Isaiah 44:18

Authorized King James Version

They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָדְע֖וּ

H3045

They have not known

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָבִ֑ינוּ

H995

nor understood

to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

טַ֤ח

H2902

for he hath shut

to smear, especially with lime

מֵֽרְאוֹת֙

H7200

that they cannot see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

עֵֽינֵיהֶ֔ם

H5869

their eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

מֵהַשְׂכִּ֖יל

H7919

that they cannot understand

to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent

#10

לִבֹּתָֽם׃

H3826

and their hearts

the heart

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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 44 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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