Isaiah 9:5 For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. The verse is more noteworthy for its connection than for its contents. As it stands it suggests a not very vivid contrast between two sorts of battle, which contributes nothing to the progress of the prophet's thought as well as quite misrepresents the original. The true rendering, according to all interpreters, is substantially this: "For all the armour of the armed man in the onset, and the garments rolled in blood, shall be for burning, shall be the food of fire." Thus understood, the verse admirably concludes the picture of prosperity given in the previous context by declaring that even the implements of warfare and the blood-stained clothing they cause shall be utterly consumed. Thus considered, the passage appropriately introduces the famous Messianic prophecy that follows: "For unto us a Child is born," etc. Such a wondrous triumph of peace can be adequately explained only by the appearance of One whose name is Wonderful. (T. W. Chambers, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. |
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