Isaiah 38:18

Authorized King James Version

For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

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

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

שְׁא֛וֹל

H7585

For the grave

hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates

תּוֹדֶ֖ךָּ

H3034

cannot praise

physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha

מָ֣וֶת

H4194

thee death

death (natural or violent); concretely, the dead, their place or state (hades); figuratively, pestilence, ruin

יְהַלְלֶ֑ךָּ

H1984

can not celebrate

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

לֹֽא

H3808

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

יְשַׂבְּר֥וּ

H7663

cannot hope

to scrutinize; by implication (of watching) to expect (with hope and patience)

יֽוֹרְדֵי

H3381

thee they that go down

to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau

#10

ב֖וֹר

H953

into the pit

a pit hole (especially one used as a cistern or a prison)

#11

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#12

אֲמִתֶּֽךָ׃

H571

for thy truth

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of truth connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about truth, 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

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

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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?

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