Isaiah 7:15
“Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.”
Historical Context: Isaiah was a prophet who ministered in the 8th century BC during the reigns of several kings of Judah. In Isaiah 7, the Northern Kingdom of Israel (also known as Ephraim) and Syria had formed an alliance and threatened to attack Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. King Ahaz of Judah was fearful and sought Assyrian help instead of relying on God. God sent Isaiah to deliver a message and a sign to Ahaz.
Immediate Context: In Isaiah 7:14, God promises a sign to Ahaz, saying, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” This prophecy points to the future birth of Jesus Christ, who would be born of a virgin and be called Immanuel, meaning “God with us.”
Understanding Isaiah 7:15: In verse 15, the prophet Isaiah continues to describe this future child who will be born. The phrase “butter and honey shall he eat” signifies a simple and basic diet. In ancient times, butter and honey were considered delicacies and symbols of abundance and prosperity. The verse goes on to explain the purpose of this diet. The child will eat butter and honey “that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.” This statement emphasizes that the child will be raised in an environment where he will learn to distinguish between right and wrong, good and evil.
Symbolic Interpretation: The prophecy in Isaiah 7:15 can also be seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. Jesus, as the Son of God, came to the world to fulfil the purpose of revealing the nature of God, teaching righteousness, and leading people to choose good over evil. He had a deep understanding of right and wrong and exemplified it in His life and teachings. The phrase “butter and honey” may be understood metaphorically as representing the abundance and richness of the Gospel and God’s Word. Just as these food items provide nourishment, Jesus, through His teachings and His sacrifice, provides spiritual nourishment for those who follow Him.
Application: Isaiah 7:15 serves as a reminder for believers to seek wisdom and discernment, to choose good over evil, and to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. It encourages us to nourish ourselves spiritually with the Word of God, which enables us to discern the truth and make righteous choices. In practical terms, it urges us to cultivate a relationship with God, study His Word, and seek His guidance in making decisions. It reminds us that following God’s ways leads to a life of righteousness and blessing. Overall, Isaiah 7:15 points to the coming of Jesus Christ and highlights the importance of discernment and choosing good over evil. It encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of God’s Word and apply its teachings in their lives.
