Isaiah 11:8
And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den.
Isaiah 11:8 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, the imagery of children playing fearlessly with dangerous snakes is used to depict a future time of peace and harmony. The asp and cockatrice mentioned in the verse are both venomous snakes that were often associated with danger and death in ancient times. By mentioning that even children will be able to play with these creatures without harm, the verse symbolizes a world where even the most dangerous of foes will be rendered harmless. This passage can be seen as a metaphor for the ultimate victory of good over evil and the restoration of a perfect and peaceful world. It brings hope and reassurance to readers, reminding them that even the most dangerous and fearsome threats will ultimately be subdued by the power of God's kingdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Isaiah, there is a vivid image of peace and harmony in the midst of what would typically be dangerous situations. The theological interpretation of this verse often focuses on the idea that in the time of the Messiah's reign, even the most deadly creatures will no longer pose a threat. The asp and the cockatrice were both venomous snakes, symbols of danger and evil in the ancient world. The image of a sucking child playing on the hole of the asp and a weaned child putting their hand on the cockatrice's den conveys the complete absence of fear and danger that will exist in the future kingdom of God. This interpretation points to the ultimate victory of good over evil and the restoration of peace and safety in the world. Through word studies, we can see that the asp and cockatrice represent not only physical dangers but also spiritual enemies that will be defeated in the end times, bringing about a new era of peace and security.
Isaiah 11:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder's den.
World English Bible
The nursing child will play near a cobra’s hole, and the weaned child will put his hand on the viper’s den.
Douay-Rheims
And the sucking child shall play on other hole of the asp: and the weaned child shall thrust his hand into the den of the basilisk.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the sucking childe shall play vpon the hole of the aspe, and the wained childe shall put his hand vpon the cockatrice hole.