Commentary on Isaiah 7:21

Isaiah 7:21 states: "And it shall come to pass in that day, that a man shall rear a young cow, and two sheep;" This verse is part of a larger prophetic narrative where the prophet Isaiah speaks of the social and agricultural implications stemming from divine judgment and the eventual restoration of Israel. This commentary draws from insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to serve pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Contextual Overview

Isaiah prophesies in a turbulent time for Judah, where threats from the Northern Kingdom and Assyrian power loom large. The chapter examines the consequences of trusting in Egypt or alliances over reliance on God. The significance of agriculture and pastoral imagery encapsulated in Isaiah 7:21 reflects on the broader themes of sustenance, survival, and innocence amidst calamity.

Verse Breakdown

• “In that day”: This phrase refers to a future time of both judgment and restoration, indicating a transition from despair to hope within God’s providential timeline.
• “A man shall rear a young cow, and two sheep”: The act of raising livestock is emblematic of sustenance and domestic life. This imagery suggests a regression in agricultural practices, pointing to societal struggles.

Theological Insights

The raising of these animals signifies not merely survival but also the return to a stable and blessed life after the chaos. Matthew Henry reflects on the pastoral and agricultural images employed here, noting they symbolize future peace and God's provision amidst hardships.

Albert Barnes notes that the family unit maintaining livestock suggests a simplified, enduring way of life that will prevail once God's deliverance is enacted. In this sense, the livestock signifies God's restoration of not just physical needs, but a reminder of the simplicity and purity of life intended by God.

Adam Clarke brings attention to the expectant hope within the community of believers. The man’s action to rear livestock illustrates personal responsibility and community sustenance, emphasizing the necessity of faith and labor when awaiting divine intervention.

Symbolic Interpretations

• Young Cow: Symbolizes strength and potential. It indicates a fresh start and new beginnings in a society previously stricken by fear and military threats.
• Two Sheep: Indicative of innocence and purity, they highlight community ties, teaching about care, responsibility, and the shared burdens of life.

Practical Applications

For pastors and leaders, Isaiah 7:21 can offer profound lessons on community needs and God’s providence. In preaching, they are encouraged to underscore God’s ability to restore and provide amidst societal upheavals.

Students of theology may reflect on the implications of trust in God versus reliance on human strength. The commentary prompts discussions around faith and the transformative power of God’s provisions.

Scholars can delve into the historical context of Isaiah’s prophecies, examining how these assurances reflect the overarching narrative of God’s relationship with His people. The return to pastoral life can also inspire studies focusing on agrarian themes throughout scripture.

Conclusion

In Isaiah 7:21, the merging of agricultural imagery with prophetic assurance invites a reflective posture about faith in turbulence. This commentary synthesizes insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to encourage a deeper engagement with the text while fostering pastoral care, scholarly exploration, and theological reflection.