Isaiah 5:23

Authorized King James Version

Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַצְדִּיקֵ֥י
Which justify
to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)
#2
רָשָׁ֖ע
the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
עֵ֣קֶב
for
a heel, i.e., (figuratively) the last of anything (used adverbially, for ever); also result, i.e., compensation; and so (adverb with preposition or re
#4
שֹׁ֑חַד
reward
a donation (venal or redemptive)
#5
וְצִדְקַ֥ת
the righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#6
צַדִּיקִ֖ים
of the righteous
just
#7
יָסִ֥ירוּ
and take away
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#8
מִמֶּֽנּוּ׃
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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