1)

Why did the Navi ask Achaz to request a sign?

1.

Rashi: I 1 know that you do not believe Hashem's word.

2.

Radak: He knew that Achaz did not believe Hashem's word. He himself proved this - he sent messengers to Melech Ashur, and asked him to save him from Melech Aram and Melech Yisrael (Melachim II, 16:7), and sent a bribe to him! Malbim (12) - this was a pitfall for him and Yehudah. This caused Melech Ashur to repeatedly come to Yehudah!


1

Since this was a Nevu'ah from Hashem, presumably, 'I' refers to Hashem. However, Rashi's words imply that 'I' refers to Yeshayah. (PF)

2)

Why did he say "Elokecha"? Achaz did not believe in Hashem!

1.

Radak: He is your G-d, and He worldly judge [and save] you from these kings. Believe in Him, for He is Elokim - Master, Supervisor and Judge!

3)

What is the meaning of "Ha'amek She'alah [Oh Hegbe'ah l'Ma'alah]"?

1.

Rashi: Descend deeply and ask. This is [a command,] like "Shima'ah? Selachah" (Daniel 9:19). Request a sign in the depths, to revive a Mes for you, or raise above, to request a sign in Shamayim.

2.

Radak: Ask anything that you want. Ha'amek is Makor (infinitive) conjugated like a command, like "Hashem Shima'ah Hashem Selachah."

3.

Radak citing Targum Yonasan: Ask that a miracle be done for you on the land, or you will see [a sign] in Shamayim. Radak - he translated 'miracle' regarding the land, for the sign that he gave to him in the land was via a miracle, that a baby had Da'as and recognition.

4.

Malbim: Ask that He change a matter of the Yesodos (foundations, or 'elements), or a sign in Shamayim, like the sun stopping. One who requests a sign, it is so he will believe, or so others will believe. If you request for yourself, it suffices in the land; it is good to minimize the miracle. If you ask so others will believe, [ask] above, so it will be publicized to the Rabim.

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