Isaiah 7:15
Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.
Isaiah 7:15 (KJV)
Context
Isaiah ministered in the eighth century BC during the reigns of several kings of Judah. In Isaiah 7, the Northern Kingdom of Israel (also called Ephraim) and Syria had formed an alliance and threatened to attack Jerusalem. King Ahaz of Judah was fearful and sought help from Assyria instead of relying on God. God sent Isaiah to deliver a message and a sign to Ahaz.
Meaning
In verse 15, the prophet continues to describe the child whose birth is promised in the previous verse. 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 explains 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.
The reference to butter and honey also points to a land of abundance and peace. Though the land would be temporarily devastated, it would again produce such foods. The phrase “that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good” highlights moral discernment that comes with maturity. The child Immanuel would grow to moral discernment, and this growth is a sign of God’s presence and deliverance.
Biblical connections
In Isaiah 7:14, God promises a sign to Ahaz: “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.” In Christian interpretation, the child in Isaiah 7:15 is seen as a type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who perfectly knew and chose the good. 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. The verse also teaches that discernment is cultivated through a simple, dependent lifestyle and is essential for choosing God’s ways.
Reflection
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. The child Immanuel ultimately points to Christ, who is God with us, and His growth to moral discernment assures us of God’s sovereign control over history and His provision of a sign to assure His people.
