Old Testament

Isaiah 8:3

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah visits a woman referred to as the prophetess, who gives birth to a son.

Author
Isaiah the prophet
Written
Around 700 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah and the surrounding nations
CBTClear Bible Translation

I went to the prophetess, and she became pregnant and gave birth to a son. The LORD told me, 'Name him Maher-shalal-hash-baz.'

KJVKing James Version

And I went unto the prophetess; and she conceived, and bare a son. Then said the LORD to me, Call his name Mahershalalhashbaz.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah visits a woman referred to as the prophetess, who gives birth to a son. This event is significant because it fulfills God's command to Isaiah to name the child Maher-shalal-hash-baz, which means 'swift is the booty, speedy is the prey.' This name symbolizes the impending judgment and swift consequences that would come upon Israel and its enemies. The birth of this child serves as a sign to the people, indicating that God is actively involved in their history and that His plans will unfold as foretold. The unusual name reflects the urgency of God's message and the seriousness of the situation facing the nation. It emphasizes that God is aware of their struggles and is preparing to act decisively against their adversaries, reminding them of His sovereignty and power. Explore related prophecy.

How to apply Isaiah 8:3 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize that God is involved in our lives and history. Just as Isaiah received a message through the birth of a child, we can find hope and direction in our circumstances. Trusting in God's plans can help us navigate challenges with faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 8:3 mean?

Isaiah 8:3 describes the prophet Isaiah visiting a woman known as the prophetess, who gives birth to a son named Maher-shalal-hash-baz. This name signifies the swift judgment and consequences that God would bring upon Israel and its enemies, serving as a sign of God's active involvement in their history.

What is the significance of the name Maher-shalal-hash-baz in Isaiah 8:3?

The name Maher-shalal-hash-baz means 'swift is the booty, speedy is the prey.' It symbolizes the urgency of God's impending judgment and the swift consequences that would follow for Israel and its adversaries.

How does Isaiah 8:3 relate to God's sovereignty?

Isaiah 8:3 illustrates God's sovereignty by showing that He directs events in history, such as the birth of the child and the specific name given. This reflects His control over the situation and His plans for judgment against Israel's enemies.

What can we learn from Isaiah 8:3?

From Isaiah 8:3, we learn that God is actively involved in our lives and history. The verse encourages us to trust in God's plans, as He is aware of our struggles and prepares to act in our favor.

The Book of Isaiah
Book Summary

The Book of Isaiah

Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You

The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.

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