Isaiah 8:20
Verse
Context
Darkness and Light
19When men tell you to consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, shouldn’t a people consult their God instead? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?20To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To the law and to the testimony "Unto the command, and unto the testimony" - "Is not תעודה teudah here the attested prophecy, Isa 8:1-4? and perhaps תורה torah the command, Isa 8:11-15? for it means sometimes a particular, and even a human, command; see Pro 6:20, and Pro 7:1, Pro 7:2, where it is ordered to be hid, that is, secretly kept." - Abp. Secker. So Deschamps, in his translation, or rather paraphrase, understands it: "Tenons nous a l'instrument authentique mis en depot par ordre du Seigneur," "Let us stick to the authentic instrument, laid up by the command of the Lord." If this be right, the sixteenth verse must be understood in the same manner. Because there is no light in them "In which there is no obscurity" - שחר shachor, as an adjective, frequently signifies dark, obscure; and the noun שחר shachar signifies darkness, gloominess, Joe 2:2, if we may judge by the context: - "A day of darkness and obscurity; Of cloud, and of thick vapor; As the gloom spread upon the mountains: A people mighty and numerous." Where the gloom, שחר shachar, seems to be the same with the cloud and thick vapor mentioned in the line preceding. See Lam 4:8, and Job 30:30. See this meaning of the word שחר shachar well supported in Christ. Muller. Sat. Observat. Philippians p. 53, Lugd. Bat. 1752. The morning seems to have been an idea wholly incongruous in the passage of Joel; and in this of Isaiah the words in which there is no morning (for so it ought to be rendered if שחר shachar in this place signifies, according to its usual sense, morning) seem to give no meaning at all. "It is because there is no light in them," says our translation. If there be any sense in these words, it is not the sense of the original; which cannot justly be so translated. Qui n'a rien d'obscur, "which has no obscurity." - Deschamps. The reading of the Septuagint and Syriac, שחד shochad, gift, affords no assistance towards the clearing up of any of this difficult place. R. D. Kimchi says this was the form of an oath: "By the law and by the testimony such and such things are so." Now if they had sworn this falsely, it is because there is no light, no illumination, שחר shachar, no scruple of conscience, in them.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
In opposition to such a falling away to wretched superstition, the watchword of the prophet and his supporters is this. "To the teaching of God (thorah, Gotteslehre), and to the testimony! If they do not accord with this word, they are a people for whom no morning dawns." The summons, "to the teaching and to the testimony" (namely, to those which Jehovah gave through His prophet, Isa 8:17), takes the form of a watchword in time of battle (Jdg 7:18). With this construction the following אם־לא (which Knobel understands interrogatively, "Should not they speak so, who, etc.?" and Luzzatto as an oath, as in Psa 131:2, "Surely they say such words as have no dawn in them") has, at any rate, all the presumption of a conditional signification. Whoever had not this watchword would be regarded as the enemy of Jehovah, and suffer the fate of such a man. This is, to all appearance, the meaning of the apodosis שׁהר אין־לו אשׁר. Luther has given the meaning correctly, "If they do not say this, they will not have the morning dawn;" or, according to his earlier and equally good rendering, "They shall never overtake the morning light," literally, "They are those to whom no dawn arises." The use of the plural in the hypothetical protasis, and the singular in the apodosis, is an intentional and significant change. All the several individuals who did not adhere to the revelation made by Jehovah through His prophet, formed one corrupt mass, which would remain in hopeless darkness. אשׁר is used in the same sense as in Isa 5:28 and Sa2 2:4, and possibly also as in Sa1 15:20, instead of the more usual כּי, when used in the affirmative sense which springs in both particles out of the confirmative (namque and quoniam): Truly they have no morning dawn to expect. (Note: Strangely enough, Isa 8:19 and Isa 8:20 are described in Lev. Rabba, ch. xv, as words of the prophet Hosea incorporated in the book of Isaiah.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
To the law, &c.--the revelation of God by His prophet (Isa 8:16), to which he directs them to refer those who would advise necromancy. if they speak not . . . it is because--English Version understands "they" as the necromancers. But the Hebrew rendered "because" is not this but "who"; and "if not," ought rather to be "shall they not"; or, truly they shall speak according to this word, who have no morning light (so the Hebrew, that is, prosperity after the night of sorrows) dawning on them [MAURER and G. V. SMITH]. They who are in the dark night of trial, without a dawn of hope, shall surely say so, Do not seek, as we did, to necromancy, but to the law," &c. The law perhaps includes here the law of Moses, which was the "Magna Charta" on which prophetism commented [KITTO].
John Gill Bible Commentary
To the law, and to the testimony,.... Kimchi takes this to be an oath, "by the law, and by the testimony", it is so and so; but Aben Ezra observes there is no instance of this kind in Scripture; it is a direction of Christ's to his disciples, to attend to the writings of Moses and the prophets, to search the Scriptures, as in Joh 5:39 and particularly what is before said in this prophecy concerning himself, the same is meant as on Isa 8:16. if they speak not according to this word; this sure word of prophecy, to which men do well to take heed, as to a light shining in a dark place, it being the rule of faith and practice, a lamp to the feet, and a light to the path: it is because there is no light in them; that is, in them that speak not according to it, meaning the Scribes and Pharisees; who, rejecting the written word, set up the traditions of the elders above it, and taught the people to walk according to them; and so were, as our Lord says, "blind leaders of the blind", Mat 15:14 or the words may be read, "if not"; if they will not regard the Scriptures, and the evangelical doctrine in them, and the testimony they give concerning Christ; "let them speak according to this word"; or instruction, and counsel, they have from the Scribes and Pharisees: "in which there is no light" (b); but the darkness of ignorance, infidelity, superstition, and will worship; or "no morning"; but a night of Jewish darkness, even though the sun of righteousness was risen, and the dayspring from on high had visited the earth; yet they had received no light and knowledge from him, which was their condemnation, Joh 1:4, Joh 3:19 or thus, "to the law, and to the testimony, though they may say after this manner, there is no light in it" (c); in the law and testimony, preferring the traditions, decisions, and determinations of their doctors above it. Noldhius (d) renders the words thus, "seeing they speak not according to this word, certainly they shall have no morning"; that is, seeing the seducers and false teachers, in the preceding verse Isa 8:19, speak not according to the word of God, and testimony of Jesus, they shall have no morning of light and joy, of grace and comfort, or any spiritual felicity; Christ will be no morning to them, but they will continue in their dark, benighted, and miserable condition, described in the following verse. (b) "sin minus, dicant secundum verbum istud, cui mon est aurora", Piscator. So Sanctius. (c) "Licet ipsi dicent, in verbis legis, nihil lucis esse", Oleaster in Bootius. (d) Ebr. Part. Concord. p. 374. No. 1302.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:20 God gave instructions and teachings through the law and through his prophets, such as Isaiah (see 8:16).
Isaiah 8:20
Darkness and Light
19When men tell you to consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, shouldn’t a people consult their God instead? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?20To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Word
By A.W. Tozer4.3K41:55Word Of GodPSA 119:1PSA 119:105PSA 119:174PSA 119:176ISA 8:20MAT 6:33JHN 14:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance and power of the Holy Scriptures. He compares trying to celebrate the Scriptures in a short amount of time to summarizing a tour of Europe or a visit to an art museum in just half an hour. The speaker highlights that God's voice is what created and sustains the world, and it is the speaking voice of God that keeps everything alive. He encourages listeners to rely on the Bible as the ultimate authority and not be swayed by charismatic personalities or beliefs that are not found in the Scriptures.
Election
By C.H. Spurgeon3.2K58:25PRO 18:13ISA 8:20JER 36:23ROM 3:24ROM 11:42TI 2:152TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of turning Scripture into practical discourse under the influence of God's Spirit. He encourages the audience to set aside their prejudices and listen with an open mind. The sermon focuses on the doctrine of God's immutable love and the concept of God choosing individuals for salvation. The preacher aims to prove the truth of this doctrine and explore its effects and tendencies, addressing different positions and stations within the Church.
(Prophecy) Clarifications About Prophecy
By Zac Poonen2.7K57:29ISA 8:201CO 14:29EPH 1:31TH 5:201JN 4:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of prophecy in warning God's people ahead of time. He encourages the audience to seek the gift of prophecy from God, so they can meet the needs of others. The speaker also addresses the issue of falling down and showing feet to God, stating that it is an insult and not the correct way to approach God. He emphasizes the need for pastors and elders in the church, but also highlights the importance of the entire body fulfilling their functions. The speaker also mentions that those who preach the gospel can receive financial support, as ordained by the Lord. Lastly, he emphasizes the need for discernment and judgment when it comes to prophecy, using the example of the Bereans in Acts 17. He compares the exercise of spiritual gifts to electricity, stating that while it is useful, it must be used according to the laws and principles set by God.
The Shepherds Authority
By Colin Anderson1.5K00:00AuthorityPSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 8:20MAT 4:4JHN 5:312TI 3:132TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker divides the topic into four paragraphs. The first paragraph focuses on what the scripture says about itself, emphasizing the importance of the Bible's own testimony. The second paragraph addresses the irrationality and inconsistency of questioning the inspiration and authority of scripture for Christians. The third paragraph discusses the limited function of extra biblical information. Finally, the fourth paragraph briefly introduces the topic of inspiration and authority, particularly in relation to shepherding, and invites further discussion and reaction from the audience. The speaker also recommends a book called "Inherency" edited by Norman Giesler, which supports the points made in the sermon.
Pilgrim's Progress - Part 3
By Alfred P. Gibbs1.5K56:38Pilgrim's ProgressPSA 119:105ISA 8:20ISA 61:10MAT 6:33ACT 13:382TI 3:161JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of having patience and putting faith and trust in the Lord Jesus. He emphasizes that salvation comes through God's grace and that believers are kept by God's power, enjoying spiritual pleasures as children of God. The preacher then shares a story about a man trying to put out a fire with buckets of water, but instead, the fire grows hotter and higher. The interpreter explains that the fire represents the burden of sin, and the man's futile attempts to put it out symbolize human efforts to overcome sin. The sermon concludes with a description of the pilgrim's progress, where the burden of sin is finally lifted, and the pilgrim looks forward to being with Christ.
Go All the Way Whit Jesus (Voice Only)
By Compilations1.1K20:34CompilationNUM 14:6PSA 119:105PSA 119:130ISA 8:20ACT 2:37ROM 6:42TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of relying solely on the Bible for guidance and belief. He urges the audience to not be swayed by charismatic personalities or persuasive voices, but to always check with the Word of God. The preacher highlights the need for the glory of God to be reflected in our attitudes and personalities, through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. He also emphasizes the importance of keeping and obeying the Word of God, rather than just preaching it. Lastly, the preacher reminds the audience of the urgency to reach out to the world and share the message of salvation, while also growing in hatred for sin and longing for the fulfillment of God's purposes in their generation.
The Secret Rapture: Is It Scriptural?
By Stephen Hamilton1.0K37:56Secret RaptureISA 8:20MAT 24:37MAT 24:40LUK 17:341TH 4:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of the second coming of Jesus and the various views and opinions surrounding it. He emphasizes the importance of not being deceived by false teachings and urges listeners to examine teachings to ensure they align with biblical principles. The preacher also mentions the different gospels mentioned in the Schofield reference Bible and criticizes the idea of a divided second coming into two stages. He concludes by stating that such a concept can only be known if taught by man, not by clear scripture.
The Carnal Christian
By Winkie Pratney0JOS 24:15PRO 14:12ISA 8:20MAT 6:24JHN 5:39ROM 8:11CO 3:52CO 13:5GAL 5:16Winkie Pratney delivers a powerful sermon challenging the church to reexamine their faith and truly surrender to Christ, emphasizing the danger of 'easy-believism' and the need for genuine conversion. He addresses the misconception of being a 'carnal Christian,' highlighting that true faith requires a heart fully devoted to serving Christ and not self. Pratney urges believers to align their lives with God's Word, warning against living in known sin and emphasizing the importance of genuine repentance and obedience.
God as a Factor in the Secular Affairs of Men?
By Art Katz0Peace and ReconciliationGod's SovereigntyGEN 9:27GEN 12:3PSA 24:1PRO 3:5ISA 8:20ISA 40:28Art Katz emphasizes the necessity of recognizing God's role in the secular affairs of men, particularly in the context of the land of Israel, which is often debated without acknowledging divine authority. He argues that the exclusion of God from political discussions leads to insincerity and unresolved conflicts, suggesting that true peace can only be achieved through submission to God's will. Katz challenges the audience to confront their disregard for God, asserting that the current crises may stem from humanity's failure to seek divine guidance. He calls for repentance and a return to God, who alone can provide justice and reconciliation in a world fraught with division and violence. Ultimately, Katz insists that acknowledging God is essential for any meaningful resolution to the issues facing nations today.
The Revelatory Light of Scripture
By A.W. Tozer0Divine RevelationThe Authority of ScripturePSA 19:7PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 8:20MAT 4:4JHN 17:171TI 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the absolute clarity of God's truth compared to the often ambiguous nature of human reasoning. He urges believers to align themselves with God's side, which is inherently good and holy, despite potential conflicts with societal philosophies. Tozer highlights the Bible as the definitive source of divine revelation, illuminating the path to understanding God's will and moral truth. He encourages a deep acquaintance with Scripture, asserting that it provides clarity and guidance in a world filled with confusion. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to God's truth as the only reliable foundation for moral living.
Hyper-Evangelism: Another Gospel, Though a Mighty Power
By John W. Kennedy0ISA 8:20MAT 7:20LUK 4:18JHN 3:3JHN 6:441TI 2:52TI 3:16HEB 6:4JAS 2:26John Kennedy of Dingwall, a champion of the Reformed faith in Scotland, warned against the dangers of a superficial presentation of the gospel and the lack of saving faith even under orthodox ministries. He emphasized the importance of a full proclamation of the biblical gospel, resisting the drift from the Westminster Confession and advocating for the true cooperation of church and state. Kennedy's words of caution remain relevant today, as he critiqued the hyper-evangelism movement that focused on excessive emotionalism and neglected essential aspects of biblical and Reformed doctrine, leading to a potential rise of antinomianism. His insights serve as a reminder to prioritize the glory of God, the sovereignty of God in salvation, the necessity of repentance, and the true understanding of faith in Christ.
The Saving Knowledge of the Scriptures
By Thomas Reade0PSA 119:15PSA 119:18ISA 8:20MAT 7:15MAT 7:20GAL 2:20PHP 1:212TI 3:16JAS 1:221JN 4:1Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of meditating on and praying for the saving knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. He emphasizes the need to rely on the pure, unadulterated Word of God for guidance and truth, rather than human writings or traditions. Reade urges believers to search the Scriptures diligently, test teachings against the Word of God, and be discerning of false prophets. He highlights the necessity of self-examination, humility, faith in Christ, and bearing fruits of righteousness as evidence of true belief and surrender to God.
A Man's Interest in Christ May Be Known
By William Guthrie0ISA 8:20MAT 25:12MRK 9:24JHN 8:44ROM 8:18ROM 8:382CO 13:52TI 1:122PE 1:101JN 5:13William Guthrie preaches about the certainty of knowing one's interest in Christ, emphasizing that it is attainable through examining oneself and aligning with Scripture. He highlights the importance of having a saving covenant with God, cautioning against false confidence and the narrow path to Christ. Guthrie stresses the need to allow Scripture to determine one's condition and the reasons why many struggle to have a clear knowledge of their state in Christ. He addresses common mistakes and hindrances in understanding one's interest in Christ, urging diligence, self-examination, and reliance on God's Word for clarity.
Signs of the Times
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Ministry of the Holy SpiritMaterialism vs. SpiritualityISA 8:20JHN 14:26ROM 8:51CO 2:14GAL 5:22EPH 1:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 3:151JN 4:1G. Campbell Morgan addresses the contrasting movements in society regarding materialism and the search for spirituality, highlighting how materialistic views have permeated life outside the Church, leading many to live in practical atheism. He notes a significant revolt against materialism, evidenced by the rise of spiritualism and theosophy, yet warns against the extremes of denying matter altogether. Within the Church, a wave of rationalism threatens spiritual vitality, but there is also a revival of interest in the Holy Spirit's ministry, which is essential for true transformation. Morgan emphasizes the importance of grounding spiritual truths in Scripture to avoid the pitfalls of legalism and misinterpretation. He calls for a return to the Word of God as the ultimate guide to understanding the Spirit's work and the spiritual realm.
Counterfeit Conversion - Part One
By Winkie Pratney0ISA 8:20Winkie Pratney delves into the topic of true conversion and challenges the church to reexamine their faith and motives. He emphasizes the importance of moving from a state of supreme selfishness to benevolence, highlighting that true Christianity is rooted in love for God and others. Pratney warns against a religion of fear, where outward actions may mimic true faith but lack genuine love and submission to God. He urges listeners to assess their spiritual standing in light of God's Word and to seek true conversion marked by a change of heart and purpose.
Truth Defended, Being an Answer to an Anonymous Pamphlet
By John Gill0AtonementElectionISA 8:20ISA 53:6JHN 3:16ROM 5:1ROM 8:29ROM 9:112CO 5:21EPH 1:3TIT 3:51PE 1:2John Gill defends the Supralapsarian doctrine against an anonymous pamphlet that critiques its foundational principles. He emphasizes the importance of scripture as the ultimate authority for examining doctrines, arguing that the pamphlet's author misrepresents the Supralapsarian view on election and predestination. Gill contends that God's choice of the elect is not based on their fallen state but rather on His sovereign will, and he critiques the pamphlet's failure to engage with key biblical texts that support the Supralapsarian position. He also addresses misconceptions about eternal justification and the nature of Christ's atonement, asserting that these doctrines align with the glory of God's grace and justice. Ultimately, Gill calls for a deeper understanding of these theological concepts rooted in scripture.
Men's Estimate of Human Nature
By Thomas Reade0PSA 27:8ISA 8:20LAM 3:251CO 2:14EPH 2:8HEB 10:23HEB 11:6JAS 4:82PE 3:9Thomas Reade preaches about the danger of extremes in men's estimate of human nature, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and humility before God. He warns against the pride and self-conceit that arise from self-ignorance, leading to a lack of sensitivity to eternal truths and the deadening effects of insensibility to spiritual matters. Reade highlights the need for constant prayer for the Holy Spirit's influence to maintain a solemn, practical, and lively frame of mind, guarding against the natural declension of the heart from God.
A Return to First Principles - Seven Reasons Why
By Hugh Kane0ISA 8:20MAL 3:10MAT 18:20ACT 24:141CO 11:242CO 3:172CO 6:171TI 4:11PE 2:5Hugh Kane preaches about the importance of returning to first principles and separating from unscriptural practices in the church. He emphasizes the need to question denominational names, the purpose of gathering, God's order of worship, the one-man ministry concept, the use of titles like 'Reverend,' the method of financing the Lord's work, and the growing apostasy in Christendom. Kane urges believers to come out from false teachings and practices, aligning themselves with God's truth and honoring His name above all else.
The Work of a Gospel-Minister Recommended to Consideration.
By John Gill0The Role of a MinisterFaithfulness in MinistryISA 8:20MAT 25:211CO 16:102CO 12:15EPH 4:12PHP 2:301TI 3:12TI 2:72TI 3:161PE 5:4John Gill emphasizes the vital role of a gospel minister, urging the newly ordained pastors to consider the weighty responsibilities of their calling. He highlights the importance of diligent study, prayer, and the faithful preaching of the gospel, while also acknowledging the challenges and discouragements they may face. Gill encourages the ministers to remain steadfast, reminding them that their work is honorable and that God will provide understanding and support in their ministry. He stresses the need for ministers to be well-versed in scripture and to administer the ordinances of the church with care and integrity. Ultimately, he reassures them of God's presence and the eternal rewards for their faithfulness in service.
The Marks of a True Church
By Francis Turretin0PSA 19:7PRO 29:18ISA 8:20JHN 8:31JHN 10:27ACT 2:421CO 2:15GAL 1:81TI 3:152TI 3:15Francis Turretin discusses the importance of identifying the true visible church by examining its marks, particularly focusing on the truth of doctrine and its conformity with the word of God through pure preaching and lawful administration of sacraments. He emphasizes the necessity of distinguishing the genuine society of pious Christians from heretical groups, highlighting the significance of joining a church that upholds the true teachings of Scripture for salvation. Turretin explains that the marks of the church, such as the preaching of the word and the administration of sacraments, are essential for recognizing the true church and avoiding false assemblies. He argues that the church's purity in doctrine and worship, rooted in Scripture, is a fundamental criterion for discerning the true church from heretical congregations.
- Adam Clarke
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To the law and to the testimony "Unto the command, and unto the testimony" - "Is not תעודה teudah here the attested prophecy, Isa 8:1-4? and perhaps תורה torah the command, Isa 8:11-15? for it means sometimes a particular, and even a human, command; see Pro 6:20, and Pro 7:1, Pro 7:2, where it is ordered to be hid, that is, secretly kept." - Abp. Secker. So Deschamps, in his translation, or rather paraphrase, understands it: "Tenons nous a l'instrument authentique mis en depot par ordre du Seigneur," "Let us stick to the authentic instrument, laid up by the command of the Lord." If this be right, the sixteenth verse must be understood in the same manner. Because there is no light in them "In which there is no obscurity" - שחר shachor, as an adjective, frequently signifies dark, obscure; and the noun שחר shachar signifies darkness, gloominess, Joe 2:2, if we may judge by the context: - "A day of darkness and obscurity; Of cloud, and of thick vapor; As the gloom spread upon the mountains: A people mighty and numerous." Where the gloom, שחר shachar, seems to be the same with the cloud and thick vapor mentioned in the line preceding. See Lam 4:8, and Job 30:30. See this meaning of the word שחר shachar well supported in Christ. Muller. Sat. Observat. Philippians p. 53, Lugd. Bat. 1752. The morning seems to have been an idea wholly incongruous in the passage of Joel; and in this of Isaiah the words in which there is no morning (for so it ought to be rendered if שחר shachar in this place signifies, according to its usual sense, morning) seem to give no meaning at all. "It is because there is no light in them," says our translation. If there be any sense in these words, it is not the sense of the original; which cannot justly be so translated. Qui n'a rien d'obscur, "which has no obscurity." - Deschamps. The reading of the Septuagint and Syriac, שחד shochad, gift, affords no assistance towards the clearing up of any of this difficult place. R. D. Kimchi says this was the form of an oath: "By the law and by the testimony such and such things are so." Now if they had sworn this falsely, it is because there is no light, no illumination, שחר shachar, no scruple of conscience, in them.
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
In opposition to such a falling away to wretched superstition, the watchword of the prophet and his supporters is this. "To the teaching of God (thorah, Gotteslehre), and to the testimony! If they do not accord with this word, they are a people for whom no morning dawns." The summons, "to the teaching and to the testimony" (namely, to those which Jehovah gave through His prophet, Isa 8:17), takes the form of a watchword in time of battle (Jdg 7:18). With this construction the following אם־לא (which Knobel understands interrogatively, "Should not they speak so, who, etc.?" and Luzzatto as an oath, as in Psa 131:2, "Surely they say such words as have no dawn in them") has, at any rate, all the presumption of a conditional signification. Whoever had not this watchword would be regarded as the enemy of Jehovah, and suffer the fate of such a man. This is, to all appearance, the meaning of the apodosis שׁהר אין־לו אשׁר. Luther has given the meaning correctly, "If they do not say this, they will not have the morning dawn;" or, according to his earlier and equally good rendering, "They shall never overtake the morning light," literally, "They are those to whom no dawn arises." The use of the plural in the hypothetical protasis, and the singular in the apodosis, is an intentional and significant change. All the several individuals who did not adhere to the revelation made by Jehovah through His prophet, formed one corrupt mass, which would remain in hopeless darkness. אשׁר is used in the same sense as in Isa 5:28 and Sa2 2:4, and possibly also as in Sa1 15:20, instead of the more usual כּי, when used in the affirmative sense which springs in both particles out of the confirmative (namque and quoniam): Truly they have no morning dawn to expect. (Note: Strangely enough, Isa 8:19 and Isa 8:20 are described in Lev. Rabba, ch. xv, as words of the prophet Hosea incorporated in the book of Isaiah.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
To the law, &c.--the revelation of God by His prophet (Isa 8:16), to which he directs them to refer those who would advise necromancy. if they speak not . . . it is because--English Version understands "they" as the necromancers. But the Hebrew rendered "because" is not this but "who"; and "if not," ought rather to be "shall they not"; or, truly they shall speak according to this word, who have no morning light (so the Hebrew, that is, prosperity after the night of sorrows) dawning on them [MAURER and G. V. SMITH]. They who are in the dark night of trial, without a dawn of hope, shall surely say so, Do not seek, as we did, to necromancy, but to the law," &c. The law perhaps includes here the law of Moses, which was the "Magna Charta" on which prophetism commented [KITTO].
John Gill Bible Commentary
To the law, and to the testimony,.... Kimchi takes this to be an oath, "by the law, and by the testimony", it is so and so; but Aben Ezra observes there is no instance of this kind in Scripture; it is a direction of Christ's to his disciples, to attend to the writings of Moses and the prophets, to search the Scriptures, as in Joh 5:39 and particularly what is before said in this prophecy concerning himself, the same is meant as on Isa 8:16. if they speak not according to this word; this sure word of prophecy, to which men do well to take heed, as to a light shining in a dark place, it being the rule of faith and practice, a lamp to the feet, and a light to the path: it is because there is no light in them; that is, in them that speak not according to it, meaning the Scribes and Pharisees; who, rejecting the written word, set up the traditions of the elders above it, and taught the people to walk according to them; and so were, as our Lord says, "blind leaders of the blind", Mat 15:14 or the words may be read, "if not"; if they will not regard the Scriptures, and the evangelical doctrine in them, and the testimony they give concerning Christ; "let them speak according to this word"; or instruction, and counsel, they have from the Scribes and Pharisees: "in which there is no light" (b); but the darkness of ignorance, infidelity, superstition, and will worship; or "no morning"; but a night of Jewish darkness, even though the sun of righteousness was risen, and the dayspring from on high had visited the earth; yet they had received no light and knowledge from him, which was their condemnation, Joh 1:4, Joh 3:19 or thus, "to the law, and to the testimony, though they may say after this manner, there is no light in it" (c); in the law and testimony, preferring the traditions, decisions, and determinations of their doctors above it. Noldhius (d) renders the words thus, "seeing they speak not according to this word, certainly they shall have no morning"; that is, seeing the seducers and false teachers, in the preceding verse Isa 8:19, speak not according to the word of God, and testimony of Jesus, they shall have no morning of light and joy, of grace and comfort, or any spiritual felicity; Christ will be no morning to them, but they will continue in their dark, benighted, and miserable condition, described in the following verse. (b) "sin minus, dicant secundum verbum istud, cui mon est aurora", Piscator. So Sanctius. (c) "Licet ipsi dicent, in verbis legis, nihil lucis esse", Oleaster in Bootius. (d) Ebr. Part. Concord. p. 374. No. 1302.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:20 God gave instructions and teachings through the law and through his prophets, such as Isaiah (see 8:16).