The Sign of Maher-shalal-hash-baz. The date of the incidents is some time before the fall of Damascus in 732 B.C. The writing of the tablet may be as early as 735 B.C., the birth of the child as 734. The prophet is bidden take a large tablet, since it is to be used as a public placard, and write on it in common characters that all may read, For Maher-shalal-hash-baz. He is to take responsible witnesses, that when the prediction is fulfilled they may be able to assure the people that by this enigmatic inscription Isaiah foretold the speedy downfall of Syria and Ephraim. He is bidden call his son, born some time later, by the name on the placard, for before he utters a child's first words, Damascus and Samaria will be despoiled by the Assyrians.
Isaiah 8:1. pen of a man: mg., in common characters, is perhaps correct. The name means Swift is the spoil, speedy the prey, i.e. the spoliation of Damascus and Samaria will speedily take place.
Isaiah 8:2. Read and take (LXX).