Isaiah 11:6

KJV

The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

KJV (with Strong's)

The wolf {H2061} also shall dwell {H1481} with the lamb {H3532}, and the leopard {H5246} shall lie down {H7257} with the kid {H1423}; and the calf {H5695} and the young lion {H3715} and the fatling {H4806} together {H3162}; and a little {H6996} child {H5288} shall lead {H5090} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

The wolf will live with the lamb; the leopard lie down with the kid; calf, young lion and fattened lamb together, with a little child to lead them.

Berean Standard Bible

The wolf will live with the lamb, and the leopard will lie down with the goat; the calf and young lion and fatling will be together, and a little child will lead them.

American Standard Version

And the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 11:6 presents a profoundly poetic vision of the Messianic age, depicting a world utterly transformed by the reign of the "Branch from Jesse." It portrays a radical reversal of the natural order, where predator and prey coexist in perfect harmony, symbolizing a comprehensive peace that extends beyond the animal kingdom to encompass all of creation and human relationships. This idyllic scene, culminating in the gentle leadership of a small child, foreshadows a future kingdom characterized by divine justice, universal tranquility, and the complete eradication of fear and enmity, reflecting God's ultimate redemptive purpose for the earth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 11:6 is a pivotal verse within a larger prophetic oracle concerning the coming Messiah, often referred to as the "Branch" or "Root of Jesse." The preceding verses ([Isaiah 11:1-5](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1-5 - The Branch from Jesse")) meticulously describe the character and attributes of this future King: His anointing by the Spirit of the Lord, His wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and fear of the Lord. These qualities establish His righteous and just rule, particularly His impartial judgment of the poor and meek. Verse 6 then transitions from the Messiah's personal characteristics and judicial reign to describe the profound impact His kingdom will have on the natural world, illustrating the comprehensive scope of His peace. This vivid imagery serves as a powerful contrast to the strife and injustice depicted elsewhere in Isaiah's prophecies, offering a hopeful glimpse into God's ultimate plan for restoration.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Isaiah prophesied during a turbulent period in Judah's history (8th century BCE), marked by the looming threat of the Assyrian Empire, political instability, and widespread spiritual apostasy among God's people. The world Isaiah inhabited was one of constant warfare, fear, and violence, where nations devoured nations, and injustice was rampant even within Judah. In such a climate, the imagery of natural enemies—wolf and lamb, leopard and kid, lion and calf—coexisting peacefully was utterly revolutionary and counter-cultural. It challenged the prevailing understanding of power dynamics and offered a radical vision of *shalom* (peace, wholeness, well-being) that transcended human capacity. The "little child" leading fierce animals also subverted conventional notions of leadership, which typically relied on strength and dominance, pointing instead to a divine, gentle authority.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Universal Peace and Harmony**, portraying a world where the fundamental enmity between creatures is abolished, symbolizing a deeper, comprehensive peace that permeates all of creation, including human society. This vision stands in stark contrast to the chaos and violence of the fallen world and points towards a future where violence and fear are eradicated. Secondly, it speaks to the **Restoration of Creation**, echoing the pre-Fall state in the [Garden of Eden](/genesis/2 "Genesis 2 - The Garden of Eden"), where all creatures coexisted without harm. It anticipates a "new heavens and new earth," as later described in [Isaiah 65:17](/isaiah/65-17 "Isaiah 65:17 - New Heavens and New Earth") and [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - A New Heaven and a New Earth"), where God's original design for peace and life is fully realized. Thirdly, the image of "a little child" leading them underscores the theme of **Gentle, Righteous Leadership**. This profound peace is not achieved through force or dominance but through a humble, pure, and divinely empowered authority, symbolizing the Messiah's reign of grace, under which even the fiercest natures are subdued and transformed by His very presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwell (Hebrew, _gûwr'_):** From H1481, this primitive root means "to turn aside from the road (for a lodging or any other purpose), i.e. sojourn (as a guest)." It implies a temporary or peaceful stay, but in this context, it takes on a deeper meaning of permanent, harmonious cohabitation. The wolf, a natural predator, will not merely pass by the lamb but will "dwell" with it, suggesting a complete cessation of their predatory nature and an establishment of secure, intimate proximity.
* **kid (Hebrew, _gᵉdîy'_):** From H1423, this term refers to a young goat. Paired with the leopard, its natural predator, the "kid" emphasizes the vulnerability of the prey animal. Its inclusion highlights the radical nature of the peace envisioned: even the most helpless will be safe from their most fearsome adversaries, signifying a world utterly devoid of threat and fear.
* **lead (Hebrew, _nâhag'_):** From H5090, this primitive root means "to drive forth (a person, an animal or chariot), i.e. lead, carry away; reflexively, to proceed (i.e. impel or guide oneself)." In the context of a child leading wild animals, it signifies a gentle, non-coercive, yet utterly effective guidance. This leadership is not by force or dominance, but by an inherent, perhaps spiritual, authority that transforms and directs, embodying the Messiah's humble yet powerful reign.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb":** This opening clause immediately sets the tone for a radical reversal of the natural order. The wolf, a symbol of ferocity and danger, will peacefully cohabit with the lamb, the epitome of innocence and vulnerability. This imagery signifies the cessation of violence and fear, establishing a foundational peace where natural enmity is eradicated.
* **"and the leopard shall lie down with the kid":** Reinforcing the initial image, this clause reiterates the theme of predator and prey coexisting. The leopard, known for its swift and deadly hunting, will repose alongside the young goat, a common prey animal. "Lie down" suggests rest, security, and trust, indicating a complete absence of threat.
* **"and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together":** This expands the scope of harmonious coexistence to a trio of animals, again pairing a strong predator (young lion) with docile, domesticated animals (calf, fatling). The term "fatling" implies a well-fed, healthy animal, typically raised for consumption, further emphasizing the abundance and security of this peaceful kingdom where such animals are no longer prey. "Together" signifies unity and shared space, devoid of conflict.
* **"and a little child shall lead them":** This culminating phrase is profoundly symbolic. The most powerful and dangerous animals, now transformed, are led not by a mighty warrior or king, but by a "little child." This symbolizes the gentle, pure, and innocent nature of the Messiah's rule. It signifies that the peace of this kingdom is not enforced by might but emanates from a divine, humble authority that transforms hearts and natures, bringing all creation into willing submission and harmony.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 11:6 is rich in **Symbolism**, using animal imagery to convey profound theological truths. The wolf, leopard, and young lion symbolize the destructive, violent, and predatory aspects of the fallen world, while the lamb, kid, calf, and fatling represent innocence, vulnerability, and peace. Their harmonious coexistence symbolizes the complete eradication of enmity, not just in the animal kingdom, but in human society and all of creation under the Messiah's reign. The **Juxtaposition** of these natural enemies ("wolf... with the lamb," "leopard... with the kid," "young lion... with the fatling") powerfully highlights the radical nature of the transformation. This stark contrast underscores the miraculous and divine intervention required to bring about such peace. Furthermore, the verse employs **Hyperbole** or **Idealism** to paint a picture of an ultimate, perfect state. While literal interpretation is possible for a future new creation, the primary intent is to convey the absolute and comprehensive nature of the Messianic peace, where even the most ingrained instincts of violence are overcome by divine grace. The image of "a little child" leading them is a powerful **Metaphor** for the Messiah's gentle yet absolute authority, subverting conventional expectations of leadership and emphasizing humility and purity as the source of true power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 11:6 stands as a cornerstone prophecy of the Messianic kingdom, deeply rooted in the biblical narrative of creation, fall, and redemption. It echoes the original harmony of [Genesis 1-2](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account") before sin introduced discord and violence into creation. This verse anticipates the complete restoration of God's cosmos, where the curse is reversed, and the perfect *shalom* of Eden is re-established under the righteous rule of the Messiah. It speaks to God's unwavering commitment to redeem not only humanity but all of creation, bringing it back into alignment with His perfect will. The transformation of predatory animals into peaceful companions signifies the ultimate triumph of grace over fallen nature, pointing towards a future where all things are made new and God's glory fills the earth.

* [Isaiah 65:25](/isaiah/65-25 "Isaiah 65:25 - Peace in the New Creation"): "The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD."
* [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace"): "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end..."
* [Romans 8:19-21](/romans/8-19 "Romans 8:19-21 - Creation's Hope"): "For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 11:6 offers a powerful beacon of hope and a profound vision for the future, reminding us of God's ultimate plan for a world free from conflict, suffering, and fear. While we currently live in a fallen world marked by discord and injustice, this prophecy calls believers to both anticipate God's coming kingdom and to actively participate in its values now. It encourages us to cultivate peace in our own spheres of influence, seeking to reconcile differences, foster harmony, and extend grace, thereby reflecting the character of the kingdom that is to come. Just as natural enemies are transformed in this vision, we are reminded of God's transformative power to change hardened hearts, heal broken relationships, and overcome deep-seated hostilities through the gospel. The imagery of the "little child" leading serves as a humble yet profound reminder that true influence and lasting peace often stem not from power, dominance, or coercion, but from humility, innocence, and a complete reliance on God's gentle, sovereign hand. This verse compels us to live with eschatological hope, knowing that a perfect future awaits, and to embody its principles in the present.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the vision of peace in Isaiah 11:6 challenge your understanding of what true peace looks like in a broken world?**
* **In what ways can you, as a follower of Christ, contribute to fostering peace and reconciliation in your relationships and community, even amidst conflict?**
* **What does the "little child" leading fierce animals teach us about the nature of God's leadership and the kind of leadership we are called to embody?**
* **How does this prophecy of ultimate harmony strengthen your faith and hope for God's redemptive plan for all creation?**

### FAQ
**Is the prophecy in Isaiah 11:6 literal or symbolic?**

Answer: Biblical scholars often interpret Isaiah 11:6 as primarily symbolic, representing a profound spiritual and moral transformation that will occur in the Messianic kingdom. The imagery of natural enemies coexisting peacefully vividly illustrates the complete cessation of violence, fear, and enmity in all aspects of creation, including human relationships. While some theological traditions might hold to a literal fulfillment in a renewed creation, the immediate and profound impact of the verse lies in its powerful symbolism of comprehensive *shalom* under the Messiah's righteous rule. It signifies a world where the effects of sin are fully reversed, and God's original design for harmony is perfectly restored.

**How does this verse relate to the Christian life today, before the full realization of the Messianic kingdom?**

Answer: While the full realization of Isaiah 11:6 awaits the eschatological kingdom of God, it profoundly impacts the Christian life today. Firstly, it provides immense hope and a clear vision of God's ultimate plan for creation, encouraging believers to anticipate the coming of Christ's perfect reign. Secondly, it calls believers to be agents of peace and reconciliation in a broken world. Though we cannot fully eradicate all conflict, we are commanded to be peacemakers ([Matthew 5:9](/matthew/5-9 "Matthew 5:9 - Blessed are the Peacemakers")) and to live in harmony with others ([Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All")). The transformation of the animals symbolizes the transformative power of the gospel in human hearts, enabling us to overcome our own "predatory" natures and live in love and unity, reflecting the values of the kingdom that is both "already" here in part and "not yet" fully consummated.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 11:6 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the promised "Branch from Jesse" ([Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse")). He is the Prince of Peace ([Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace")) whose reign brings about the radical transformation envisioned. While the complete, cosmic peace of predator and prey dwelling together awaits His second coming and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Jerusalem")), Jesus inaugurated this peace through His first advent. He came as the gentle Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), demonstrating humility and self-sacrifice rather than worldly power. His ministry brought peace between God and humanity ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God through Faith")) and broke down the dividing walls of hostility between people groups ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). The "little child" leading the animals powerfully foreshadows Christ's meek and lowly heart ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Take My Yoke Upon You")), through which He draws all to Himself, transforming hearts and natures. His kingdom, though spiritual now, is progressively working to subdue all things, culminating in a future where His perfect peace will permeate every fiber of creation, fulfilling Isaiah's glorious prophecy.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 65:25

The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust [shall be] the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.

Hosea 2:18

And in that day will I make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and [with] the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely.

Ezekiel 34:25

And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.

Galatians 3:26

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:27

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

Revelation 5:9

And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Revelation 5:10

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.