Habakkuk 3:10

Authorized King James Version

The mountains saw thee, and they trembled: the overflowing of the water passed by: the deep uttered his voice, and lifted up his hands on high.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רָא֤וּךָ
saw
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
יָחִ֙ילוּ֙
thee and they trembled
properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi
#3
הָרִ֔ים
The mountains
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#4
זֶ֥רֶם
the overflowing
a gush of water
#5
מַ֖יִם
of the water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#6
עָבָ֑ר
passed by
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#7
נָתַ֤ן
uttered
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#8
תְּהוֹם֙
the deep
an abyss (as a surging mass of water), especially the deep (the main sea or the subterranean watersupply)
#9
קוֹל֔וֹ
his voice
a voice or sound
#10
ר֖וֹם
on high
elevation, i.e., (adverbially) aloft
#11
יָדֵ֥יהוּ
his hands
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#12
נָשָֽׂא׃
and lifted up
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

Analysis

Within the broader context of Habakkuk, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection