Isaiah 58:4

Authorized King James Version

Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הֵ֣ן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#2
לְרִ֤יב
for strife
a contest (personal or legal)
#3
וּמַצָּה֙
and debate
a quarrel
#4
תָצ֣וּמוּ
Behold ye fast
to cover over (the mouth), i.e., to fast
#5
וּלְהַכּ֖וֹת
and to smite
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#6
בְּאֶגְרֹ֣ף
with the fist
the clenched hand
#7
רֶ֑שַׁע
of wickedness
a wrong (especially moral)
#8
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
תָצ֣וּמוּ
Behold ye fast
to cover over (the mouth), i.e., to fast
#10
כַיּ֔וֹם
as ye do this day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#11
לְהַשְׁמִ֥יעַ
to be heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#12
בַּמָּר֖וֹם
on high
altitude, i.e., concretely (an elevated place), abstractly (elevation, figuratively (elation), or adverbially (aloft)
#13
קוֹלְכֶֽם׃
to make your voice
a voice or sound

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People