Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Because the signification of the word Tsirim, is doubtful, the Greek translators have turned it, Ambassadors. But here it signifies anguish, as may sufficiently be perceived by the similitude of the woman in travail with child: which is afterwards added. For he here sets before them as it were in one word, that which he had told them before; to wit, that their hearts should melt,¹ and their hands should be weakened, because, saith he, anguish and sorrow shall surprise them. But whence comes this astonishment? From God. The ancients called this astonishment, a distracted fear. Thus called they the hobgoblins visions, and such like things which frighted men, albeit they had no inward occasion at all so to do. This was not altogether from the purpose; but yet notwithstanding they erred too grossly, because they understood not that such a thing proceeded from God.

BEcause the signification of the word Tsirim, is doubtfull, the Greeke translatours haue turned it, Ambassadours. But here it signifies anguish, as may sufficiently be perceiued by the similitude of the woman in trauaile with child: which is afterwards added. For he heere sets before them as it were in one word, that which he had told them before; to wit, that their hearts should melt,