What does "the wolf and the lamb" symbolize in Isaiah 65:25? Setting the Scene Isaiah 65:25 — “The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, and dust will be the serpent’s food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all My holy mountain,” says the LORD. What the Wolf and the Lamb Picture • Natural enemies sharing a meal points to the end of hostility. • The imagery echoes Isaiah 11:6-9, reinforcing that God Himself repeats this promise for emphasis. • The wolf represents predatory strength; the lamb represents vulnerability. Their peaceful coexistence shows God reversing the fall’s effects (compare Genesis 3:14-19). Literal Fulfillment in the Coming Kingdom • Scripture affirms a future, physical reign of Messiah on earth (Revelation 20:1-6). • Romans 8:19-22 teaches that creation “waits in eager expectation” for liberation; animal nature itself will be renewed. • The verse anticipates a restored Eden-like environment where carnivorous instincts change: “the lion will eat straw like the ox.” Symbolic Implications for People and Nations • Former oppressors (wolves) and the oppressed (lambs) will dwell safely together. • Micah 4:3-4 parallels this by describing nations beating swords into plowshares and every person sitting under his own vine and fig tree. • Zechariah 9:10 foretells universal peace under Messiah’s rule—“He will proclaim peace to the nations.” Assurance of Lasting Peace • “They will neither harm nor destroy” echoes the promise of no more violence (Isaiah 11:9). • Hebrews 12:22-24 links this “holy mountain” with the unshakeable kingdom believers receive. • God’s covenant faithfulness guarantees the permanence of this harmony (Jeremiah 31:35-37). Key Takeaways • The wolf and the lamb symbolize total peace, both ecological and social, ushered in by Messiah. • The picture is literal: animal behavior will change. It is also illustrative, showing how God reconciles hostile parties. • The promise underscores the certainty of God’s redemptive plan—creation, humanity, and even animal realms restored under Christ’s righteous rule. |
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