Isaiah 24:5

Authorized King James Version

The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָאָ֥רֶץ
The earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#2
חָנְפָ֖ה
also is defiled
to soil, especially in a moral sense
#3
תַּ֣חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#4
יֹשְׁבֶ֑יהָ
under the inhabitants
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#5
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
עָבְר֤וּ
thereof because they have transgressed
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#7
תוֹרֹת֙
the laws
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#8
חָ֣לְפוּ
changed
properly, to slide by, i.e., (by implication) to hasten away, pass on, spring up, pierce or change
#9
חֹ֔ק
the ordinance
an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
#10
הֵפֵ֖רוּ
broken
to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate
#11
בְּרִ֥ית
covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#12
עוֹלָֽם׃
the everlasting
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights covenant through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People