Isaiah 7:6
Let us go up against Judah, and vex it, and let us make a breach therein for us, and set a king in the midst of it, even the son of Tabeal:
Isaiah 7:6 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "Let us go up against Judah, and vex it, and let us make a breach therein for us, and set a king in the midst of it, even the son of Tabeal," comes from the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. In this verse, there is a plot being hatched by the enemies of Judah to attack and conquer the land. The phrase "let us go up against Judah" signifies the intention to launch a military campaign against the kingdom. The mention of making a breach and setting a king in the midst of Judah reveals the hostile intent to infiltrate and establish control over the land. The reference to the "son of Tabeal" is likely a reference to a puppet ruler or a foreign leader that the enemies of Judah planned to install to govern the conquered territory. This verse serves as a warning of the impending threat to the kingdom of Judah and highlights the geopolitical tensions and conflicts that were prevalent during that time.
Theological Overview
This verse from Isaiah 7:6 has stirred much theological discussion among scholars and theologians. The phrase "Let us go up against Judah, and vex it" suggests a plan to attack and harass the people of Judah, reflecting a desire to cause trouble and instill fear. The mention of making a breach and setting a king in the midst of Judah indicates a strategic military action with the intent to conquer and control the land. The enigmatic reference to "the son of Tabeal" has led to various interpretations, with some suggesting that it refers to a specific individual involved in the plot against Judah. Word studies on the name Tabeal have yielded different meanings, ranging from "good is God" to "goodness of God," but there is no consensus on the exact significance of this name in this context. Overall, this verse highlights the turmoil and political machinations faced by the people of Judah during this tumultuous period in their history.
Isaiah 7:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
Let us go up against Judah, and vex it, and let us make a breach therein for us, and set up a king in the midst of it, even the son of Tabeel;
World English Bible
“Let’s go up against Judah, and tear it apart, and let’s divide it among ourselves, and set up a king in its midst, even the son of Tabeel.”
Douay-Rheims
Let us go up to Juda, and rouse it up, and draw it away to us, and make the son of Tabeel king in the midst thereof.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Let vs goe vp against Iudah, and let vs waken them vp, and make a breach therein for vs, and set a King in the mids thereof, euen the sonne of Tabeal.