Isaiah 30:5

Authorized King James Version

They were all ashamed of a people that could not profit them, nor be an help nor profit, but a shame, and also a reproach.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כֹּ֣ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הֹבִ֔אישׁ

H3001

They were all ashamed

to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

עַ֖ם

H5971

of a people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

לֹא

H3808

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

לְהוֹעִ֔יל

H3276

nor profit

properly, to ascend; figuratively, to be valuable (objectively; useful, subjectively; benefited)

לָ֑מוֹ

לֹ֤א

H3808

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

לְעֵ֙זֶר֙

H5828

them nor be an help

aid

#10

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

#11

לְהוֹעִ֔יל

H3276

nor profit

properly, to ascend; figuratively, to be valuable (objectively; useful, subjectively; benefited)

#12

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#13

לְבֹ֖שֶׁת

H1322

but a shame

shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol

#14

וְגַם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

#15

לְחֶרְפָּֽה׃

H2781

and also a reproach

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation 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

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

How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 30 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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