Isaiah 40:21

Authorized King James Version

Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲל֤וֹא

H3808

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

תֵֽדְעוּ֙

H3045

Have ye not known

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

הֲל֣וֹא

H3808

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

תִשְׁמָ֔עוּ

H8085

have ye not heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

הֲל֛וֹא

H3808

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

הֻגַּ֥ד

H5046

hath it not been told

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

מֵרֹ֖אשׁ

H7218

you from the beginning

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

לָכֶ֑ם

הֲלוֹא֙

H3808

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

#10

הֲבִ֣ינוֹתֶ֔ם

H995

have ye not understood

to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand

#11

מוֹסְד֖וֹת

H4146

from the foundations

a foundation

#12

הָאָֽרֶץ׃

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Isaiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

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?
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 might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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