Isaiah 28:20

Authorized King James Version

For the bed is shorter than that a man can stretch himself on it: and the covering narrower than that he can wrap himself in it.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
קָצַ֥ר
is shorter
to dock off, i.e., curtail (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative); especially to harvest (grass or grain)
#3
הַמַּצָּ֖ע
For the bed
a couch
#4
מֵֽהִשְׂתָּרֵ֑עַ
than that a man can stretch
to prolong, i.e., (reflex) be deformed by excess of members
#5
וְהַמַּסֵּכָ֥ה
himself on it and the covering
properly, a pouring over, i.e., fusion of metal (especially a cast image); by implication, a libation, i.e., league; concretely a coverlet (as if pour
#6
צָ֖רָה
narrower
to cramp, literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive
#7
כְּהִתְכַּנֵּֽס׃
than that he can wrap
to collect; hence, to enfold

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Isaiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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