Isaiah 21:14

Authorized King James Version

The inhabitants of the land of Tema brought water to him that was thirsty, they prevented with their bread him that fled.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִקְרַ֥את
to him
an encountering, accidental, friendly or hostile (also adverbially, opposite)
#2
צָמֵ֖א
that was thirsty
thirsty (literally or figuratively)
#3
הֵתָ֣יוּ
brought
to arrive
#4
מָ֑יִם
water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#5
יֹשְׁבֵי֙
The inhabitants
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#6
אֶ֣רֶץ
of the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#7
תֵּימָ֔א
of Tema
tema, a son of ishmael, and the region settled by him
#8
בְּלַחְמ֖וֹ
with their bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#9
קִדְּמ֥וּ
they prevented
to project (one self), i.e., precede; hence, to anticipate, hasten, meet (usually for help)
#10
נֹדֵֽד׃
him that fled
properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People