Isaiah 44:16

Authorized King James Version

He burneth part thereof in the fire; with part thereof he eateth flesh; he roasteth roast, and is satisfied: yea, he warmeth himself, and saith, Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חֶצְיוֹ֙
part
the half or middle
#2
שָׂרַ֣ף
He burneth
to be (causatively, set) on fire
#3
בְּמוֹ
thereof in
in, with, by, etc
#4
אֵ֔שׁ
the fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#5
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
חֶצְיוֹ֙
part
the half or middle
#7
בָּשָׂ֣ר
flesh
flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
#8
יֹאכֵ֔ל
thereof he eateth
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#9
יִצְלֶ֥ה
he roasteth
to roast
#10
צָלִ֖י
roast
roasted
#11
וְיִשְׂבָּ֑ע
and is satisfied
to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)
#12
אַף
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#13
חַמּוֹתִ֖י
I am warm
to be hot (literally or figuratively)
#14
וְיֹאמַ֣ר
himself and saith
to say (used with great latitude)
#15
הֶאָ֔ח
Aha
aha!
#16
חַמּוֹתִ֖י
I am warm
to be hot (literally or figuratively)
#17
רָאִ֥יתִי
I have seen
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#18
אֽוּר׃
the fire
flame; hence (in the plural) the east (as being the region of light)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People