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Isaiah 11:3

And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:

Isaiah 11:3 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from Isaiah 11:3 highlights the importance of having discernment and wisdom when it comes to understanding and serving the Lord. The phrase "quick understanding" refers to the ability to comprehend spiritual truths and concepts quickly and accurately. As believers, we are called to have a deep reverence and respect for God, which is known as the fear of the Lord. This fear is not about being afraid of God, but rather having a deep sense of awe, respect, and submission to His will. The verse also emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on our physical senses when making judgments or decisions. Instead, we are called to seek guidance and wisdom from the Lord, allowing His spirit to guide us in all aspects of our lives. By following this principle, we can avoid being swayed by appearances or hearsay and instead seek God's truth and righteousness in everything we do.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse from Isaiah 11:3 is that it emphasizes the importance of discernment and wisdom in making decisions. This verse highlights that true understanding comes from the fear of the Lord, suggesting that a deep reverence for God leads to insight and discernment. The phrase "he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears" speaks to the idea of not relying solely on outward appearances or superficial observations when making judgments or corrections. Instead, this verse encourages individuals to seek a deeper understanding that goes beyond what can be seen or heard, emphasizing the importance of spiritual discernment in making wise and righteous decisions. Through this verse, believers are reminded to seek wisdom from God and to rely on His guidance in all matters of judgment and correction.

Isaiah 11:3 in other translations

American Standard Version

And his delight shall be in the fear of Jehovah; and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears;

World English Bible

His delight will be in the fear of Yahweh. He will not judge by the sight of his eyes, neither decide by the hearing of his ears;

Douay-Rheims

And he shall be filled with the spirit of the fear of the Lord, He shall not judge according to the sight of the eyes, nor reprove according to the hearing of the ears.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And shall make him prudent in the feare of the Lord: for he shall not iudge after the sight of his eies, neither reproue by ye hearing of his eares.