What does the quotation in Romans 11:8 say God gave Israel?
The quotation states God gave Israel a spirit of slumber, eyes that should not see, and ears that should not hear, even to this day. It is cited as Old Testament Scripture, probably Isaiah, and the explanation notes it remained true in Paul's day.
Les explains that when Paul writes 'it is written,' he is referring to the Old Testament, probably Isaiah. The quotation says God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, ears that they should not hear, even to this day. Les adds that Paul could write this today and it has not changed a bit; it was just as apropos when he wrote Romans. Then verse 9 goes back to the Psalms, quoting King David: 'let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumbling block, and a recompense.' Les ties this to God's table, where Israel was feasting and receiving blessings, but that exalted position became a snare and caused them to fall. He also warns Gentiles not to take such blessings and grace for granted, because the day is coming when it will be taken from us.
(According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.
More Questions
Is Israel's blindness described in Romans 11 still true today?
What Paul wrote about Israel's slumber and blindness is just as apropos and unchanged today as when he wrote the Book of Romans.