Isaiah 21:15

For they fled from the swords, from the drawn sword, and from the bent bow, and from the grievousness of war.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

וּמִפְּנֵ֖י

H6440

and from

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

חֶ֣רֶב

H2719

sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

נָדָ֑דוּ

H5074

For they fled

properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away

וּמִפְּנֵ֖י

H6440

and from

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

חֶ֣רֶב

H2719

sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

נְטוּשָׁ֗ה

H5203

the drawn

properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive

וּמִפְּנֵ֖י

H6440

and from

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

קֶ֣שֶׁת

H7198

bow

a bow, for shooting (hence, figuratively, strength) or the iris

#10

דְּרוּכָ֔ה

H1869

the bent

to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow (by treading on it in bending)

#11

וּמִפְּנֵ֖י

H6440

and from

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

#12

כֹּ֥בֶד

H3514

the grievousness

weight, multitude, vehemence

#13

מִלְחָמָֽה׃

H4421

of war

a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

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