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Isaiah 7:16

For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land that thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of both her kings.

Isaiah 7:16 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land that thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of both her kings," is from the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. In this verse, the prophet Isaiah is delivering a message from God to the people of Judah. The verse is a prophecy about a time when a child will grow up quickly, not having the chance to fully develop a sense of discernment between good and evil before the kings of Judah will be taken away. This prophecy is a warning of impending judgment upon the land, as a result of its inhabitants turning away from God and embracing evil practices. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of choosing to follow God's ways. It emphasizes the swift and severe nature of divine judgment when people reject what is good and embrace what is evil.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Isaiah is that it speaks to the imminent judgment and destruction that will come upon the lands of the enemies of Israel. The concept of a child knowing to refuse evil and choose good before this destruction occurs symbolizes the swift and decisive nature of the judgment that God will bring upon those who oppose His people. The verse emphasizes the idea that God's plans are far-reaching and that His timing is perfect, as even a child will be able to recognize the impending doom of the nations. The word studies related to this verse may include a deeper look into the meanings of 'refuse', 'evil', and 'choose', to fully grasp the significance of the message being conveyed. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, as well as a warning to those who stand in opposition to His will.

Isaiah 7:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

For before the child shall know to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land whose two kings thou abhorrest shall be forsaken.

World English Bible

For before the child knows to refuse the evil, and choose the good, the land whose two kings you abhor shall be forsaken.

Douay-Rheims

For before the child know to refuse the evil and to choose the good, the land which thou abhorrest shall be forsaken of the face of her two kings.

Geneva Bible (1599)

For afore the childe shall haue knowledge to eschew the euill, and to chuse the good, the land, that thou abhorrest, shalbe forsaken of both her Kings.