Habakkuk 2:4
Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
In Habakkuk's immediate context, this verse contrasts Babylon's proud self-sufficiency with Judah's call to faithful endurance. The Babylonians trusted their military might, their gods, and their imperial ambitions. Yet God declares their pride will lead to their downfall (which occurred in 539 BC when Persia conquered Babylon).
For the faithful remnant in Judah facing exile, this verse provided crucial hope. Though circumstances seemed to contradict God's covenant promises, they were called to trust—to live by faith even when everything appeared lost. The exile would test whether Israel truly trusted God's character and promises or merely trusted in outward covenant signs (temple, land, monarchy).
The New Testament's use of this verse is profound. Paul (Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11) uses it to demonstrate that justification has always been by faith, establishing continuity between Old and New Covenants. Hebrews 10:38 quotes it in the context of endurance during persecution, encouraging believers to trust God's promises rather than shrink back. This single verse became foundational for understanding salvation history and the nature of saving faith.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 'living by faith' differ from merely believing certain doctrines about God?
- In what areas of life are you tempted toward self-sufficiency and pride rather than humble dependence on God?
- What does it mean that the righteous 'live' by faith—how is faith connected to true, abundant life?
- How does this verse challenge both legalism (trusting works) and antinomianism (faith without faithful living)?
Analysis & Commentary
Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. This verse stands as one of the most theologically significant statements in the Old Testament, quoted three times in the New Testament (Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38) and forming a foundation for the doctrine of justification by faith. The contrast is stark: the proud who trust themselves versus the righteous who live by faith in God.
"His soul which is lifted up" (עֻפְּלָה/uphelah) refers to the Babylonians whose pride and self-sufficiency make them morally crooked. Despite their military might and apparent success, they are "not upright"—their internal character is corrupt. Human pride, self-reliance, and the pursuit of power apart from God lead to spiritual death, regardless of outward success.
"But the just shall live by his faith" (וְצַדִּיק בֶּאֱמוּנָתוֹ יִחְיֶה/vetzaddik be'emunato yichyeh) presents the alternative way of life. The Hebrew אֱמוּנָה (emunah) means faithfulness, steadfastness, trust—a settled confidence in God's character and promises despite circumstances. This is not mere intellectual assent but a life posture, a way of being that looks to God rather than self.
"Shall live" (יִחְיֶה/yichyeh) indicates not just survival but flourishing, true life. While Babylon will fall, those who trust God will ultimately thrive. This points beyond temporal survival to eternal life—a theme the New Testament explicitly develops. Paul quotes this verse to demonstrate that salvation has always been by faith, not works. The Protestant Reformation recovered this truth, with Luther famously declaring justification by faith alone based on this text.