King James Version

What Does Isaiah 66:8 Mean?

Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.

Context

6

A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies.

7

Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.

8

Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.

9

Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the LORD: shall I cause to bring forth, and shut the womb? saith thy God. not: or, not beget?

10

Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her:

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(8) **Shall the earth be made . . .**—Better, *Shall a land be made to travail. *The usually slow processes of national development are contrasted with the supernatural rapidity of the birth and growth of the new Israel.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Isaiah 66:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Isaiah 66:8

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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