Symbolic Names

“Isaiah was the father of two sons, Maher-shalal-hash-baz (see 2 Nephi 18:3) and Shear-jashub (see 2 Nephi 17:3). Both names are symbolic of the Lord’s intentions for the northern kingdom of Israel. Maher-shalal-hash-baz is a Hebrew term meaning ‘to speed to the spoil, he hasteneth the prey’ (Isaiah 8:1d; see also 2 Nephi 18:1b). This name describes the events spoken of in 2 Nephi 18:4. The ten tribes were overrun and despoiled by the Assyrians when Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom, was besieged. Shear-jashub is a Hebrew term meaning ‘the remnant shall return’ (Isaiah 7:3a). This is a reference to the day when Israel will be gathered from her scattered condition. Thus Isaiah could report: ‘Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of Hosts’ (2 Nephi 18:18).” (Book of Mormon 121-122 Student Manual, p. 33)