This is the word ... — The prophecy which follows is well characterised by Cheyne as one “of striking interest, and both in form and matter stamped with the mark of Isaiah.”
Concerning him. — Or, against him.
The virgin the daughter of Zion. — A poetic personification of place. Zion here, as Jerusalem in the next line, is regarded as mother of the people dwelling there. (Comp. 2 Samuel 20:19.) The term Virgin naturally denotes the inviolable security of the citadel of Jehovah.
Hath shaken her head at thee. — Or, hath nodded behind thee. (Comp. Psalms 22:8.) The people of Jerusalem nod in scorn at the retiring envoys of Sennacherib.