Isaiah 8:12
New International Version
“Do not call conspiracy everything this people calls a conspiracy; do not fear what they fear, and do not dread it.

New Living Translation
“Don’t call everything a conspiracy, like they do, and don’t live in dread of what frightens them.

English Standard Version
“Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread.

Berean Standard Bible
“Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread.

King James Bible
Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

New King James Version
“Do not say, ‘A conspiracy,’ Concerning all that this people call a conspiracy, Nor be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.

New American Standard Bible
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ Regarding everything that this people call a conspiracy, And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it.

NASB 1995
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it.

NASB 1977
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it.

Legacy Standard Bible
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy; And you are not to fear what they fear, and you shall not tremble.

Amplified Bible
“You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, And you are not to fear what they fear nor be in dread of it.

Christian Standard Bible
Do not call everything a conspiracy that these people say is a conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not be terrified.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Do not call everything an alliance these people say is an alliance. Do not fear what they fear; do not be terrified.

American Standard Version
Say ye not, A conspiracy, concerning all whereof this people shall say, A conspiracy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be in dread thereof.

Contemporary English Version
Don't call something a rebellious plot, just because they do, and don't be afraid of something, just because they are.

English Revised Version
Say ye not, A conspiracy, concerning all whereof this people shall say, A conspiracy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be in dread thereof.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
"Don't say that everything these people call a conspiracy is a conspiracy. Don't fear what they fear. Don't let it terrify you."

Good News Translation
"Do not join in the schemes of the people and do not be afraid of the things that they fear.

International Standard Version
"Don't call conspiracy everything that this people calls conspiracy, and don't fear what they fear, or live in terror.

Majority Standard Bible
“Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread.

NET Bible
"Do not say, 'Conspiracy,' every time these people say the word. Don't be afraid of what scares them; don't be terrified.

New Heart English Bible
"Do not say, 'A conspiracy.' concerning all about which this people say, 'A conspiracy.' And do not fear what they fear, nor be in dread.

Webster's Bible Translation
Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

World English Bible
“Don’t call a conspiracy all that this people call a conspiracy. Don’t fear their threats or be terrorized.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
“You do not say, A confederacy, "" To all to whom this people says, A confederacy, "" And its fear you do not fear, "" Nor declare fearful.

Young's Literal Translation
'Ye do not say, A confederacy, To all to whom this people saith, A confederacy, And its fear ye do not fear, Nor declare fearful.

Smith's Literal Translation
Ye shall not say, A conspiracy to all whom this people shall say a conspiracy; and ye shall not fear their fear, and ye shall not be afraid.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Say ye not: A conspiracy: for all that this people speaketh, is a conspiracy: neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

Catholic Public Domain Version
“You should not say ‘It is conspiracy!’ For all that this people speaks is a conspiracy. And you should be frightened or alarmed with their fear.

New American Bible
Do not call conspiracy what this people calls conspiracy, nor fear what they fear, nor feel dread.

New Revised Standard Version
Do not call conspiracy all that this people calls conspiracy, and do not fear what it fears, or be in dread.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Do not say, A conspiracy, as this people has said conspiracy, neither shall you worship their idols nor be afraid of them.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
“You shall not speak rebellion as this people spoke rebellion, and you shall not worship with their worship and you shall not tremble”
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Say ye not: A conspiracy, concerning all whereof this people do say: A conspiracy; neither fear ye their fear, nor account it dreadful.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Let them not say, It is hard, for whatsoever this people says, is hard: but fear not ye their fear, neither be dismayed.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
A Call to Fear God
11For this is what the LORD has spoken to me with a strong hand, instructing me not to walk in the way of this people: 12“Do not call conspiracy everything these people regard as conspiracy. Do not fear what they fear; do not live in dread. 13The LORD of Hosts is the One you shall regard as holy. Only He should be feared; only He should be dreaded.…

Cross References
1 Peter 3:14-15
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” / But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,

Matthew 10:28
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

Proverbs 3:25-26
Do not fear sudden danger or the ruin that overtakes the wicked, / for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from the snare.

Jeremiah 1:8
Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you,” declares the LORD.

Psalm 56:3-4
When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. / In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Luke 12:4-5
I tell you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. / But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him!

2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.

Psalm 118:6
The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?

Hebrews 13:6
So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

Romans 8:31
What then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Psalm 27:1
Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?

Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. / And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.


Treasury of Scripture

Say you not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear you their fear, nor be afraid.

not.

Isaiah 7:2-6
And it was told the house of David, saying, Syria is confederate with Ephraim. And his heart was moved, and the heart of his people, as the trees of the wood are moved with the wind…

Isaiah 51:12,13
I, even I, am he that comforteth you: who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die, and of the son of man which shall be made as grass; …

2 Kings 16:5-7
Then Rezin king of Syria and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel came up to Jerusalem to war: and they besieged Ahaz, but could not overcome him

fear ye

Isaiah 7:4
And say unto him, Take heed, and be quiet; fear not, neither be fainthearted for the two tails of these smoking firebrands, for the fierce anger of Rezin with Syria, and of the son of Remaliah.

Isaiah 57:9-11
And thou wentest to the king with ointment, and didst increase thy perfumes, and didst send thy messengers far off, and didst debase thyself even unto hell…

Psalm 53:5
There were they in great fear, where no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: thou hast put them to shame, because God hath despised them.

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Account Afraid Confederacy Conspiracy Declare Dread Dreadful Fear Fearful Holy Regard Terrorized Thereof Threats Whereof
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Account Afraid Confederacy Conspiracy Declare Dread Dreadful Fear Fearful Holy Regard Terrorized Thereof Threats Whereof
Isaiah 8
1. In Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz, he prophesies Syria and Israel shall be subdued by Assyria
5. Judah likewise for their infidelity
9. God's judgments shall be irresistible
11. Comfort shall be to those who fear God
19. Great afflictions to idolaters














Do not call conspiracy
The phrase "Do not call conspiracy" in Isaiah 8:12 begins with a divine directive that challenges the prevailing mindset of fear and suspicion among the people of Judah. The Hebrew word for "conspiracy" is "קֶשֶׁר" (qesher), which can also mean a treasonous plot or alliance. Historically, during Isaiah's time, the political landscape was fraught with alliances and conspiracies, particularly with the looming threat of Assyrian invasion. God is instructing His people not to be swayed by the fear-mongering and political machinations that were common. This directive encourages believers to rise above the earthly fray and trust in God's sovereignty rather than human schemes.

everything this people regards as conspiracy
The phrase "everything this people regards as conspiracy" reflects the pervasive anxiety and paranoia among the people. The term "this people" refers to the inhabitants of Judah, who were prone to see danger and betrayal in every shadow. This reflects a broader human tendency to succumb to fear and suspicion, especially in times of uncertainty. The historical context shows that Judah was under immense pressure, with threats from surrounding nations. God is calling His people to a higher standard of discernment, urging them not to be consumed by the same fears that grip the world around them.

Do not fear what they fear
"Do not fear what they fear" is a powerful exhortation to reject the common fears that dominate society. The Hebrew word for "fear" is "יָרֵא" (yare), which can mean to be afraid or to revere. In this context, it is a call to not be afraid of the same things that cause the surrounding nations to tremble. This is a reminder that the people of God are to have a different focus and foundation for their confidence. Instead of fearing earthly powers and conspiracies, they are to fear the Lord, which means to hold Him in reverence and awe, trusting in His ultimate control over all events.

do not dread it
The phrase "do not dread it" further emphasizes the call to reject the paralyzing fear that can come from focusing on worldly threats. The Hebrew word for "dread" is "עָרַץ" (arats), which implies being terrified or shattered. This is a call to emotional and spiritual resilience, encouraging believers to stand firm in faith. Historically, the people of Judah faced real and present dangers, yet God was calling them to a supernatural peace that comes from trusting in Him. This peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God in the midst of it, providing strength and courage to face whatever may come.

(12) Say ye not, A confederacy . . .--The words have been very differently interpreted. (1) The confederacy has been thought to be that between Syria or Ephraim, which had at first filled the people with terror, and then had seemed so powerful that men had been willing to join it (Isaiah 7:2; Isaiah 8:6). (2) Translating the word as conspiracy as in 2Kings 17:4--it was the word used by Athaliah when she cried, "Treason, treason!" (2Chronicles 23:13)--interpreters have seen in it the cry of the Assyrian alliance party against the prophet and his followers, whom they accused of conspiracy against their country, such as was afterwards imputed to Jeremiah (Jeremiah 37:14). (3) Others, following a conjectural amendment of the text, have read, "Ye shall not call everything a holy thing which this people calleth a holy thing," and find in the words a protest against the idolatrous reverence for that which has no real holiness, analogous to the warning against soothsayers or diviners in Isaiah 8:19; or possibly an allusion to such an object of worship as the brazen serpent, which Hezekiah had destroyed by Isaiah's advice (2Kings 18:4). Of these, (2) seems the most in harmony with the sequence of facts and thoughts. . . . Verse 12. - Say ye not. The transition from the singular to the plural is noticeable. It implies that Isaiah did not stand alone, but had followers - a "little flock," it may be - but still enough to give him the support of sympathy (comp. ver. 16). A confederacy; rather, treason, or conspiracy (see 2 Samuel 15:12; 1 Kings 16:20; 2 Kings 11:12; 2 Kings 12:20; Jeremiah 11:9; Ezekiel 22:25, etc.). The command is, not to call a course of conduct treasonable simply because the people generally so call it. Jeremiah was charged with treason for preaching the hopelessness of offering resistance to Nebuchadnezzar (Jeremiah 20:1; Jeremiah 26:8-11). Those who opposed an Assyrian alliance were probably now taxed with treason. To all them to whom; rather, everything which. Translate the entire clause thus: Call ye not conspiracy everything which this people shall call conspiracy. Neither fear ye their fear. They feared man (Isaiah 7:2). Isaiah and his disciples are commanded to fear no one but God.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
“Do not
לֹא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

call
תֹאמְר֣וּן (ṯō·mə·rūn)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural | Paragogic nun
Strong's 559: To utter, say

conspiracy
קֶ֔שֶׁר (qe·šer)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7195: An, alliance

everything
לְכֹ֧ל (lə·ḵōl)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

these
הַזֶּ֖ה (haz·zeh)
Article | Pronoun - masculine singular
Strong's 2088: This, that

people
הָעָ֥ם (hā·‘ām)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5971: A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flock

regard
יֹאמַ֛ר (yō·mar)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 559: To utter, say

as conspiracy.
קָ֑שֶׁר (qā·šer)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7195: An, alliance

Do not
לֹֽא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

fear
תִֽירְא֖וּ (ṯî·rə·’ū)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine plural
Strong's 3372: To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten

what they fear;
מוֹרָא֥וֹ (mō·w·rā·’ōw)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 4172: Fear, a fearful thing, deed

do not
וְלֹ֥א (wə·lō)
Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

live in dread.
תַעֲרִֽיצוּ׃ (ṯa·‘ă·rî·ṣū)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - second person masculine plural
Strong's 6206: To cause to tremble, tremble


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OT Prophets: Isaiah 8:12 Don't say 'A conspiracy! (Isa Isi Is)
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