Isaiah 7:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 7:21
21 And it shall come to pass in that day, that a man shall nourish a young cow, and two sheep;
Chapter Context
Isaiah 7 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, worship, creation. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 7:21
21 And it shall come to pass in that day, that a man shall nourish a young cow, and two sheep;
Analysis
The preservation of 'a man' with 'a young cow, and two sheep' depicts drastic reduction: from agricultural abundance to bare subsistence. The small-scale farming suggests massive depopulation and economic collapse—only scattered survivors remain. Yet even in judgment, provision continues; the remnant survives. This pattern of preserved remnant pervades Isaiah (1:9; 10:20-22; 37:31-32), demonstrating that judgment, though severe, doesn't entirely destroy—anticipating God's faithfulness to preserve a people for Himself.
Historical Context
Post-invasion Judah was devastated, with much of the population killed or exiled. Survivors subsisted on minimal agriculture, confirming prophetic imagery.
Reflection
- How does the remnant principle provide hope even within descriptions of severe judgment?
- What does preservation of minimal sustenance teach about God's faithfulness to maintain His people?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 5:17, Jeremiah 39:10