Isaiah 8:12
Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.
Isaiah 8:12 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah is a message from God encouraging His people to trust in Him and not be swayed by the fear or opinions of others. The term "confederacy" refers to alliances made with other nations for protection or security. In this context, the verse is warning the people of Israel not to place their trust in alliances with foreign powers, but to rely on God alone for their safety and security. The repetition of the word "confederacy" emphasizes the importance of not following the crowd or conforming to worldly ways. Instead, God urges His people to have faith and courage, to not give in to fear or be intimidated by those around them. This verse serves as a reminder to stay true to God's commands and trust in His protection, even when faced with uncertainty or opposition.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Isaiah encourages the people of Judah not to seek alliances with foreign nations out of fear of impending threats. The concept of "confederacy" here refers to seeking security through human alliances rather than trusting in God. The prophet admonishes the people not to follow the example of those around them who are panicking and seeking safety through worldly means. Instead, they are reminded to put their trust in God alone and not be swayed by the fear of others. The word "fear" in this context can be understood as both literal fear of impending danger and also as a lack of faith in God's ability to protect and deliver His people. This verse emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty even in the face of adversity, discouraging reliance on human connections or strategies for protection.
Isaiah 8:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
Say ye not, A conspiracy, concerning all whereof this people shall say, A conspiracy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be in dread [thereof] .
World English Bible
“Don’t say, ‘A conspiracy!’ concerning all about which this people say, ‘A conspiracy!’ neither fear their threats, nor be terrorized.
Douay-Rheims
Say ye not: A conspiracy: for all that this people speaketh, is a conspiracy: neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Say ye not, A confederacie to all them, to whome this people sayth a confederacie, neither feare you their feare, nor be afrayd of them.