Isaiah 51:14

Authorized King James Version

The captive exile hasteneth that he may be loosed, and that he should not die in the pit, nor that his bread should fail.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִהַ֥ר

H4116

hasteneth

properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)

צֹעֶ֖ה

H6808

The captive exile

to tip over (for the purpose of spilling or pouring out), i.e., (figuratively) depopulate; by implication, to imprison or conquer; (reflexive) to lie

לְהִפָּתֵ֑חַ

H6605

that he may be loosed

to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

וְלֹא

H3808

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

יָמ֣וּת

H4191

and that he should not die

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

לַשַּׁ֔חַת

H7845

in the pit

a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

יֶחְסַ֖ר

H2637

should fail

to lack; by implication, to fail, want, lessen

לַחְמֽוֹ׃

H3899

nor that his bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 51 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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