Isaiah 41:28

Authorized King James Version

For I beheld, and there was no man; even among them, and there was no counsellor, that, when I asked of them, could answer a word.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֵ֙רֶא֙

H7200

For I beheld

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וְאֵ֣ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

אִ֔ישׁ

H376

and there was no man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

וּמֵאֵ֖לֶּה

H428

these or those

וְאֵ֣ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

יוֹעֵ֑ץ

H3289

even among them and there was no counsellor

to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve

וְאֶשְׁאָלֵ֖ם

H7592

that when I asked

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

וְיָשִׁ֥יבוּ

H7725

of them could answer

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

דָבָֽר׃

H1697

a word

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

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of divine revelation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 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 this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 41 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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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