Isaiah 13:20

Authorized King James Version

It shall never be inhabited, neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to generation: neither shall the Arabian pitch tent there; neither shall the shepherds make their fold there.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תֵשֵׁ֣ב

H3427

be inhabited

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

לָנֶ֔צַח

H5331

It shall never

properly, a goal, i.e., the bright object at a distance travelled towards; hence (figuratively), splendor, or (subjectively) truthfulness, or (objecti

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִשְׁכֹּ֖ן

H7931

neither shall it be dwelt

to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)

עַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

וָד֑וֹר

H1755

in from generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

וָד֑וֹר

H1755

in from generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

יַהֵ֥ל

H167

pitch tent

to tent

#11

שָׁם֙

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

#12

עֲרָבִ֔י

H6163

neither shall the Arabian

an arabian or inhabitant of arab (i.e., arabia)

#13

וְרֹעִ֖ים

H7462

there neither shall the shepherds

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

#14

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#15

יַרְבִּ֥צוּ

H7257

make their fold

to crouch (on all four legs folded, like a recumbent animal); by implication, to recline, repose, brood, lurk, imbed

#16

שָֽׁם׃

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Isaiah.

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 Isaiah 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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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