Isaiah, a resident of the southern kingdom, is therefore loyal to King Ahaz. Isaiah’s “son” (later “sons”) is important in chapters 17–18. Whether they are his biological children is less important than the symbolism of their names. “Shear-jashub” means “a remnant shall return,” thus foreshadowing coming events. Surely a remnant will return, but not until there is destruction and a driving out that will require such a return. The presence of the name is important, not the presence of the son. The son comes so that the name can be brought as a powerful portent.