What is the meaning of Isaiah 11:6? The wolf will live with the lamb Isaiah opens with a scene that reverses everything we know about the food chain: a wolf settling down to dwell peaceably with a lamb (Isaiah 65:25; Hosea 2:18). In Eden-like harmony, the predator no longer stalks its prey. Scripture tells us that, before the fall, “to every beast of the earth … I have given every green plant for food” (Genesis 1:30). The same creation that now “groans” (Romans 8:19-22) will one day rejoice in freedom when Christ rules the earth. Key insights: • The word “live” speaks of ongoing coexistence, not a momentary truce. • God is not merely taming wild instincts; He is renewing nature itself. • When the Messiah reigns, safety is no longer a fragile hope but a normal reality. and the leopard will lie down with the goat A leopard lying down beside a goat (rather than lunging at it) portrays lasting rest (Psalm 4:8) and a global end to violence (Micah 4:3-4). “Lie down” hints at the same secure repose found in Psalm 23:2. Even the most alert prey—the sure-footed goat—will feel no need to flee. Notice the layers Isaiah stacks up: • Predator and prey share space—no barriers needed. • Rest replaces the vigilance sin made necessary. • Peace is comprehensive; it reaches into every corner of the animal kingdom (Zephaniah 3:13). the calf and young lion and fatling will be together Here domestic and wild, young and mature, graze side by side (Ezekiel 34:25; Job 5:23). The “fatling” represents the best of the herd—prized livestock normally kept far from lions. The word “together” underscores unity; nothing threatens or competes. Consider the implications: • Agriculture flourishes without predators ravaging herds. • Prosperity and safety meet (Psalm 85:10); no tension exists between abundance and security. • God restores the stewardship He intended for humanity to enjoy (Isaiah 32:17-18). and a little child will lead them The climax is striking: “and a little child will lead them.” Human dominion, fractured by sin, is fully restored (Genesis 1:26-28). A toddler guiding lions and wolves shows that the curse’s fear and hostility are gone (Revelation 21:4). Jesus welcomed children as models of kingdom citizens (Matthew 18:3; 19:14); here, their vulnerability showcases the Messiah’s protective rule. Highlights: • No special strength or weapon is needed—innocence alone is sufficient. • Leadership flows from gentle trust, reflecting Christ’s own shepherd character (John 10:11). • The scene invites us to anticipate a world where even the weakest thrive. summary Isaiah 11:6 paints a literal picture of the Messiah’s future reign on earth: nature renewed, predators pacified, humanity exercising fearless stewardship, and peace saturating every relationship. What sin fractured, Christ will restore, fulfilling God’s original design and offering His people a tangible glimpse of the coming kingdom’s glory. |
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