Bible Questions and Answers

How do you explain Isaiah 9:5?

• Isaiah 9:5 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.
• Isaiah 9:5 NKJV For every warrior’s sandal from the noisy battle, And garments rolled in blood, Will be used for burning and fuel of fire.
• Isaiah 9:5 NIV Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.

If the KJV translation is correct and it refers to the return of Christ, then it means that the enemy will be destroyed with fire from heaven.

If the other translations are correct then it means that the bloodstained shoes and garments will be burned following the battle.

The Septuagint translation (the Greek version of the Old Testament) doesn’t help.

Isaiah 9:5 LXX For they shall compensate for every garment that has been acquired by deceit, and all raiment with {1 } restitution; and they shall be willing, even if they were burnt with fire. {1) Gr. reconciliation, or, exchange }

I prefer the KJV which seems to make better sense in the light of other scriptures.

Psalms 11:6 Upon the wicked He will rain coals; Fire and brimstone and a burning wind Shall be the portion of their cup.

Ezekiel 38:22 And I will bring him to judgment with pestilence and bloodshed; I will rain down on him, on his troops, and on the many peoples who are with him, flooding rain, great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.

I hope you find this helpful.

God bless,
Glenn