Isaiah 11 3

Isaiah 11:3 kjv

And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:

Isaiah 11:3 nkjv

His delight is in the fear of the LORD, And He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, Nor decide by the hearing of His ears;

Isaiah 11:3 niv

and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears;

Isaiah 11:3 esv

And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear,

Isaiah 11:3 nlt

He will delight in obeying the LORD.
He will not judge by appearance
nor make a decision based on hearsay.

Isaiah 11 verses

Isaiah 11 3 Meaning

The Lord delights in those who fear Him and trust in His steadfast love.

Isaiah 11 3 Context

Isaiah chapter 11 describes the glorious reign of the coming Messiah. This specific verse follows the prophecy of the Holy Spirit resting upon the Messiah, empowering Him with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the LORD. The verse highlights the outcome of this divine empowerment, explaining the nature of the Messiah's judgment and His righteous reign. The context is a period of deep spiritual decay and oppression, and this verse offers a hopeful contrast, indicating that God’s justice will be pure and His delight will be in those who are godly.

Isaiah 11 3 Word Analysis

• יָפִיצ (yāfits): "delights" or "takes pleasure." This verb signifies finding joy, satisfaction, or favor in something or someone.
  • It suggests a deep emotional and volitional pleasure, not mere passive approval.
  • The context implies that God's pleasure is not based on outward show, but on internal disposition and character.
• בְּ (bə): "in" or "by." A preposition indicating the sphere or basis of God's delight.
• יִרְאֵי (yirəʾê): "those who fear." Derived from the root meaning "to fear" (יָרֵא - yare'), but in a theological context, it often signifies reverence, awe, and a healthy respect for God that leads to obedience.
  • It is not a paralyzing fear, but a profound reverence that guides one's actions.
  • This "fear of the Lord" is the beginning of wisdom (Prov 9:10).
• יהוה (YHWH): "the LORD." The covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with His people.
• וּבְ (ū·ḇə): "and in" or "and by." Connects the two aspects of God's delight.
• חֶ֣סֶד (ḥesed): "steadfast love," "lovingkindness," "mercy." This Hebrew word signifies covenant loyalty, enduring love, and commitment.
  • It’s a rich concept, implying more than just emotional affection; it includes faithful action and commitment.
  • It reflects God’s covenant faithfulness towards His people, and the reciprocal "hesed" expected from them.
• נֹ֣צְרָיו (noṣərayw): "His protectors" or "those who guard Him."
  • This word is interpreted in a few ways:
    1. Those who guard God's commandments: This aligns with the idea of fearing the Lord, leading to obedience and actively upholding God's commands.
    2. Those who guard God's promises: This suggests faithfulness to God’s covenant and His word.
    3. More metaphorically: Some see this as relating to keeping oneself within God's protection or covenant bounds, implying devotion and adherence. The King James Version translation of "observe His statutes" (based on older manuscript readings) captures this sense of adherence.

Group Analysis: The verse connects God's pleasure (delight) with two key qualities in His people: their reverence and obedience ("fear of the LORD") and their commitment to God's covenantal "steadfast love." This love is reflected in those who "guard Him" (i.e., uphold His ways and His covenant). Thus, God's favor is found in those who exhibit deep, respectful devotion that translates into obedient living and faithfulness to His established relationship.

Isaiah 11 3 Bonus Section

The phrase "those who guard Him" has been a point of significant interpretation across various traditions. While some translations suggest obedience to His laws or preservation of His covenant, others propose it refers to the faithful remnant who uphold God’s promises and protect His testimony in challenging times. The interconnectedness of fearing God and cherishing His steadfast love implies that true reverence is not mere apprehension, but an active engagement with God's covenantal grace, leading to devoted adherence. This verse underscores a core theme in biblical theology: God's desire for relationship built on mutual faithfulness and reciprocal love.

Isaiah 11 3 Commentary

The Lord’s pleasure is not found in rituals or sacrifices offered without the heart's devotion, but in those whose inner disposition reflects reverence for His holiness and a faithful commitment to His covenant love. This "fear of the LORD" is a reverential awe that prompts obedience and guards against sin. "His protectors" are those who treasure God’s loving-kindness, actively upholding His ways and remaining faithful to Him. In essence, God finds delight in His people when they embody faithfulness to Him and to His commands, stemming from a heart that rightly esteems His character and His love. This verse serves as a fundamental principle of divine-human relationship: genuine worship and devotion are rooted in awe of God and love for His persistent kindness.