Isaiah 45:4

Authorized King James Version

For Jacob my servant's sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְמַ֙עַן֙
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
#2
עַבְדִּ֣י
my servant's
a servant
#3
יַעֲקֹ֔ב
For Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch
#4
וְיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
sake and Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#5
בְּחִירִ֑י
mine elect
select
#6
וָאֶקְרָ֤א
I have even called
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#7
לְךָ֙
H0
#8
בִּשְׁמֶ֔ךָ
thee by thy name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#9
אֲכַנְּךָ֖
I have surnamed
to address by an additional name; hence, to eulogize
#10
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#11
יְדַעְתָּֽנִי׃
thee though thou hast not known
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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