Habakkuk 3:15

Authorized King James Version

Thou didst walk through the sea with thine horses, through the heap of great waters.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דָּרַ֥כְתָּ
Thou didst walk
to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow (by treading on it in bending)
#2
בַיָּ֖ם
through 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
#3
סוּסֶ֑יךָ
with thine horses
a horse (as leaping)
#4
חֹ֖מֶר
through the heap
properly, a bubbling up, i.e., of water, a wave; hence, a chomer or dry measure
#5
מַ֥יִם
waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#6
רַבִּֽים׃
of great
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Habakkuk. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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