12 This sentence opens with the conjunction יַעַן כִּי (ya’an ki, “because”). Consequently some take vv. 5–6 with what precedes, as another reason why Ahaz might be tempted to fear (see v. 4). However, it is more likely that vv. 5–6 give the basis for the Lord’s announcement in vv. 7–9. The conjunction יַעַן כִּי here introduces the basis for judgment (as in 3:16; 8:6; 29:13), which is then followed by the formal announcement of judgment.

In other versions

Because Syria, with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, has devised evil against you, saying,

Aram, Ephraim and Remaliah’s son have plotted your ruin, saying,

For Aram, along with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, has plotted harm against you. They say,

Yes, the kings of Syria and Israel are plotting against him, saying,

Because Aram has plotted evil against you with Ephraim and the son of Remaliah, saying,

Because Syria, Ephraim, and the son of Remaliah,

Have taken evil counsel against thee, saying,

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