The Hebrew Word for 'Sign' and Its Impact on Isaiah 7:14

Isaiah 7:14 is one of the most debated verses in all of Scripture. Scholars from all backgrounds have provided countless works on the interpretation of this one verse. Yet there is no decisive material that confirms exactly what the verse means. The implications of this one verse carry into prophecy biblical inspiration biblical infallibility and numerous other issues. This book analyzes the way the writers of the Old Testament used the Hebrew wordot which is often translated sign. The author then takes that information and discusses the implications of that usage regarding Isaiah 7:14. For example in some instances the word referred to miraculous events. In others it may have referred to something symbolic. Throughout the work the writer analyzes various aspects of the usage of the word and seeks to determine if there is a relevant pattern to apply to the way the word is used in Isaiah 7:14. Higher criticism scholars continue to vehemently attack the authority of Scripture and Isaiah 7:14 often serves as their whipping boy. Thankfully Dr. Schutzius . . . provides a carefully researched exegetically and theologically sound apologetic response. This is a fine contribution. --Dr. Luke B. Bobo Curriculum Director and Resident Theologian BBT (Biblical Business Training) Lindenwood University Chesterfield MO Schutzius has made an important contribution to the field of Old Testament Studies by his examination of Isaiah 7:14. He has masterfully brought the word for sign to the forefront and given us a clearer understanding of this biblical concept and how it can apply throughout Scripture. I highly recommend this book for the serious student of the Bible. --Michael Spradlin President Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary I would like to endorse the work of Dr. Schutzius on Isaiah 7:14. It is careful and thorough and provides excellent insight with regard to the nature--natural or supernatural--of the word sign in that context. This work should be part of the discussion when it comes to interpreting this passage. --R. Kirk Kilpatrick Dean Master and Undergraduate Programs Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew Director of Practical Missions Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary Mark D. Schutzius II holds a PhD in Old Testament and Hebrew from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis TN. He is currently an adjunct professor at Union University in Jackson TN as well as the Associate Pastor at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church.