Isaiah 7:12
But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
אֶשְׁאַ֥ל
I will not ask
H7592
אֶשְׁאַ֥ל
I will not ask
Strong's:
H7592
Word #:
4 of 8
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
5 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ahaz had already decided to appeal to Assyria (2 Kings 16:7-8). Accepting God's sign would obligate him to trust God rather than political alliance.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we sometimes use religious language to mask disobedience or unbelief?
- What invitations from God do we refuse under pretense of humility or piety?
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Analysis & Commentary
Ahaz's refusal—'I will not ask, neither will I tempt the LORD'—appears pious but masks unbelief and disobedience. By refusing God's explicit invitation, Ahaz disguises faithlessness as reverence. The phrase 'tempt the LORD' misapplies Deuteronomy 6:16's warning against testing God; here, God invited the test. This false piety enabled Ahaz to pursue preferred political solution (Assyrian alliance) while appearing religious. It demonstrates how religious language can mask rebellion.