Isaiah 44:25

Authorized King James Version

That frustrateth the tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad; that turneth wise men backward, and maketh their knowledge foolish;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מֵפֵר֙
That frustrateth
to break up (usually figuratively), i.e., to violate, frustrate
#2
אֹת֣וֹת
the tokens
a signal (literally or figuratively), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc
#3
בַּדִּ֔ים
of the liars
a brag or lie; also a liar
#4
וְקֹסְמִ֖ים
and maketh diviners
properly, to distribute, i.e., determine by lot or magical scroll; by implication, to divine
#5
יְהוֹלֵ֑ל
mad
to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ
#6
מֵשִׁ֧יב
that turneth
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#7
חֲכָמִ֛ים
wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#8
אָח֖וֹר
men backward
the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
#9
וְדַעְתָּ֥ם
and maketh their knowledge
knowledge
#10
יְסַכֵּֽל׃
foolish
to be silly

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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