Isaiah 24:9

Authorized King James Version

They shall not drink wine with a song; strong drink shall be bitter to them that drink it.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בַּשִּׁ֖יר
with a song
a song; abstractly, singing
#2
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
לְשֹׁתָֽיו׃
They shall not drink
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#4
יָ֑יִן
wine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#5
יֵמַ֥ר
shall be bitter
to be (causatively, make) bitter (literally or figuratively)
#6
שֵׁכָ֖ר
strong drink
an intoxicant, i.e., intensely alcoholic liquor
#7
לְשֹׁתָֽיו׃
They shall not drink
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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