Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Name'maher is a term that appears in the context of biblical prophecy, specifically within the book of Isaiah. It is closely associated with the prophetic symbolism and messages delivered by the prophet Isaiah during a tumultuous period in the history of Israel and Judah. Biblical Context: The term Name'maher is derived from the name "Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz," which is found in the book of Isaiah. This name is significant in the prophetic narrative and is mentioned in Isaiah 8:1-4. The name itself is a symbolic representation of the swift judgment and impending doom that was to come upon the enemies of Judah. Isaiah 8:1-4 : "Then the LORD said to me, 'Take a large scroll and write on it with an ordinary stylus: Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz. And I will appoint for Myself trustworthy witnesses—Uriah the priest and Zechariah son of Jeberekiah.' And I had relations with the prophetess, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. The LORD said to me, 'Name him Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz. For before the boy knows how to cry ‘My father’ or ‘My mother,’ the wealth of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria will be carried off by the king of Assyria.'" Symbolic Meaning: The name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz translates to "Quick to the plunder, swift to the spoil." This name was given to Isaiah's son as a prophetic sign to the people of Judah. It served as a warning that the Assyrian empire would soon invade and conquer the northern kingdom of Israel (Samaria) and the Aramean capital of Damascus. The rapidity of the impending conquest was emphasized through the name, underscoring the certainty and speed of God's judgment against these nations. Prophetic Significance: Isaiah's use of symbolic names for his children was a common prophetic practice, intended to convey God's messages to His people in a tangible and memorable way. The birth and naming of Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz were part of a larger narrative in which Isaiah communicated God's plans and purposes for the nations surrounding Judah. This prophetic act was meant to reassure the people of Judah of God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises, even amidst the threat of foreign invasion. Historical Background: The historical context of this prophecy is set during the Syro-Ephraimite War (circa 734-732 BC), when the northern kingdom of Israel and Aram (Syria) formed an alliance against the Assyrian empire. King Ahaz of Judah faced pressure to join this coalition but instead sought the protection of Assyria. Isaiah's prophecy, including the naming of Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, was a divine message indicating that Assyria would indeed defeat Israel and Aram, but it also served as a caution to Judah about relying on foreign powers rather than trusting in God. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz highlights the themes of divine judgment and deliverance. It underscores the belief in God's active involvement in the affairs of nations and His ability to orchestrate events according to His divine will. The prophecy serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of turning away from His guidance. Conclusion: The name Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, and by extension Name'maher, encapsulates a moment in biblical history where God's prophetic word was vividly demonstrated through the life and family of Isaiah. It remains a testament to the power of prophecy and the unfolding of God's plan in the biblical narrative. Library Hence Neither is it Lawful to Accuse those who have Left All... Matt. I. 22, 23 Thesaurus Name'maher (1 Occurrence)Name'maher. Namely, Name'maher. Names . Multi-Version Concordance Name'maher (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 8:3 I went to the prophetess ... /n/name'maher.htm - 6k Maher-shalal-hash-baz (2 Occurrences) Maher-shalal-hashbaz (1 Occurrence) Conceiveth (27 Occurrences) Ma'her-shal'al-hash-baz (2 Occurrences) Baz (2 Occurrences) Shalal (2 Occurrences) Prophetess (8 Occurrences) Namely (81 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Name'maher (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 8:3 Subtopics Related Terms |
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