Isaiah 16:12

Authorized King James Version

And it shall come to pass, when it is seen that Moab is weary on the high place, that he shall come to his sanctuary to pray; but he shall not prevail.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיָ֧ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
כִֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#3
נִרְאָ֛ה
And it shall come to pass when it is seen
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#4
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
נִלְאָ֥ה
is weary
to tire; (figuratively) to be (or make) disgusted
#6
מוֹאָ֖ב
that Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
הַבָּמָ֑ה
on the high place
an elevation
#9
וּבָ֧א
that he shall come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#10
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#11
מִקְדָּשׁ֛וֹ
to his sanctuary
a consecrated thing or place, especially, a palace, sanctuary (whether of jehovah or of idols) or asylum
#12
לְהִתְפַּלֵּ֖ל
to pray
to judge (officially or mentally); by extension, to intercede, pray
#13
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
יוּכָֽל׃
but he shall not prevail
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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