Isaiah 19:15

Authorized King James Version

Neither shall there be any work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush, may do.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹֽא

H3808

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

יִהְיֶ֥ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לְמִצְרַ֖יִם

H4714

for Egypt

mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

מַֽעֲשֶׂ֑ה

H4639

Neither shall there be any work

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

אֲשֶׁ֧ר

H834

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

יַעֲשֶׂ֛ה

H6213

may do

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

רֹ֥אשׁ

H7218

which the head

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

וְזָנָ֖ב

H2180

or tail

the tail (literally or figuratively)

כִּפָּ֥ה

H3712

branch

a leaf of a palmtree

#10

וְאַגְמֽוֹן׃

H100

or rush

a rush (as growing there); collectively a rope of rushes

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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