Isaiah 7:8

KJV

For the head of Syria [is] Damascus, and the head of Damascus [is] Rezin; and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people.

KJV (with Strong's)

For the head {H7218} of Syria {H758} is Damascus {H1834}, and the head {H7218} of Damascus {H1834} is Rezin {H7526}; and within threescore {H8346} and five {H2568} years {H8141} shall Ephraim {H669} be broken {H2865}, that it be not a people {H5971}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For the head of Aram is Dammesek, and the head of Dammesek Retzin. In sixty-five years Efrayim will be broken and will cease to be a people.

Berean Standard Bible

For the head of Aram is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is Rezin. Within sixty-five years Ephraim will be shattered as a people.

American Standard Version

For the head of Syria is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is Rezin; and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken in pieces, so that it shall not be a people:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 7:8 delivers a precise prophetic declaration from God through the prophet Isaiah to King Ahaz of Judah, who was gripped by fear during the Syro-Ephraimite War. This verse specifically foretells the impending demise of Judah's northern adversaries, stating that Damascus, the capital of Syria, would lose its king, Rezin, and more significantly, that within sixty-five years, the Northern Kingdom of Israel, referred to as Ephraim, would be utterly shattered and cease to exist as a distinct people. This prophecy served as a powerful reassurance of God's absolute sovereignty over nations and His unwavering commitment to His covenant purposes, even in the face of human unbelief.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 7:8 is strategically placed within the "Book of Immanuel" (Isaiah 7-12), a pivotal section of Isaiah's prophetic ministry. It immediately follows God's direct message to King Ahaz, who was paralyzed by fear due to the hostile alliance of King Rezin of Syria and King Pekah of Israel (Ephraim). These allied kings sought to overthrow Jerusalem and install a puppet ruler, the "son of Tabeel" ([Isaiah 7:1-7](/isaiah/7-1-7 "Isaiah 7:1-7 - The Syro-Ephraimite Alliance Against Judah")). The preceding verses meticulously set the stage for Ahaz's panic and God's gracious offer of a sign, which Ahaz famously refused in a display of feigned piety. Verse 8, therefore, provides concrete details regarding the temporal limits and ultimate failure of the very threat that was causing Ahaz such distress, reinforcing the divine assurance that their plans would not stand. This declaration of the enemies' certain downfall serves as the immediate backdrop and logical precursor to the profound prophecy of Immanuel in [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - The Sign of Immanuel"), a sign of God's continued presence and faithfulness despite the immediate crisis and Ahaz's profound lack of faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Isaiah 7:8 is the Syro-Ephraimite War, which unfolded around 735-734 BC. During this period, the Northern Kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) under King Pekah and Aram (Syria) under King Rezin formed an anti-Assyrian coalition. Their objective was to coerce Judah into joining their alliance by attacking Jerusalem and threatening to replace King Ahaz with a more compliant ruler ([Isaiah 7:6](/isaiah/7-6 "Isaiah 7:6 - The Plan to Install a Puppet King")). Judah, a smaller kingdom, found itself precariously positioned between these two hostile neighbors and the rapidly expanding superpower of Assyria, which was aggressively extending its empire westward. Culturally, the people of Judah, like other ancient Near Eastern nations, would have readily understood the "head" of a kingdom to signify its capital city and its reigning monarch. Thus, the prophecy's explicit focus on Damascus and Rezin, followed by Ephraim's dissolution, would have carried immense significance in terms of national identity, political power, and the ultimate fate of empires in a region dominated by imperial ambitions.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several major themes prevalent in the book of Isaiah and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty Over Nations**, demonstrating unequivocally that God, not earthly kings or military alliances, ultimately controls the destiny of kingdoms. Despite the formidable threat posed by Syria and Ephraim, God declares their predetermined end, showcasing His absolute authority over all human affairs and political powers, a theme profoundly echoed in passages like [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons"). Secondly, it emphasizes **Prophetic Precision and Fulfillment**. The specific timeframe of "within threescore and five years" for Ephraim's destruction, while initially perplexing given Samaria's fall in 722 BC (around 13 years after this prophecy, as recorded in [2 Kings 17:6](/2_kings/17-6 "2 Kings 17:6 - Fall of Samaria")), points to a more complete and irreversible dispersion and loss of national identity. This deeper fulfillment likely refers to later Assyrian policies, such as Esarhaddon's resettlement of foreign peoples into Samaria around 670 BC (735 BC - 65 years = 670 BC), which effectively erased Ephraim as a distinct political entity and people group within the land. Lastly, the verse reinforces **The Certainty of God's Word**, serving as a strong assurance to Ahaz and Judah that God's plan would prevail, regardless of the immediate circumstances or the perceived strength of their enemies, a truth foundational to the entire book of [Isaiah](/isaiah "The Book of Isaiah").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **head (Hebrew, _rôʼsh'_):** This term (H7218) literally refers to the physical head, but figuratively, as used here, it denotes the chief, beginning, principal, or ruler. In the context of a nation, it signifies the capital city or the supreme authority. Thus, "the head of Syria is Damascus" means Damascus is the capital and seat of power for Syria, and "the head of Damascus is Rezin" identifies Rezin as the supreme ruler of that capital and, by extension, the entire Syrian kingdom. This emphasizes the source of the threat Ahaz faced, identifying the key figures and places whose power God was about to dismantle.
* **Damascus (Hebrew, _Dammeseq'_):** This proper noun (H1834) refers to the ancient city of Damascus, the capital of Syria (Aram). Its inclusion here highlights the specific geopolitical entity that was a primary aggressor against Judah. The prophecy's declaration concerning Damascus and its king, Rezin, directly addresses the immediate threat perceived by King Ahaz, underscoring God's direct intervention in the affairs of these powerful nations.
* **Ephraim (Hebrew, _ʼEphrayim'_):** This proper noun (H669) refers to the dominant tribe of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, often used as a metonym for the entire kingdom itself. The prophecy's focus on Ephraim signifies the comprehensive judgment awaiting the rebellious Northern Kingdom, which had continually turned away from God. This specific mention emphasizes that the judgment is not merely on a city or a king, but on an entire people group that had forsaken its covenant relationship with Yahweh.
* **broken (Hebrew, _châthath'_):** The Hebrew verb (H2865) means "to prostrate," "to break down," or "to dismay." It conveys a sense of being shattered, terrified, or utterly destroyed. In this context, it implies more than just military defeat; it signifies a complete collapse leading to the loss of national identity and cohesion for Ephraim. This is not merely a setback but a comprehensive and irreversible judgment that would dismantle their societal and political structure, rendering them incapable of functioning as a distinct entity.
* **people (Hebrew, _ʻam'_):** This noun (H5971) refers to a people as a congregated unit, a tribe, or a nation. When the prophecy states that Ephraim would be "broken, that it be not a people," it means that Ephraim would lose its distinct national identity, its cohesion as a united ethnic and political entity. This goes beyond mere conquest; it speaks to a profound and permanent dissolution, where the very concept of "Ephraim" as a self-governing, identifiable nation would cease to exist within the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the head of Syria [is] Damascus, and the head of Damascus [is] Rezin;":** This initial clause precisely identifies the political and military leadership of Judah's immediate adversaries. Syria (Aram) is personified by its capital, Damascus, and Damascus is personified by its king, Rezin. This establishes the clear targets of the divine pronouncement, highlighting the specific powers that Ahaz feared and whose plans God was about to nullify. It sets the stage by acknowledging the perceived strength and organization of the enemy, only to then declare their certain downfall.
* **"and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people.":** This is the core prophetic declaration concerning the Northern Kingdom of Israel, referred to here by its dominant tribe, Ephraim. The phrase "threescore and five years" (65 years) provides a remarkably precise, long-term timeline for Ephraim's ultimate demise. While Samaria, Ephraim's capital, fell to Assyria in 722 BC (only about 13 years after this prophecy in 735 BC), the "broken, that it be not a people" aspect points to a more thorough and permanent dispersion and loss of national identity. This was fulfilled around 670 BC, when Esarhaddon, the Assyrian king, enacted policies of mass deportation and resettlement of foreign peoples into Samaria, effectively dissolving Ephraim's distinct socio-political and ethnic identity within the land. This demonstrates God's long-range foresight and the comprehensive nature of His judgment, which extended beyond mere military defeat to the complete eradication of a national entity.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 7:8 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its message of divine judgment and sovereignty. The primary device is **Prophecy**, a direct, declarative statement of future events, demonstrating God's foreknowledge and absolute control over history. The specific mention of "threescore and five years" adds a layer of remarkable **Precision** to this prophecy, emphasizing the certainty and measured nature of God's predetermined plan, even if its full fulfillment extended beyond immediate events. The phrase "the head of Syria [is] Damascus, and the head of Damascus [is] Rezin" utilizes **Synecdoche** (a part representing the whole) or **Metonymy**, where the capital city stands for the entire nation, and the king for the capital, establishing the clear and identifiable targets of the divine decree. Finally, the declaration that Ephraim "shall be broken, that it be not a people" employs **Hyperbole** or **Intensification** to underscore the completeness and finality of the judgment. It's not merely a defeat but an utter obliteration of national identity, a state of non-existence as a distinct political and ethnic entity, highlighting the severity and comprehensive nature of God's impending judgment on a rebellious people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 7:8 stands as a profound testament to God's absolute sovereignty over human history and the destiny of nations. It reveals that no earthly power, no matter how formidable or threatening, can ultimately thwart the divine will. God's prophetic word is not merely a prediction but a declaration of His predetermined plan, which will inevitably come to pass. This verse assures us that even in times of national crisis or personal fear, God remains enthroned, actively orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes, whether those purposes involve judgment on rebellious nations or the preservation of His covenant people. It underscores the reliability of divine promises and warnings, reminding believers that trust in God's word is the only true source of security and stability in a world of constant flux.

* [Daniel 2:21](/daniel/2-21 "Daniel 2:21 - God Changes Times and Seasons")
* [Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Accomplishes Its Purpose")
* [Psalm 33:10-11](/psalm/33-10-11 "Psalm 33:10-11 - God Frustrates the Plans of Nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 7:8 offers a powerful anchor for our faith in a world often characterized by political turmoil, national anxieties, and personal fears. Just as King Ahaz was paralyzed by the perceived strength of his enemies, we too can become overwhelmed by daunting circumstances, whether they are global crises, national challenges, or deeply personal struggles. This verse reminds us that God is not a passive observer but the ultimate orchestrator of history, holding the reins of power over all nations and their leaders. Our security is not found in human alliances, military might, or political strategies, but in humble reliance upon the unchanging character and infallible word of God. When facing overwhelming odds, we are called to remember that God's purposes will prevail, and His promises are certain. This should inspire a deep sense of peace and courageous trust, knowing that the God who foretold the end of mighty kingdoms with such precision is the same God who sovereignly cares for every detail of our lives, calling us to respond in faith, not fear.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or in the current global climate do you feel a sense of fear or uncertainty, similar to Ahaz's panic?**
* **How does the precision and ultimate fulfillment of God's prophecy in Isaiah 7:8 strengthen your trust in His sovereignty today, especially concerning long-term outcomes?**
* **What practical steps can you take to rely more on God's word and less on human solutions or perceived strengths when facing challenges?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "threescore and five years" prophecy in Isaiah 7:8, given that Samaria fell much sooner?**

Answer: The "threescore and five years" (65 years) prophecy refers to a more complete and irreversible dissolution of Ephraim's national identity, extending beyond just the initial military defeat. While the capital of the Northern Kingdom, Samaria, fell to the Assyrians in 722 BC (approximately 13 years after Isaiah's prophecy in 735 BC, as recorded in [2 Kings 17:6](/2_kings/17-6 "2 Kings 17:6 - Fall of Samaria")), the 65-year timeline points to a later, more thorough depopulation and resettlement policy. This was likely fulfilled around 670 BC (735 BC - 65 years = 670 BC), when the Assyrian king Esarhaddon enacted policies of mass deportation and the resettlement of foreign peoples into the territory of Samaria. This strategic move effectively erased Ephraim as a distinct political and ethnic entity within the land, fulfilling the prophecy that it would "be broken, that it be not a people." This demonstrates the long-term scope and precision of God's prophetic word, which often encompasses multiple stages of fulfillment, culminating in a comprehensive and permanent change.

**How does Isaiah 7:8 relate to the broader "Immanuel prophecy" in Isaiah 7?**

Answer: Isaiah 7:8 provides the immediate and crucial context for the "Immanuel prophecy" that follows in [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - The Sign of Immanuel"). King Ahaz was terrified by the Syro-Ephraimite alliance, whose leaders, Rezin and Pekah, are explicitly mentioned in verse 8. God, through Isaiah, first reassures Ahaz that the plans of these two kings will not stand ([Isaiah 7:7](/isaiah/7-7 "Isaiah 7:7 - The Lord's Word Against the Alliance")), and then, in verse 8, gives a specific timeline for their ultimate demise and the complete dissolution of Ephraim. This declaration of the enemies' certain downfall is the very foundation upon which the sign of Immanuel is offered. The promise of "God with us" (Immanuel) is given precisely because Ahaz is afraid of these specific adversaries whose fate has just been sealed by divine decree. Thus, Isaiah 7:8 highlights the immediate crisis that the Immanuel prophecy addresses, underscoring God's active presence and faithfulness in the midst of national threat and human unbelief, demonstrating that His presence is the ultimate security.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The divine sovereignty over nations declared in Isaiah 7:8 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While earthly kingdoms rise and fall, and their "heads" are broken, Christ is the eternal "Head" over all creation and every authority. As [Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ is Creator and Sustainer") proclaims, "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together." The breaking of Ephraim, signifying the end of a distinct earthly people group, foreshadows the spiritual reality that in Christ, national and ethnic distinctions are transcended for those who believe. As [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile in Christ") states, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Though His kingdom is "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")), Christ ultimately reigns supreme, and the day will come when "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever" ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Thus, the precise judgment on Ephraim serves as a microcosm of God's ultimate control over all history, culminating in the universal reign of the Messiah, who alone is the true and everlasting Head, the Immanuel promised to a fearful world.

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 17:1

¶ The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from [being] a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.

Isaiah 17:3

The fortress also shall cease from Ephraim, and the kingdom from Damascus, and the remnant of Syria: they shall be as the glory of the children of Israel, saith the LORD of hosts.

Genesis 14:15

And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which [is] on the left hand of Damascus.

Hosea 1:6

And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And [God] said unto him, Call her name Loruhamah: for I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away.

Hosea 1:10

Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured nor numbered; and it shall come to pass, [that] in the place where it was said unto them, Ye [are] not my people, [there] it shall be said unto them, [Ye are] the sons of the living God.

2 Kings 17:5

Then the king of Assyria came up throughout all the land, and went up to Samaria, and besieged it three years.

2 Kings 17:23

Until the LORD removed Israel out of his sight, as he had said by all his servants the prophets. So was Israel carried away out of their own land to Assyria unto this day.