Habakkuk 3:12

Authorized King James Version

Thou didst march through the land in indignation, thou didst thresh the heathen in anger.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּזַ֖עַם
in indignation
strictly froth at the mouth, i.e., (figuratively) fury (especially of god's displeasure with sin)
#2
תִּצְעַד
Thou didst march through
to pace, i.e., step regularly; (upward) to mount; (along) to march; (down and causatively) to hurl
#3
אָ֑רֶץ
the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#4
בְּאַ֖ף
in anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#5
תָּד֥וּשׁ
thou didst thresh
to trample or thresh
#6
גּוֹיִֽם׃
the heathen
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

Analysis

Within the broader context of Habakkuk, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection