What Does Isaiah Mean by “Everlasting Father” in Isaiah 9:6?

In Isaiah 9:6, the prophet says, “He will be called the Everlasting Father.” If you’ve ever wondered how this can refer to Jesus, this post will help clarify the meaning behind this title.

I recently asked for your questions about the Trinity, and this was one of them. Over time, I’ll be releasing content that addresses all the questions that came in. Today, we’ll focus on what Isaiah 9:6 means when it calls Jesus the “Everlasting Father.”

The Trinitarian Perspective

As Trinitarians, we believe in one God who exists in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit. Some people look at Isaiah 9:6 and think this verse proves that Jesus is the Father, but this interpretation is incorrect for several reasons.

To fully understand the meaning of “Everlasting Father,” we need to take a closer look at the passage, reading both Isaiah 9:6 and the following verse for context.

A Closer Look at Isaiah 9:6-7

Here’s what the passage says:

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace, there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”

Some assume that “Everlasting Father” means Jesus is the Father, but that interpretation arises by focusing only on the term “Father” and neglecting the rest of the passage.

Understanding “Everlasting Father”

While “Everlasting Father” could be understood as referring to God the Father, contextually here, it has a better meaning.

In Biblical terms, the word “father” often refers to someone who rules over or creates something. In this case, “Everlasting Father” would be interpreted as, “the ruler or creator of eternity.”

Think of it this way: I created this ministry and post videos, articles etc on it, so in that sense, I am the “father” of this ministry. My wife, though could also be called the father.

But she would not be mistaken for me, because we are distinct. Similarly, this title does not suggest that Jesus and God the Father are the same person. Instead, it highlights Jesus is the ruler over eternity.

This interpretation fits better with the context of Isaiah 9:6.

Biblical Examples of “Father” as a Title

 The Bible often uses “father” as a title to describe someone who originates, or rules over something.

For example, in Genesis 4:20-21, we read about Jabal, who was the “father” of those who live in tents and keep livestock. His brother Jubal was the “father” of all who play the harp and flute.

In both cases, the title of “father” indicates where these activities or practices originated, not biological parenthood.

In the same way, Isaiah 9:6 does not claim that Jesus is God the Father, but rather that He is the ruler and originator of eternity.

Jesus as the Creator of Eternity

By calling Jesus the “Everlasting Father,” in Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah is emphasizing that the messiah (Jesus) is eternal—He rules over time and eternity. This concept is consistent with the nature of the Trinity, as both the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are described as eternal in Scripture.

Isaiah uses similar language later in his book. In Isaiah 57:15, it says:

“For thus says the high and lofty One that inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”

This passage further reinforces the idea that God, rules over, and inhabits eternity. It’s another way of saying God alone has authority over time and creation.

A Final Thought

In summary, Isaiah 9:6 is not saying that Jesus is the Father, but rather that He is the ruler and creator of eternity. This reflects the eternal nature of Christ, consistent with the teachings of the Bible about the Trinity. Jesus is eternal, just as God the Father and the Holy Spirit are.

If you have more questions, feel free to check our other content, or leave them in the comments or send an email. God bless, and thank you for reading!

WATCH THE VIDEO