The Hebrew phrase Mahêr Shâlâl Châsh Baz, represented by H4122, is a symbolic name for the son of Isaiah. Its meaning is "hasting (is he (the enemy) to the) booty, swift (to the) prey." This unique name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting its specific prophetic purpose.
In the biblical narrative, H4122 is given through direct commands from the LORD. First, the LORD H3068 instructed Isaiah to write H3789 "Mahershalalhashbaz" on a great roll as a public witness before the child was conceived Isaiah 8:1. Following the birth of Isaiah's son, the LORD H3068 then commanded him to call H7121 his son's name H8034 Mahershalalhashbaz Isaiah 8:3. This two-step process establishes the name as a deliberate and divine prophecy.
Several related words are central to the context of this prophetic name:
- H3789 kâthab (to write): This action solidifies the name as a pre-ordained message. The LORD's command to write the name on a roll ensures the prophecy is recorded before it is embodied in the child Isaiah 8:1.
- H7121 qârâʼ (to call): This word signifies the act of formally giving the name. The instruction from the LORD was specifically to call his name Mahershalalhashbaz, linking the child's identity directly to the divine message Isaiah 8:3.
- H8034 shêm (an appellation, name): This term confirms that the phrase is not merely descriptive but serves as a formal name, a memorial of individuality and a sign from God Isaiah 8:3.
The theological weight of H4122 is found in its function as a direct communication from God.
- Prophetic Naming: The name itself is a living prophecy. By being commanded first to write H3789 the name and then to call H7121 his son by it, Isaiah participates in a symbolic act where a child's name becomes a divine oracle to the nation (Isaiah 8:1, Isaiah 8:3).
- Divine Sovereignty: The name originates not with Isaiah, but with Yᵉhôvâh H3068, who said H559 what to name the child. This underscores God's direct intervention and authority in revealing future events.
- A Living Sign: As a "symbolical name," the child Mahershalalhashbaz served as a constant, public reminder of God's impending judgment, as foretold by the meaning, "hasting to the booty, swift to the prey."
In summary, H4122 is a powerful example of a prophetic name in scripture. It is not merely a label but a message from God, written and proclaimed at his command. The name Mahêr Shâlâl Châsh Baz, given to Isaiah's son, stands as a testament to God's use of symbolic acts to communicate his sovereign plans and warnings to his people.
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