Isaiah 33:16

Authorized King James Version

He shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ה֚וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#2
מְרוֹמִ֣ים
on high
altitude, i.e., concretely (an elevated place), abstractly (elevation, figuratively (elation), or adverbially (aloft)
#3
יִשְׁכֹּ֔ן
He shall dwell
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
#4
מְצָד֥וֹת
shall be the munitions
a fastness (as a covert of ambush)
#5
סְלָעִ֖ים
of rocks
a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress)
#6
מִשְׂגַּבּ֑וֹ
his place of defence
misgab, a place in moab
#7
לַחְמ֣וֹ
bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#8
נִתָּ֔ן
shall be given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#9
מֵימָ֖יו
him his waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#10
נֶאֱמָנִֽים׃
shall be sure
properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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