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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 8 - Verse 1

8:1
Moreover the LORD said unto me, Take thee a great roll, and write in it with a man's pen concerning Mahershalalhashbaz.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the LORD commands the prophet Isaiah to write down a message concerning the birth of a child named Mahershalalhashbaz. The name Mahershalalhashbaz means "quick to the plunder, swift to the spoil" and it signifies the impending Assyrian invasion of Judah. The LORD instructs Isaiah to record this message on a large scroll using a man's pen, emphasizing the importance of the prophecy and the urgency of its delivery. The prophecy serves as a warning to the people of Judah about the impending danger they face if they do not turn back to the LORD and seek His protection. Through this verse, the LORD demonstrates His sovereignty over all nations and His ability to foretell future events with precision. As readers of the Bible, we are reminded of the importance of heeding God's warnings and trusting in His divine guidance and protection in times of trouble.

Theological Overview

In the book of Isaiah, chapter 8, verse 1, the Lord instructs the prophet Isaiah to take a large scroll and write on it with a man's pen concerning a child named Mahershalalhashbaz. This unique name carries a significant theological interpretation as it serves as a prophecy of the impending judgment on the kingdoms of Israel and Syria. The name itself means "swift to the spoil, quick to the plunder" which signifies the swift destruction that will come upon these nations. The use of a man's pen in the writing of this prophecy highlights the human element in the communication of God's message to His people. This verse also emphasizes the importance of recording and preserving God's word for future generations, showcasing the divine authorship and human agency in the transmission of religious teachings. Through careful word study and theological interpretation, we can gain a deeper understanding of the profound message contained within this verse, illustrating the intricate connection between God's divine plan and human involvement in the communication of His will.

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