Isaiah 21:6

Authorized King James Version

For thus hath the Lord said unto me, Go, set a watchman, let him declare what he seeth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
כֹ֥ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#3
אָמַ֛ר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#4
אֵלַ֖י
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
אֲדֹנָ֑י
For thus hath the Lord
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
#6
לֵ֚ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#7
הַעֲמֵ֣ד
set
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#8
הַֽמְצַפֶּ֔ה
a watchman
properly, to lean forward, i.e., to peer into the distance; by implication, to observe, await
#9
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#10
יִרְאֶ֖ה
what he seeth
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#11
יַגִּֽיד׃
let him declare
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

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 sovereignty 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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