Isaiah 53:1

Authorized King James Version

Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִ֥י
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#2
הֶאֱמִ֖ין
Who hath believed
properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen
#3
לִשְׁמֻעָתֵ֑נוּ
our report
something heard, i.e., an announcement
#4
וּזְר֥וֹעַ
and to whom is the arm
the arm (as stretched out), or (of animals) the foreleg; figuratively, force
#5
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
מִ֥י
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#8
נִגְלָֽתָה׃
revealed
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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