Isaiah 57:20

Authorized King James Version

But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָרְשָׁעִ֖ים
But the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#2
כַּיָּ֣ם
sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#3
וַיִּגְרְשׁ֥וּ
are like the troubled
to drive out from a possession; especially to expatriate or divorce
#4
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
הַשְׁקֵט֙
rest
to repose (usually figurative)
#6
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
יוּכָ֔ל
when it cannot
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#8
וַיִּגְרְשׁ֥וּ
are like the troubled
to drive out from a possession; especially to expatriate or divorce
#9
מֵימָ֖יו
whose waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#10
רֶ֥פֶשׁ
mire
mud (as roiled)
#11
וָטִֽיט׃
and dirt
mud or clay; figuratively, calamity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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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