Isaiah 29:5

Authorized King James Version

Moreover the multitude of thy strangers shall be like small dust, and the multitude of the terrible ones shall be as chaff that passeth away: yea, it shall be at an instant suddenly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיָ֛ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
כְּאָבָ֥ק
H80
dust
light particles (as volatile)
#3
דַּ֖ק
shall be like small
crushed, i.e., (by implication) small or thin
#4
הֲמ֣וֹן
Moreover the multitude
a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth
#5
זָרָ֑יִךְ
of thy strangers
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
#6
וּכְמֹ֤ץ
shall be as chaff
chaff (as pressed out, i.e., winnowed or (rather) threshed loose)
#7
עֹבֵר֙
that passeth away
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#8
הֲמ֣וֹן
Moreover the multitude
a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth
#9
עָֽרִיצִ֔ים
of the terrible ones
fearful, i.e., powerful or tyrannical
#10
וְהָיָ֖ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#11
לְפֶ֥תַע
yea it shall be at an instant
a wink, i.e., moment (used only [with or without preposition] adverbially, quickly or unexpectedly)
#12
פִּתְאֹֽם׃
suddenly
instantly

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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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