Definition: Moreover the LORD said unto me, Take thee a great roll, and write in it with a man’s pen concerning Mahershalalhashbaz.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from Isaiah. It’s a really significant prophecy – essentially, a vision that describes a terrifying future. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about a powerful, evil king named Mahershalalhashbaz who is about to rise up and cause great destruction. The Lord is telling someone (we can assume it's an angel or prophet) to write down a huge amount of information about this king. Let’s unpack the parts: “Isaiah 8:1” : This identifies the source – Isaiah, a prophet in ancient Jewish history. “Moreover the LORD said unto me…” : This is a direct address from God. He's communicating with someone specifically. “…Take thee a great roll, and write in it with a man’s pen concerning Mahershalalhashbaz.” : This is the core of the verse. The Lord instructs someone to create a massive scroll (a very large piece of parchment) and fill it with detailed information about this king. The "man's pen" suggests that it will be a meticulous and thorough record. What does this mean ? This is a warning about a future evil – a king who will: Become incredibly powerful: Mahershalalhashbaz was a very influential and powerful ruler in ancient Babylon. Cause widespread chaos and destruction: The verse implies he’ll be a threat to the entire region, leading to war, famine, and devastation. Be a symbol of evil: It's not just about him , but the act of writing down his details is symbolic – it’s like recording something that will inevitably lead to terrible things. Important Context (briefly): Isaiah 8:1 is part of a larger prophecy in Isaiah, which was revealed to Isaiah by God. It's often interpreted as predicting the rise of a wicked king who would ultimately bring about the destruction of Babylon and the entire region. --- Essentially, this verse is a warning – it’s saying that evil is coming, and we need to be aware of it. Do you want me to: Explain another part of Isaiah 8? Discuss the significance of the prophecy in more detail?

Definition: Take counsel together, and it shall come to nought; speak the word, and it shall not stand: for God [is] with us.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 8:10. It’s a really important message about faith and the power of God. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse is saying that if you try to do something big or important on your own, without God’s help, it will likely fail. Let's unpack each part: “Take counsel together…” : This means you should work with others – like a team or group of people. It’s about collaborating and getting input from others. “…and it shall come to nought…” : "Come to naught" means it will be unsuccessful, pointless, or have no result. It's like trying to build something without someone to help you. “Speak the word, and it shall not stand…” : This is where the key part lies. "Speak the word" refers to speaking your ideas, plans, or promises. “It shall not stand” means those words will crumble or fail because they aren’t supported by God's power or guidance. “For God [is] with us.” : This is the crucial part! It emphasizes that God isn’t just watching from afar; He’s actively involved and present with you and your efforts. He’s offering support and strength. In a nutshell, the verse warns against relying solely on your own power or ideas without God's guidance. It highlights the importance of seeking God's help and working in partnership with Him. Why is this important? The Bible often uses metaphors about needing someone to help us. This verse reminds us that true success comes from God’s blessings and assistance, not just our own efforts. Does this have a specific meaning in your life? Do you want me to: Explain it further with an example? Connect it to a particular story or event in the Bible?

Definition: For the LORD spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 8:11. It’s a really important passage about change and a warning. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling someone – likely a prophet or leader – to stop following a specific group of people who are causing trouble. It’s saying, "Don’t follow this path; it’s leading you astray." Let's unpack it word by word: “Isaiah 8:11” : This is the name of the book of Isaiah in the Bible. It's a prophecy (a prediction about the future). “For the LORD spake…” : This means "The Lord spoke..." or “God spoke…” It’s a way for God to communicate directly with someone. “…with a strong hand” : This shows that the message isn't gentle or easy. It’s serious and direct. “…instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people…” : This is the core of the verse. "This people" refers to a particular group – often depicted as rebellious, immoral, or destructive. The Lord is telling someone not to follow them. “saying,” : This indicates that God is giving a specific instruction or command. Putting it all together: Isaiah 8:11 essentially says that the Lord has told someone to avoid following a group of people who are causing problems and leading down a bad path. It’s a warning about resisting temptation or being influenced by something harmful. What does this mean in modern terms? This verse is often interpreted as a warning against: Following trends: Avoiding things that seem popular but might be destructive or wrong. Being swayed by negative influences: Protecting yourself from people, ideas, or situations that might lead you astray spiritually or morally. Important Note: This verse is part of a larger story about judgment and the coming of an heir (a king). It’s often seen as a foreshadowing of events in the Old Testament leading up to Jesus' birth and ministry. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with more context? Give you a quick summary of its meaning? Compare it to another Bible passage about warning or guidance?

Definition: Say ye not, A confederacy, to all [them to] whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important and often-quoted verse from Isaiah 8:12. It's a really powerful message about hope and the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying, “Don't be pessimistic about the future.” It warns against thinking of a situation that will involve fear and danger for everyone . Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Say ye not, A confederacy…” : This is where the warning starts. "Confederacy" means a secret agreement or alliance – something that benefits some people while harming others. It suggests a plan to hurt or oppress someone. “…to all [them] to” : This refers to everyone . It’s not just one group, but all the people God is calling to be saved. “whom this people shall say…” : This is the crucial part. It means "who this people" – specifically, those who are oppressed or suffering under a difficult situation. “A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.” : This is the core of the message. The verse warns against forming a secret agreement or plan to deliberately terrorize or harm these people. It's urging us to: Don’t anticipate danger: It tells us to not worry about what might happen. Don't be afraid: It encourages us to remain calm and confident, even in the face of adversity. What does this mean practically? This verse is a call to: Hope for a better future: It emphasizes that God’s plan involves a positive outcome – a restoration and deliverance for those who are suffering. Be optimistic: It reminds us that God is working for good, even when things seem bleak. In essence, Isaiah 8:12 is a message of encouragement and a plea to maintain hope during difficult times. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give you a quick summary of the verse’s significance? Provide a related story or example from the Bible?

Definition: Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and [let] him [be] your fear, and [let] him [be] your dread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Isaiah 8:13. It’s a really important message about God’s relationship with us. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse isn’t just saying “God is scary.” It’s saying that God wants a deep and respectful relationship with us. He wants to be acknowledged as powerful, significant, and worthy of his care. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself…” – This is a fancy way of saying “God Himself.” It’s referring to God in His full glory, the most powerful being imaginable. It’s not just any God; it’s the ultimate authority and presence. “…and [let] him [be] your fear…” – This means that God doesn't want us to be afraid of Him. Instead, we should have a genuine sense of awe and respect for His power and greatness. It’s not about terror; it’s about recognizing that He is above us and holds ultimate control. “…and [let] him [be] your dread…” – This is the most striking part. “Dread” means a feeling of intense fear, often because of something overwhelming. It signifies that we should be humbled by God's power and that we don’t underestimate Him. In short, Isaiah 8:13 is urging us to acknowledge God’s power and importance in our lives. It’s a call for reverence and respect – not because we fear him, but because we recognize his greatness. What does this mean practically? It means approaching God with humility, recognizing that He is greater than us, and understanding that His will and plan are ultimately important. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or concept from the Bible?

Definition: And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 8:14. It's a really interesting and symbolic passage about God’s plan for His people in Jerusalem. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God setting up a special system – a “sanctuary” – for Israel, but with a deliberately tricky and challenging design that will both protect them and push them into conflict. It's not just about being safe; it’s designed to test them and lead them towards division. Let's unpack the parts: “He shall be for a sanctuary…” – This means God is going to establish something that provides protection and safety for Israel, like a temple or a special place of refuge. It’s about giving them a safe haven. “…but for a stone of stumbling…” - Think of it as a hard, unyielding foundation. It's not meant to be easy to build on. This "stone" represents a time of intense challenge and difficulty – a period where Israel will face serious problems and setbacks. "...and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel…” - Now, this is where it gets interesting. The “rock” isn’t just about being difficult; it's going to provoke them! It means that this challenge will cause conflict between the different branches (or families) of Israel – the tribes. "...to both the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” - This is the final, crucial part. The “stone” isn’t just a geographical location; it's a symbolic place – Jerusalem itself. It means that this conflict will be felt deeply within the city and its people, causing significant division and trouble. In simpler terms: God is setting up a system to protect Israel, but with a deliberately difficult and challenging design that will lead to division and conflict between them. It’s a promise of turmoil and hardship for the future. What does this mean in the bigger picture? This verse often speaks about times of great upheaval and testing – like the time of Isaiah's prophecy. It suggests that God is working towards a greater outcome, even though it might seem harsh or difficult at the moment. It’s a message of challenge and ultimately, transformation. Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories? Discuss what "stone" could represent metaphorically?

Definition: And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 8:15. It’s a pretty serious warning, and it speaks about the potential for significant trouble and hardship coming for those who are involved in something that’s wrong or dangerous. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that there will be a lot of pain and difficulty for people who are participating in something that is harmful or deceptive. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Many among them” : This suggests that the problem isn’t just one person, but a group of people. It implies a widespread issue. “Shall stumble, and fall, and be broken…” : "Stumble" means to lose your way or make mistakes. “Fall” refers to a real, physical collapse – like a disaster. "Be broken" suggests being damaged or shattered by the situation. “…and be snared, and be taken.” : This is where it gets more evocative. "Snared" implies being caught in a trap or difficult situation. “Taken” can mean lost, abandoned, or even worse – removed from their lives or future. The overall message is a warning about the dangers of wrongdoing. Isaiah 8:15 is essentially saying that those who are involved in something that's causing harm will face serious consequences – hardship, loss, and potential danger. It’s often interpreted as a prophecy about the rise of evil or a dangerous situation within a society. It’s a message of urgency, urging people to turn away from things that threaten their well-being and safety. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you examples of what this could mean in the context of modern life (like politics or social issues)? Explore a specific aspect of the message – like the idea of consequences or divine judgment?

Definition: Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and slightly mysterious verse from Isaiah 8:16. It's a really rich idea with layers of meaning! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying that God is protecting and preserving something incredibly important – the Word of God – and he’s safeguarding it for his chosen people. Let's unpack it further: "Bind up the testimony..." : This refers to the Old Testament. “Testimony” means a record, a story, or a truth. “The testimony” here is the very foundation of faith and understanding that God revealed to us through the Law and Prophets. Think of it like a blueprint for how we should live. "...seal the law among my disciples." : This is where it gets really interesting. "Seal" means to protect or preserve something. “The law” refers to God’s laws, those moral guidelines and principles that guide us. “Among my disciples” means that these laws are being entrusted to a small group of people – the followers of God – who will understand and apply them. So, putting it all together: God is actively protecting and preserving the core of his message, the essential truths of his law, through his chosen people. He's safeguarding it so they can continue to understand and follow his way. It’s like a treasure chest filled with holy knowledge – and God is ensuring that this knowledge remains safe and accessible for generations to come. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea of divine providence—God’s careful plan for humanity. It suggests a future where God will guide and protect his people through the written word, teaching them how to live right and follow his will. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes?

Definition: And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Isaiah 8:17. It's a really important message about God’s plan and hope. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “God is going to wait patiently for a time when he will come back to help us.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “I will wait upon the LORD…” – This is God speaking directly to us. "Wait upon" means to be patient and to hold on to something, and “LORD” is a way of referring to God. “…that hideth his face from the house of Jacob…” – This refers to the Jewish people – specifically, the nation of Israel. "House of Jacob" is a very old name for the Jewish people. “Hideth his face” means God is withdrawing himself from them, putting him out of their sight. “…and I will look for him.” – This is the key part! It’s not that God is stopping everything. He's choosing to wait and watch . He's looking forward to a time when he will return, to restore his people, and bring them back to him. What does it mean in a bigger picture? This verse often speaks about the coming of Jesus Christ. It’s a promise that God is working behind the scenes to ultimately bring salvation and restoration to those who have been suffering and oppressed. It's a hopeful message about a future where God will be with us again. Think of it like this: Imagine someone waiting for a storm. They're not stopping the rain, they’re just patiently watching and hoping for the storm to pass. Resources you might find helpful: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/20349716/Isaiah%208%3A17](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/20349716/Isaiah%208%3A17) - This page has a good explanation and translation of the verse. The Bible Project: [https://thebibletreaty.com/israel-8-17-chapter-2/](https://thebibletreaty.com/israel-8-17-chapter-2/) - This video breaks down the meaning of the verse in a visually engaging way. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss its significance within the context of the Old Testament?

Definition: Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful passage from Isaiah 8:18. It’s a really interesting and symbolic verse with a lot of meaning. Here’s what it basically says in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God has chosen someone – specifically, him – to be a sign and wonder for the people of Israel. He's choosing this person to bring about significant changes and displays of His power and goodness. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel..." – This is a direct address to God, inviting him to reveal Himself. “Behold” means “look!” The phrase "the children whom the LORD hath given me” refers to God’s chosen one . It suggests that this person isn't just any ordinary person; they are special and important. "...in Israel from the LORD of hosts..." – This is where it gets really significant. “The Lord of Hosts” means God himself. This indicates that this person is connected to God’s power and rule – He’s working with Him, not just on his own. So, putting it all together: Isaiah 8:18 is saying that God has chosen a specific person (who he calls "the children whom the LORD hath given me") to be a powerful witness and display of His presence in Israel. It’s about a significant event or period where God will demonstrate His power, and this person is meant to be the focal point of those demonstrations. What does it mean for us today? This verse isn't about a single, specific person in our own lives. It speaks to a time when God intends to reveal Himself powerfully, perhaps through events, prophecies, or even just moments of profound change. It’s a reminder that God is actively working and preparing for something significant. Important Note: This is from the Old Testament Bible. It's a complex passage with layers of symbolism, so understanding it fully requires deeper study and interpretation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part in more detail? Connect this verse to other biblical stories or themes?