, and its leader, Remaliah's son, are significant in the context of the threats facing Judah. The verse highlights that without belief in God's promises and support, Ahaz and his kingdom will not stand firm against their enemies. This message serves as a reminder that trust in God is essential for stability and security, especially in challenging times. Isaiah is urging Ahaz to have faith in God's ability to protect and deliver His people, rather than relying solely on political alliances or military strength. The call to believe is not just a suggestion but a crucial condition for being established and secure in the face of adversity.
How to apply Isaiah 7:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to place our trust in God, especially during difficult times. Just as Ahaz was reminded of the importance of faith, we too must rely on God's promises for our stability and security. Believing in God's plan can help us navigate life's challenges with confidence.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: A Sign for Ahaz (Isaiah 7:1–17)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Isaiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 7:9
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Isaiah 7:9
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 7:9 mean for modern believers?
Isaiah 7:9 emphasizes the necessity of faith in God for stability and security. For modern believers, this verse serves as a reminder that trusting in God's promises is crucial, especially during challenging times. Just as King Ahaz was urged to believe in God's protection, we too are encouraged to rely on our faith to navigate life's difficulties, rather than solely depending on our own strength or external circumstances.
How does Isaiah 7:9 relate to leadership?
In Isaiah 7:9, the mention of Ephraim's capital and its leader highlights the importance of wise and faithful leadership. For leaders today, this verse underscores the need to trust in God and seek His guidance in decision-making. Effective leadership is rooted in faith, as it influences the stability and direction of those being led. Leaders are called to inspire confidence in God's plans, especially during crises.
What is the significance of believing in God according to Isaiah 7:9?
Isaiah 7:9 stresses that belief in God is essential for being established and secure. The verse indicates that without faith, individuals and nations may falter in the face of adversity. This belief is not merely intellectual but involves a deep trust in God's promises and His ability to provide support and deliverance. It serves as a foundational principle for spiritual resilience and stability.
How can I apply Isaiah 7:9 in my life?
To apply Isaiah 7:9 in your life, focus on strengthening your faith in God, especially during tough times. Reflect on God's past faithfulness and promises, and actively choose to trust Him rather than relying solely on your own abilities or circumstances. Engage in prayer, seek guidance through Scripture, and surround yourself with a community that encourages faith. This approach can help you maintain stability and confidence in challenging situations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.