Isaiah 21:7

Authorized King James Version

And he saw a chariot with a couple of horsemen, a chariot of asses, and a chariot of camels; and he hearkened diligently with much heed:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְרָ֣אָה
And he saw
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
רֶ֣כֶב
a chariot
a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e., the upper millstone
#3
צֶ֚מֶד
with a couple
a yoke or team (i.e., pair); hence, an acre (i.e., day's task for a yoke of cattle to plough)
#4
פָּֽרָשִׁ֔ים
of horsemen
a steed (as stretched out to a vehicle, not single nor for mounting ); also (by implication) a driver (in a chariot), i.e., (collectively) cavalry
#5
רֶ֣כֶב
a chariot
a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e., the upper millstone
#6
חֲמ֖וֹר
of asses
a male ass (from its dun red)
#7
רֶ֣כֶב
a chariot
a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e., the upper millstone
#8
גָּמָ֑ל
of camels
a camel
#9
וְהִקְשִׁ֥יב
and he hearkened
to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken
#10
קָֽשֶׁב׃
diligently
a hearkening
#11
רַב
with much
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#12
קָֽשֶׁב׃
diligently
a hearkening

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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