Isaiah 66:11 is a beautiful and evocative verse, rich in imagery. To understand its meaning, we need to consider the context of Isaiah 66.
Context:
Isaiah 66 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem and the establishment of God's kingdom. It contrasts those who are humble and fear God with those who are rebellious and hypocritical.
The "her" in this verse refers to Jerusalem (or Zion). Jerusalem is often personified as a mother in the Old Testament.
Meaning of the Verse:
The verse uses the imagery of nursing to describe the blessings and abundance that God will pour out upon His people in the restored Jerusalem.
"That you may nurse and be satisfied at the comforting breasts...": This speaks of nurturing, comfort, and provision. The people, like infants at their mother's breast, will find solace and sustenance in Jerusalem. The word "comforting" emphasizes the restoration of the emotional and spiritual well-being of God's people after a period of suffering.
"That you may drink deeply, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory.”: This imagery suggests a plentiful supply of blessings and spiritual nourishment. To "drink deeply" speaks of complete satisfaction. The "abundance of her glory" refers to the fullness of God's presence, favor, and blessings that will be manifested in Jerusalem. This glory is not Jerusalem's own, but rather reflects the glory of God dwelling within her.
In essence, the verse promises that in the restored Jerusalem:
God's people will find comfort and peace.
They will be spiritually nourished and satisfied.
They will experience the abundance of God's blessings and glory.
Symbolic Interpretation:
The nursing imagery can be interpreted on multiple levels:
Literal: In a restored Jerusalem, there would be physical prosperity and well-being.
Spiritual: The most important meaning is that God's people would experience a deep and satisfying relationship with Him, finding spiritual nourishment and abundance in His presence.
Messianic: Some see this verse as pointing to the future Messianic kingdom, where God's blessings will be fully realized. The "comforting breasts" can also be seen as the Word of God that feeds us and helps us grow our faith.
In Conclusion:
Isaiah 66:11 is a powerful promise of restoration, comfort, and abundance. It uses the tender and familiar image of a nursing mother to depict the deep satisfaction and spiritual nourishment that God will provide for His people in the restored Jerusalem. It's a picture of a thriving, joyful community, overflowing with God's presence and blessings.
Isaiah 66:11 is a beautiful and evocative verse, rich in imagery. To understand its meaning, we need to consider the context of Isaiah 66.
Context:
Isaiah 66 speaks of the restoration of Jerusalem and the establishment of God's kingdom. It contrasts those who are humble and fear God with those who are rebellious and hypocritical.
The "her" in this verse refers to Jerusalem (or Zion). Jerusalem is often personified as a mother in the Old Testament.
Meaning of the Verse:
The verse uses the imagery of nursing to describe the blessings and abundance that God will pour out upon His people in the restored Jerusalem.
"That you may nurse and be satisfied at the comforting breasts...": This speaks of nurturing, comfort, and provision. The people, like infants at their mother's breast, will find solace and sustenance in Jerusalem. The word "comforting" emphasizes the restoration of the emotional and spiritual well-being of God's people after a period of suffering.
"That you may drink deeply, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory.”: This imagery suggests a plentiful supply of blessings and spiritual nourishment. To "drink deeply" speaks of complete satisfaction. The "abundance of her glory" refers to the fullness of God's presence, favor, and blessings that will be manifested in Jerusalem. This glory is not Jerusalem's own, but rather reflects the glory of God dwelling within her.
In essence, the verse promises that in the restored Jerusalem:
God's people will find comfort and peace.
They will be spiritually nourished and satisfied.
They will experience the abundance of God's blessings and glory.
Symbolic Interpretation:
The nursing imagery can be interpreted on multiple levels:
Literal: In a restored Jerusalem, there would be physical prosperity and well-being.
Spiritual: The most important meaning is that God's people would experience a deep and satisfying relationship with Him, finding spiritual nourishment and abundance in His presence.
Messianic: Some see this verse as pointing to the future Messianic kingdom, where God's blessings will be fully realized. The "comforting breasts" can also be seen as the Word of God that feeds us and helps us grow our faith.
In Conclusion:
Isaiah 66:11 is a powerful promise of restoration, comfort, and abundance. It uses the tender and familiar image of a nursing mother to depict the deep satisfaction and spiritual nourishment that God will provide for His people in the restored Jerusalem. It's a picture of a thriving, joyful community, overflowing with God's presence and blessings.