Isaiah 22:8

And he discovered the covering of Judah, and thou didst look in that day to the armour of the house of the forest.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְגַ֕ל

H1540

And he discovered

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

אֵ֖ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מָסַ֣ךְ

H4539

the covering

a cover, i.e., veil

יְהוּדָ֑ה

H3063

of Judah

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

וַתַּבֵּט֙

H5027

and thou didst look

to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care

בַּיּ֣וֹם

H3117

in that day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הַה֔וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

נֶ֖שֶׁק

H5402

to the armour

military equipment, i.e., (collectively) arms (offensive or defensive), or (concretely) an arsenal

#10

בֵּ֥ית

H1004

of the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

#11

הַיָּֽעַר׃

H3293

of the forest

a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 22 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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