Isaiah 41:3
He pursued them, and passed safely; even by the way that he had not gone with his feet.
Original Language Analysis
יִרְדְּפֵ֖ם
He pursued
H7291
יִרְדְּפֵ֖ם
He pursued
Strong's:
H7291
Word #:
1 of 7
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
יַעֲב֣וֹר
them and passed
H5674
יַעֲב֣וֹר
them and passed
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
2 of 7
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
שָׁל֑וֹם
safely
H7965
שָׁל֑וֹם
safely
Strong's:
H7965
Word #:
3 of 7
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
אֹ֥רַח
even by the way
H734
אֹ֥רַח
even by the way
Strong's:
H734
Word #:
4 of 7
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
בְּרַגְלָ֖יו
with his feet
H7272
בְּרַגְלָ֖יו
with his feet
Strong's:
H7272
Word #:
5 of 7
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
Historical Context
Cyrus's rapid expansion of the Persian Empire (550-530 BC) was historically remarkable, conquering from the Aegean to the Indus River. This military success fulfilled God's purposes to free His people.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's ability to give success in unfamiliar paths encourage you in new ventures?
- What does Cyrus's divinely-granted victories teach about God's ability to accomplish His purposes?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Cyrus's conquests are characterized by supernatural speed and safety—he pursues enemies and passes unharmed. The phrase 'path with his feet he had not gone' emphasizes the miraculous nature of his swift victories over unfamiliar terrain. God grants success in unprecedented ways.