Isaiah 42:9

Authorized King James Version

Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָרִֽאשֹׁנ֖וֹת
Behold the former things
first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)
#2
הִנֵּה
lo!
#3
בָ֑אוּ
are come to pass
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#4
וַֽחֲדָשׁוֹת֙
and new things
new
#5
אֲנִ֣י
i
#6
מַגִּ֔יד
do I declare
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#7
בְּטֶ֥רֶם
properly, non-occurrence; used adverbially, not yet or before
#8
תִּצְמַ֖חְנָה
before they spring forth
to sprout (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative)
#9
אַשְׁמִ֥יע
I tell
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#10
אֶתְכֶֽם׃
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

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

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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