Isaiah 32:20

Authorized King James Version

Blessed are ye that sow beside all waters, that send forth thither the feet of the ox and the ass.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַשְׁרֵיכֶ֕ם
Blessed
happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!
#2
זֹרְעֵ֖י
are ye that sow
to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
מָ֑יִם
beside all waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#6
מְשַׁלְּחֵ֥י
that send forth
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#7
רֶֽגֶל
thither the feet
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
#8
הַשּׁ֖וֹר
of the ox
a bullock (as a traveller)
#9
וְהַחֲמֽוֹר׃
and the ass
a male ass (from its dun red)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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