Habakkuk 2:3

Authorized King James Version

For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ע֤וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

חָזוֹן֙

H2377

For the vision

a sight (mentally), i.e., a dream, revelation, or oracle

לַמּוֹעֵ֔ד

H4150

is yet for an appointed time

properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for

וְיָפֵ֥חַ

H6315

it shall speak

to puff, i.e., blow with the breath or air; hence, to fan (as a breeze), to utter, to kindle (a fire), to scoff

לַקֵּ֖ץ

H7093

but at the end

an extremity; adverbially (with prepositional prefix) after

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יְכַזֵּ֑ב

H3576

and not lie

to lie (i.e., deceive), literally or figuratively

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

#10

יִתְמַהְמָהּ֙

H4102

though it tarry

properly, to question or hesitate, i.e., (by implication) to be reluctant

#11

חַכֵּה

H2442

wait

properly, to adhere to; hence, to await

#12

ל֔וֹ

#13

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#14

יָבֹ֖א

H935

come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

#15

יָבֹ֖א

H935

come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

#16

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#17

יְאַחֵֽר׃

H309

it will not tarry

to loiter (i.e., be behind); by implication to procrastinate

Analysis

Within the broader context of Habakkuk, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Habakkuk Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?