Isaiah 36:21

But they held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was, saying, Answer him not.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽיַּחֲרִ֔ישׁוּ

H2790

But they held their peace

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

וְלֹֽא

H3808

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

תַעֲנֻֽהוּ׃

H6030

Answer

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אֹת֖וֹ

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

דָּבָ֑ר

H1697

him not a word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

כִּֽי

H3588

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

מִצְוַ֨ת

H4687

commandment

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

הַמֶּ֥לֶךְ

H4428

for the king's

a king

הִ֛יא

H1931

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

#10

לֵאמֹ֖ר

H559

was saying

to say (used with great latitude)

#11

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

#12

תַעֲנֻֽהוּ׃

H6030

Answer

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of peace 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 36 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?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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