Isaiah 36:19

Authorized King James Version

Where are the gods of Hamath and Arphad? where are the gods of Sepharvaim? and have they delivered Samaria out of my hand?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַיֵּ֞ה
where?
#2
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
Where are the gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#3
חֲמָת֙
of Hamath
chamath, a place in syria
#4
וְאַרְפָּ֔ד
and Arphad
arpad, a place in syria
#5
אַיֵּ֖ה
where?
#6
אֱלֹהֵ֣י
Where are the gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#7
סְפַרְוָ֑יִם
of Sepharvaim
sepharvites
#8
וְכִֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
הִצִּ֥ילוּ
and have they delivered
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
#10
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
שֹׁמְר֖וֹן
Samaria
shomeron, a place in palestine
#12
מִיָּדִֽי׃
out of my hand
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People