Habakkuk 2:14

Authorized King James Version

For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
תִּמָּלֵ֣א
shall be filled
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
#3
הָאָ֔רֶץ
For the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#4
לָדַ֖עַת
with the knowledge
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
כְּב֣וֹד
of the glory
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
#7
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
כַּמַּ֖יִם
as the waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#9
יְכַסּ֥וּ
cover
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#10
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#11
יָֽם׃
the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Habakkuk. The concept of glory reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection