Habakkuk 1:11

Authorized King James Version

Then shall his mind change, and he shall pass over, and offend, imputing this his power unto his god.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֣ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
חָלַ֥ף
change
properly, to slide by, i.e., (by implication) to hasten away, pass on, spring up, pierce or change
#3
ר֛וּחַ
Then shall his mind
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#4
וַֽיַּעֲבֹ֖ר
and he shall pass over
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#5
וְאָשֵׁ֑ם
and offend
to be guilty; by implication to be punished or perish
#6
ז֥וּ
imputing this
this or that
#7
כֹח֖וֹ
his power
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
#8
לֵאלֹהֽוֹ׃
unto his god
a deity or the deity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Habakkuk, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Habakkuk's theological argument.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection