Yeshayah 7:12

12 But Achaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt Hashem.

Yeshayah 7:12 Meaning and Commentary

Isaiah 7:12

But Ahaz said, I will not ask
That is, a sign or miracle to be wrought; being unwilling to take the advice to be still and quiet, and make no preparation for war, or seek out for help from the Assyrians, and to rely upon the promise and power of God, and therefore chose not to have it confirmed by a sign; adding as an excuse, neither will I tempt the Lord,
by asking a sign; suggesting that this was contrary to the command of God, ( Deuteronomy 6:16 ) so pretending religion and reverence of God; whereas, to ask a sign of God, when it was offered, could not be reckoned a tempting him; but, on the contrary, to refuse one; when offered, argued great stubbornness and ingratitude, as Calvin well observes.

Yeshayah 7:12 In-Context

10 Moreover, Hashem spoke again unto Achaz, saying,

11 Ask thee an ot (sign) of Hashem Eloheicha; ask it either in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.

12 But Achaz said, I will not ask, neither will I tempt Hashem.

13 And he (Yeshayah) said, Hear ye now, O Bais Dovid; Is it a small thing for you to weary anashim, but will ye weary my G-d also?

14 Therefore Hashem Himself shall give you an ot (sign); Hinei, HaAlmah (the unmarried young virgin) shall conceive, and bear Ben, and shall call Shmo Immanu El (G-d is with us) [See extensive commentary in The Translator To The Reader, page vii].