Definition: But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 7:12. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious passage in the Old Testament! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Isaiah 7:12 is essentially saying that King Ahaz, who was the king of Judah, is about to have a baby – a boy – who will be incredibly significant. He’s expressing a sense of reluctance and perhaps even fear about what's coming. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But Ahaz said…” : This tells us we're talking about King Ahaz, who was the king of Judah during a time of great political turmoil. “…I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD.” : This is the crucial part. It means that King Ahaz refuses to plead with God for help or guidance. He's deliberately choosing not to seek divine intervention or support. What does this suggest? A Time of Crisis: This verse is often interpreted as a time of great difficulty and potential disaster for Judah. It’s like a moment where the kingdom is facing a serious challenge. A Test of Faith: It suggests that King Ahaz was testing God's character and readiness to answer his prayers. Perhaps he felt unprepared or hesitant to ask for help. A Promise of Future Glory: The verse also carries a significant hope. It’s saying that the child born of this pregnancy will be incredibly important – perhaps even divine in nature, and will bring about great blessings and glory for Judah. Important Note: The exact meaning and significance of Isaiah 7:12 have been debated by scholars for centuries. It's a complex verse that’s rich with symbolism and prophecy. In short, this verse speaks to a king who is reluctant to ask for help, hinting at a significant event about to happen that will shape the future. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Isaiah 7:12? Discuss the possible interpretations of this verse in more detail?