Isaiah 41:17

Authorized King James Version

When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָעֲנִיִּ֨ים
When the poor
depressed, in mind or circumstances
#2
וְהָאֶבְיוֹנִ֜ים
H34
and needy
destitute
#3
מְבַקְשִׁ֥ים
seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#4
מַ֙יִם֙
water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#5
וָאַ֔יִן
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#6
לְשׁוֹנָ֖ם
and there is none and their tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#7
בַּצָּמָ֣א
for thirst
thirst (literally or figuratively)
#8
נָשָׁ֑תָּה
faileth
properly, to eliminate, i.e., (intransitively) to dry up
#9
אֲנִ֤י
i
#10
יְהוָה֙
I the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#11
אֶעֱנֵ֔ם
will hear
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,
#12
אֱלֹהֵ֥י
them I the God
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
#13
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#14
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#15
אֶעֶזְבֵֽם׃
will not forsake
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People