Isaiah 42:4

Authorized King James Version

He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹ֤א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יִכְהֶה֙
He shall not fail
to be weak, i.e., (figuratively) to despond (causatively, rebuke), or (of light, the eye) to grow dull
#3
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יָר֔וּץ
nor be discouraged
to crack in pieces, literally or figuratively
#5
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#6
יָשִׂ֥ים
till he have set
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#7
בָּאָ֖רֶץ
in the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#8
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#9
וּלְתוֹרָת֖וֹ
for his law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#10
אִיִּ֥ים
and the isles
properly, a habitable spot (as desirable); dry land, a coast, an island
#11
יְיַחֵֽלוּ׃
shall wait
to wait; by implication, to be patient, hope

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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