Isaiah 33:23

Authorized King James Version

Thy tacklings are loosed; they could not well strengthen their mast, they could not spread the sail: then is the prey of a great spoil divided; the lame take the prey.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִטְּשׁ֖וּ
are loosed
properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive
#2
חֲבָלָ֑יִךְ
Thy tacklings
ruin
#3
בַּל
properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest
#4
יְחַזְּק֤וּ
strengthen
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#5
כֵן
they could not well
a stand, i.e., pedestal or station
#6
תָּרְנָם֙
their mast
a pole (as a mast or flagstaff)
#7
בַּל
properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest
#8
פָּ֣רְשׂוּ
they could not spread
to break apart, disperse, etc
#9
נֵ֔ס
the sail
a flag; also a sail; by implication, a flagstaff; generally a signal; figuratively, a token
#10
אָ֣ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#11
חֻלַּ֤ק
divided
to be smooth (figuratively)
#12
עַֽד
then is the prey
booty
#13
שָׁלָל֙
spoil
booty
#14
מַרְבֶּ֔ה
of a great
properly, increasing; as noun, greatness, or (adverbially) greatly
#15
פִּסְחִ֖ים
the lame
lame
#16
בָּ֥זְזוּ
take
to plunder
#17
בַֽז׃
the prey
plunder

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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