Habakkuk 1:17

Authorized King James Version

Shall they therefore empty their net, and not spare continually to slay the nations?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַ֥עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
כֵּ֖ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#3
יָרִ֣יק
Shall they therefore empty
to pour out (literally or figuratively), i.e., empty
#4
חֶרְמ֑וֹ
their net
physical (as shutting in) a net (either literally or figuratively); usually a doomed object; abstractly extermination
#5
וְתָמִ֛יד
continually
properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re
#6
לַהֲרֹ֥ג
to slay
to smite with deadly intent
#7
גּוֹיִ֖ם
the nations
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#8
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
יַחְמֽוֹל׃
and not spare
to commiserate; by implication, to spare

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection