Isaiah 3:17

Authorized King James Version

Therefore the Lord will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will discover their secret parts.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְשִׂפַּ֣ח
will smite with a scab
properly, to scrape out, but in certain peculiar senses (of removal or association)
#2
אֲדֹנָ֔י
Therefore the Lord
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
#3
קָדְקֹ֖ד
the crown of the head
the crown of the head (as the part most bowed)
#4
בְּנ֣וֹת
of the daughters
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#5
צִיּ֑וֹן
of Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#6
וַיהוָ֖ה
and the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
פָּתְהֵ֥ן
their secret parts
a hole, i.e., hinge or the female pudenda
#8
יְעָרֶֽה׃
will discover
to be (causatively, make) bare; hence, to empty, pour out, demolish

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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