Isaiah 29:9

Authorized King James Version

Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הִתְמַהְמְה֣וּ

H4102

Stay

properly, to question or hesitate, i.e., (by implication) to be reluctant

וּתְמָ֔הוּ

H8539

yourselves and wonder

to be in consternation

וָשֹׁ֑עוּ

H8173

and cry

(in a good acceptation) to look upon (with complacency), i.e., fondle, please or amuse (self); (in a bad one) to look about (in dismay), i.e., stare

וָשֹׁ֑עוּ

H8173

and cry

(in a good acceptation) to look upon (with complacency), i.e., fondle, please or amuse (self); (in a bad one) to look about (in dismay), i.e., stare

שָֽׁכְר֣וּ

H7937

they are drunken

to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or (figuratively) influence

וְלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יַ֔יִן

H3196

but not with wine

wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication

נָע֖וּ

H5128

they stagger

to waver, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (as subjoined)

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

שֵׁכָֽר׃

H7941

but not with strong drink

an intoxicant, i.e., intensely alcoholic liquor

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 29 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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