Isaiah 41:3

Authorized King James Version

He pursued them, and passed safely; even by the way that he had not gone with his feet.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִרְדְּפֵ֖ם
He pursued
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
#2
יַעֲב֣וֹר
them and passed
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#3
שָׁל֑וֹם
safely
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
#4
אֹ֥רַח
even by the way
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
#5
בְּרַגְלָ֖יו
with his feet
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda
#6
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
יָבֽוֹא׃
that he had not gone
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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