Isaiah 7:14 — "Virgin or Young Woman"

Whether the Hebrew word 'almah' in Isaiah 7:14 should be translated as 'virgin' (as in the Septuagint and Matthew 1:23) or 'young woman,' and the implications for the doctrine of the virgin birth.

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Overall consensus83/100

Christian Churches and Churches of Christ

Christian Churches and Churches of Christ

Adventist & Restorationist

Affirms

Virgin birth prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ; Isaiah seven foretold Messiah coming

Christian Churches and Churches of Christ affirm the virgin birth of Jesus as foundational to Christian faith. The interpretation of Isaiah 7:14 through Matthew 1:23 is standard: the prophecy predicts a virgin conception, which is fulfilled in Jesus' birth. The miraculous nature of the conception is understood as integral to Jesus' unique identity and salvific work. This affirmation aligns with broader Christian tradition and is not disputed within the Restoration Movement.

The virgin birth is understood as a sign of God's miraculous redemptive work and the reality of the incarnation. It supports the affirmation of Christ's divinity and His unique role as Savior.

Key Distinctions

Almah translation:
virgin birth as miraculous sign of incarnation
Prophecy fulfillment:
linked to Christ's unique redemptive role
Marian doctrine:

Scripture References

Sources

  • Stone-Campbell theology on incarnation
  • Christian Churches biblical teaching