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Isaiah 7:14 meaning

This verse prophesies a miraculous sign from God that ultimately points to Jesus as the fulfillment of “God with us.”

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.” (Isa.7:14) In this passage from the prophet Isaiah, who lived in the Kingdom of Judah during the eighth century BC (approximately 739-681 BC), God speaks to King Ahaz of Judah. King Ahaz, who ruled from roughly 732-716 BC, faced political pressure from nearby powers and was reluctant to trust in the Lord’s protection. Isaiah delivers God’s promise of a miraculous sign—a child born to a virgin. The verse indicates that this child is to be called “Immanuel,” a name meaning “God with us,” signifying the ultimate presence of the Lord among His people.

“Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son” (Isa.7:14) also highlights the uncommon nature of this event, emphasizing the divine power behind the prophecy. In ancient Judah, the mention of a virgin birth stretched beyond human possibility, pointing to a future supernatural fulfillment. Historically, Judah was situated in the southern part of what is now Israel and the Palestinian territories, centered around Jerusalem. During Isaiah’s lifetime, the region was frequently threatened by powerful neighboring kingdoms, making the backdrop of this promise one set during a time of looming conflict and hardship.

The phrase “she will call His name Immanuel” (Isa.7:14) is notably connected to the New Testament, which proclaims the birth of Jesus Christ as a fulfillment of this prophecy (Matthew 1:23). Early believers saw Jesus as the embodiment of “God with us,” bridging the gap between humanity and the divine. This passage thus stands as a cornerstone in understanding the unity of God’s plan across the Old and New Testaments, revealing God’s intimate involvement with His people and His faithfulness in sending a Redeemer.

Isaiah 7:14