Isaiah 17:8

Authorized King James Version

And he shall not look to the altars, the work of his hands, neither shall respect that which his fingers have made, either the groves, or the images.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִשְׁעֶ֔ה

H8159

And he shall not look

to gaze at or about (properly, for help); by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed (as looking around in amazement) or bewil

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

הַֽמִּזְבְּח֖וֹת

H4196

to the altars

an altar

מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה

H4639

the work

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

יָדָ֑יו

H3027

of his hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

וַאֲשֶׁ֨ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשׂ֤וּ

H6213

have made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶצְבְּעֹתָיו֙

H676

that which his fingers

something to sieze with, i.e., a finger; by analogy, a toe

#10

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

#11

יִרְאֶ֔ה

H7200

neither shall respect

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

#12

וְהָאֲשֵׁרִ֖ים

H842

either the groves

asherah (or astarte) a phoenician goddess; also an image of the same

#13

וְהָחַמָּנִֽים׃

H2553

or the images

a sun-pillar

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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