Haggai 1:4

Authorized King James Version

Is it time for you, O ye, to dwell in your cieled houses, and this house lie waste?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַעֵ֤ת
Is it time
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
#2
לָכֶם֙
H0
#3
אַתֶּ֔ם
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#4
לָשֶׁ֖בֶת
for you O ye to dwell
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#5
וְהַבַּ֥יִת
and this house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#6
סְפוּנִ֑ים
in your cieled
to hide by covering; specifically, to roof (passive participle as noun, a roof) or wainscot; figuratively, to reserve
#7
וְהַבַּ֥יִת
and this house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#8
הַזֶּ֖ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#9
חָרֵֽב׃
lie waste
parched or ruined

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Haggai. 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 Haggai 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