Isaiah 48:5

Authorized King James Version

I have even from the beginning declared it to thee; before it came to pass I shewed it thee: lest thou shouldest say, Mine idol hath done them, and my graven image, and my molten image, hath commanded them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָאַגִּ֤יד
declared
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#2
לְךָ֙
H0
#3
מֵאָ֔ז
I have even from the beginning
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#4
בְּטֶ֥רֶם
properly, non-occurrence; used adverbially, not yet or before
#5
תָּב֖וֹא
it to thee before it came to pass
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#6
הִשְׁמַעְתִּ֑יךָ
I shewed
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#7
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#8
תֹּאמַר֙
it thee lest thou shouldest say
to say (used with great latitude)
#9
עָצְבִּ֣י
Mine idol
an (idolatrous) image
#10
עָשָׂ֔ם
hath done
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#11
וּפִסְלִ֥י
them and my graven image
an idol
#12
וְנִסְכִּ֖י
and my molten image
a libation; also a cast idol
#13
צִוָּֽם׃
hath commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

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 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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