Isaiah 3:4
And I will give children to be their princes, and babes shall rule over them.
Original Language Analysis
וְנָתַתִּ֥י
And I will give
H5414
וְנָתַתִּ֥י
And I will give
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
1 of 6
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
נְעָרִ֖ים
children
H5288
נְעָרִ֖ים
children
Strong's:
H5288
Word #:
2 of 6
(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit
Cross References
Historical Context
Judah's later kings included young, inexperienced rulers like Manasseh (12 years old) and Josiah (8 years old). While Josiah proved godly, the pattern of youth ruling illustrated national instability.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you discern between youthful energy and the wisdom that comes with mature, godly character?
- What qualities should you look for in leaders beyond competence and charisma?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The collapse continues with children ruling and babes governing—imagery of incompetent, immature leadership. This reversal of proper order constitutes judgment, not progress. The Hebrew 'ta'alulim' (capricious ones) suggests whimsical, unreliable rulers. When God gives immature leaders, it exposes and punishes a nation's folly, as He did with Rehoboam (1 Kings 12).