Habakkuk 2:10

Authorized King James Version

Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned against thy soul.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יָעַ֥צְתָּ
Thou hast consulted
to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve
#2
בֹּ֖שֶׁת
shame
shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol
#3
לְבֵיתֶ֑ךָ
to thy house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#4
קְצוֹת
by cutting off
to cut off; (figuratively) to destroy; (partially) to scrape off
#5
עַמִּ֥ים
people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#6
רַבִּ֖ים
many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#7
וְחוֹטֵ֥א
and hast sinned
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn
#8
נַפְשֶֽׁךָ׃
against thy soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

Analysis

Within the broader context of Habakkuk, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Habakkuk.

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