Isaiah 51:21

Therefore hear now this, thou afflicted, and drunken, but not with wine:

Word-by-Word Analysis

לָכֵ֛ן

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

שִׁמְעִי

H8085

Therefore hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

נָ֥א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

זֹ֖את

H2063

this (often used adverb)

עֲנִיָּ֑ה

H6041

now this thou afflicted

depressed, in mind or circumstances

וּשְׁכֻרַ֖ת

H7937

and drunken

to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or (figuratively) influence

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

מִיָּֽיִן׃

H3196

but not with wine

wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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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