Isaiah 41:23

Authorized King James Version

Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods: yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַגִּ֙ידוּ֙
Shew
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#2
הָאֹתִיּ֣וֹת
the things that are to come
to arrive
#3
לְאָח֔וֹר
hereafter
the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
#4
וְנֵ֣דְעָ֔ה
that we may know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
אֱלֹהִ֖ים
that ye are 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
אַתֶּ֑ם
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#8
אַף
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#9
תֵּיטִ֣יבוּ
yea do good
to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)
#10
וְתָרֵ֔עוּ
or do evil
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
#11
וְנִשְׁתָּ֖עָה
that we may be dismayed
to gaze at or about (properly, for help); by implication, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed (as looking around in amazement) or bewil
#12
וְנִרְאֶ֥
and behold
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#13
יַחְדָּֽו׃
it together
properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People