Isaiah 29:21

Authorized King James Version

That make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of nought.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַחֲטִיאֵ֤י
an offender
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn
#2
אָדָם֙
That make a man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#3
בְּדָבָ֔ר
for a word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#4
וְלַמּוֹכִ֥יחַ
for him that reproveth
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#5
בַּשַּׁ֖עַר
in the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#6
יְקֹשׁ֑וּן
and lay a snare
to set a trap
#7
וַיַּטּ֥וּ
and turn aside
to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)
#8
בַתֹּ֖הוּ
for a thing of nought
a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain
#9
צַדִּֽיק׃
the just
just

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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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