Isaiah 3:12

Authorized King James Version

As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַמִּי֙
As for my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#2
נֹגְשָׂ֣יו
are their oppressors
to drive (an animal, a workman, a debtor, an army); by implication, to tax, harass, tyrannize
#3
מְעוֹלֵ֔ל
a suckling
#4
וְנָשִׁ֖ים
and women
a woman
#5
מָ֣שְׁלוּ
rule
to rule
#6
ב֑וֹ
H0
#7
עַמִּי֙
As for my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#8
מְאַשְּׁרֶ֣יךָ
they which lead
to be straight (used in the widest sense, especially to be level, right, happy); figuratively, to go forward, be honest, prosper
#9
מַתְעִ֔ים
thee cause thee to err
to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both
#10
וְדֶ֥רֶךְ
the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#11
אֹֽרְחֹתֶ֖יךָ
of thy paths
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
#12
בִּלֵּֽעוּ׃
and destroy
to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights kingdom of God through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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