Isaiah 11:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 11:7
7 And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, wisdom, faith. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 11:7
7 And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
Analysis
The peaceful kingdom continues: predators (cow and bear) graze together with their young lying together in harmony. The lion eating straw like the ox represents complete transformation of carnivorous nature to herbivorous—reversing the curse's effects. This depicts either literal millennial conditions or metaphorically the complete peace of Christ's kingdom where former enemies coexist. Either interpretation shows creation's redemption from curse and violence, restored to Edenic conditions under Messiah's reign.
Historical Context
Anticipates messianic age when curse is lifted and creation restored (Romans 8:19-22). Some see literal fulfillment in millennial kingdom; others see metaphorical fulfillment in church's unity transcending natural enmities. The imagery draws from Eden where all creatures were originally herbivorous (Genesis 1:30). Christ's redemptive work begins reversing the fall's effects, ultimately culminating in new heavens and new earth where former things pass away.
Reflection
- How does Christ's redemption extend beyond humans to all creation?
- What does the transformation of predatory nature teach about the completeness of Christ's redemptive work?
- How do we see previews of this coming peace in present Christian community?